Have you heard from friends working in the tech industry that their jobs are not secure, or maybe you know someone who has recently lost their job?
With recent announcements of major layoffs from the big tech companies like Google, Amazon, and Microsoft, etc, a feeling of uncertainty for those working in the industry is to be expected. You are not alone in feelings of insecurity during a time of global economic uncertainty.
So, where does this leave you?
Rather than getting involved in the rumour mill, there are ways you can boost your work value. If a time comes that decisions around changes to the team must be made, you aren’t the first name that comes to mind.
There are a range of reasons leading to the biggest wave of layoff recently: general business downturn, anticipating a global recession, pressure from investors; or an AI that replaces part or all the work we are doing. Alternatively, a new business direction or opportunity could necessitate major changes to the team structure requiring entirely new skills and experience.
The good news is that team members who have demonstrated their value to the team, and to the organisation, are less likely to be on ‘the list’ when downsizing or a restructure is mooted. So how do you demonstrate your value to an organisation?
Below are some of the key requirements that Sharesource, and most businesses, expect and look for when evaluating a team members value in good times to promote, and in bad times to decide whose position is no longer needed.
Be a trusted and loyal member of the team
This is the person who works hard but is always ready to help others. If you are the person who checks up on a new member, making sure they are settling in. The person who attends social events, supports fundraisers, and is prepared to tidy up after a meeting or put the dishes into the dishwasher when others have not. These are things that stand out in a positive light.
Be open to change and show a willingness to learn
Change is inevitable especially in the Tech industry. The employee that embraces change is seen in a more positive light to the one that fights change. If you are seen to be the one that puts their hand up when new training is offered, or actively seeks out courses that will enhance their work output, you are more likely to be selected for upskilling if downsizing, or a team restructure is required.
Don’t be a part of the rumour mill
We all know people in the office who are seen as ‘gossips’, spreading the latest rumour, or at minimum hungry to be a part of the “have you heard” group. The team member who resists the gossip and instead asks for and supports the facts, will be the one whose maturity and shared values approach will be noticed.
I did all this but still my position was made redundant
After doing everything you could to demonstrate your value to the business, you do face a situation where your position is no longer viable, remember that it is never personal.
No business wants to face such a scenario and will have gone through much discussion looking for alternatives. A decision to make employees redundant is often the last resort to keep the business operating in the interests of all stakeholders.
However, by demonstrating work value during your time in the team, being asked to leave will more likely result in an excellent reference that places you in a stronger position when applying for another position. By concentrating on your achievements in the company and the value you provided to others rather than taking a ‘grudge’ against your prior employer will present you as a more valued future employee.
A job for life is not a thing
It is widely estimated that over our lifetime we will work in an average of 12 jobs. Most of these moves are made for reasons of career advancement or lifestyle choices. Businesses do not always thrive, global recessions hit, and new technology will change the way we conduct business resulting in some positions no longer being viable.
So, whether a change in your career is chosen by you, or forced upon you, remember to always move on with grace, determination and a positive attitude that it will all turn out right in the end.
Our Australian Tech partners are still actively seeking potential candidates with many opening positions! Shoot your CVs here to join our dynamic global team: https://sharesource.breezy.hr/