Surviving the Job Market

The job market has been a tough place lately, with big tech companies downsizing and other industries following suit. Downsizing often leads to weaker organizations, impacts performance and productivity, and creates tribal knowledge gaps and loss of key cultural citizens. It also affects trust in leadership and can suffocate innovation. These changes can be especially challenging for those early in their careers. But fear not, there are steps you can take to weather the storm and come out on top.

Stay Positive and Avoid Negative Talk

Downsizing can be a difficult and emotional experience, but it's important to stay positive and avoid negative talk. Put your head down and focus on solving the hardest problems. Be the "go-to" person and be an inspiration for others. This is a time to shine, not a time to hide.

Seek Out Opportunities to Learn and Grow

Downsizing creates gaps in tribal knowledge and can negatively impact trust in leadership. But don't be one of the masses that distrusts leadership. Look for opportunities to learn something new and valuable, and seek out more responsibility. This is a time to buy career yardage, not to shrink back.

Stay Visible and Take on More Responsibility

Cutbacks on budgets and people can also stifle innovation. Don't let this be an excuse to become invisible. Instead, step forward and take on more. Be bold but not reckless. This is a time to grow, not to shrink.

Don't Give Up

Those early in their careers are especially at risk, especially if they've lived in a workforce isolated from in-person mentoring and relationships with senior people. But don't give up. If you need to take a role adjacent to what you just left, even if it pays less, do it. When the market comes back around, you'll have a story to tell of perseverance and personal growth.

Surround Yourself with Achievers

No matter where you are today, surround yourself with people who have plans and are pursuing their goals. Find those who are pushing the boundaries of their capabilities. Your perfect plans may not work out, but having the courage to set goals, pursue them, and learn something new along the way will be even better.

In conclusion, the job market can be a tough place, but it's important to stay positive, seek out opportunities to learn and grow, and surround yourself with like-minded people. If you don't have a career plan, one will be set for you. So why not take control and make the most of your journey?