With all the recent dot-com failures, IT layoffs, corporate mergers and reorgs, everyone wants to know what it means to them and most importantly if it will impact their job. Well, there's nobody who knows that answer for sure, but if you're in the high-tech industry, you should be aware of what's happening and know that layoffs can be a reality.
Here are some guidelines and helpful hints to get through this volatile time. If you're worried about layoffs or the future of your high-tech job, the first thing to do is don't panic because it won't help anything. Make sure you are informed about what's going on in your industry and your company, and keep your resume updated. Use this time to focus on improving your technical expertise and to acquire those skills that you don't have.
In the Silicon Valley, there are actually "pink slip" parties and online support groups for workers who have been laid off. People are coming together to help each other out during these times, and to offer advice and jobs as a community. The good news about all this is that there are IT jobs to be had, and the demand remains strong. If you are at a company where you suspect layoffs are going to occur, or the morale is just so bad you want to get out, make sure you think about it before you leap. It's very important to have a plan, and when you're out looking for a new job, it's much easier to get one while you're currently employed.
The following points will help you get through IT layoffs and corporate mergers. The most important thing you can do is be prepared in case something does happen, and know as much as possible about what's going on. Here are the guidelines and helpful hints --
- Don't Panic!
A majority of layoffs don't involve an actual person. The reality of a competitive business environment is that companies must cut costs, and salary expense is usually one of the biggest, so that translates into reducing the workforce. Many of the actual layoffs come by way of not filling vacant positions or delaying bringing on new hires that have been added into the budget. It is true that some workers will lose their jobs, but there are others who may be able to fill a vacancy in a different department within the same company. - Be Aware
What's going on in your region as far as jobs, unemployment, company start-ups and failures? Look at the Hot IT Job Markets for additional information about some of the regions across the United States. Are you in one of these areas? Do you have acquaintences who are looking for jobs because they've heard about layoffs? Recognize the signs of a bad situation, then take the necessary steps to ensure you will not be negatively impacted. - Be Informed
Make sure you know all there is to know about the health of your company and where it's headed. Talk to your supervisor about any concerns you may have. What's happening to the stock price, and what are industry analysts saying about it? Obviously, a company who's been unprofitable for consecutive quarters is at great risk. Not that your company will announce bankruptcy and close it's doors tomorrow, but these are indicators of problems that need to be addressed. - Be Prepared
Is your resume up-to-date? Do you know what jobs are available in your area? Even if you're not actively looking for a job, it doesn't hurt to browse the classifieds and surf online to check out what opportunities are available for someone with your qualifications. You'll find some great references at these job boards and employer sites. You should also take the time to dust off your resume and make sure your cover letter is ready to go so that you are prepared to react quickly if necessary. - Make Contacts
We've said it here before - one of the most important skills an IT professional can have is that of networking and communications skills. While you're surfing the online job listings, some of the best jobs are going unannounced because they are being filled by word-of-mouth. That's right, many jobs never even make it to the job boards because they are "pocket listing" that are filled because someone knows someone else. It's critical to the success of all IT professionals to network, meet people, make contacts and build relationships. You'll find that the high-tech world is sometimes smaller than you think, and you may meet your future boss at a seminar or class. - Improve Skills
Make yourself more marketable but advancing your technical skills and improving your "soft skills". Find out how to become a Certified Internet Programmer, QA Specialist or a Web Designer/Developer and work towards that goal. In addition to technical training, many IT professionals overlook the other training that can be beneficial in advancing their high-tech career - soft skills. Do you hate to give presentations? Not everyone likes it, but some have learned how to be effective and get through it. Take a public speaking class or communications seminar. Many employers also look favorably on IT professionals with project management skills and good "people skills", so don't overlook these when planning out your continuing education.
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