Dear Matt: I have a job I'm happy with, but with a recession forecasted, my job security doesn't seem as strong because my industry is facing a slowdown. I don't want to get caught by surprise and suddenly be without a job and desperately seeking a new one. Do you have any advice on how to prepare for a job when I have a job, even one I like?
Matt: In today's job market, I am a firm believer you have to be thinking one step ahead. What I mean by that is, you always have to be thinking about what your next career move will be - whether you are happy, employed or unemployed.
The first step is to update your résumé. With an up-to-date résumé, you can start looking for opportunities that you would like to pursue - now or in the future. By looking for a job while you have a job you are likely to be more selective and consider pursuing the right opportunity - not just any opportunity because you are desperate.
What else can you do?
Here are some tips:
Look at the current openings in your industry - do you have the skills you need to get hired? What new technology are employers asking for? What educational background is needed? What has changed since you last looked for a job?
Send out some cover letters and résumés to jobs that interest you - are you getting any interview requests? If not, maybe it's time to set up a better job search plan or improve your résumé and cover letters.
Work your network and contacts: Tap former employers and supervisors, co-workers, association members and others who may know of opportunities or job leads.
