In print for more than two decades, the immensely popular Who Moved My Cheese is still a relevant book about change in the workplace. Yet, many aren't heeding the very simple lessons presented on those pages. It teaches that complacency with where our cheese is stored—i.e., our job—could result in hunger because the cheese can be moved at any time.
With the job market tight and a
sluggish economy, many people are scrambling to find their cheese, as it has
left the building. However, if we prepare ourselves for change, we are
nimbler to jump back into the job market and score.
For example, most likely,
we all know that automation and robotics changed the manufacturing
industry. And that was well before a global pandemic. Today, not
only must we focus on how business can be done effectively and efficiently
during the good and bad, but we should also consider what professions are more
mobile. When you consider both these variables, you might not have
to consider where your cheese has been moved.
What does this mean for
me? I still have a job.
With fewer jobs
available, we need to build our skill set for our current position, while
researching what our next job – or occupation – might be. Take advantage of
training offered by your employer. Always keep your resume and
"elevator speech" up to date. Pay close attention to trends in
our economy and job market. Know where the cheese may move next.
Additionally, picture
every day as if it is the first day on the job. Dress one step above your
position demonstrating to your employer that you are serious about your job. Be
a people person: pleasant, a problem solver, open to change, and always
communicating in a positive manner.
Laid-off? Network,
research, and study.
Begin by joining a
networking organization or just drop in on a mixer. Research companies of
interest to find out how to get an interview. Visit career centers, including
your alma mater, and job fairs. Virtually mingle with those in your field.
Additionally, there is a multitude of excellent websites with invaluable
job-seeking and skill-building information.
Some of these informative
sites help prepare job seekers with skill-building articles and tutorials –
including interviewing skills – while some match job seekers with
potential employers. Also, take advantage of online courses,
as many are free and self-paced. Building new skills might be essential for
finding and keeping a fresh piece of cheese.
Originally published on
Yahoo.
More
by Rebecca
Time to
Polish Our Professional Presence
Job Seeking
Using the Internet & Good Social Skills
How To Keep
Your Current Job, While Preparing for the Next
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