For the last few years, employment within the tech industry has boomed. There have been jobs for everyone at almost every level. Whether in-house or working from home. But times are changing. With the economy shrinking and Canada on the verge of another recession, we’re potentially approaching the end of the boom.
Jobseekers will face a fight for every position, and layoffs could be lurking ahead. So, what can you do to make sure that you’re on the ride side of the retrenchment process?
How to Protect Your Job Amidst Tech Company Lay-offs
Sometimes, no matter how talented you are or how much the business you work for values you, it’s simply impossible to avoid being laid off. Company restructuring is an essential part of almost every economic downturn and CEOs are faced with letting people go. For the most part, they don’t want to do it, but it’s an unavoidable part of the business. However, there are occasions when it’s possible to fight for your role. So, what are your options?
Should you stay or should you go?
Firstly, you need to think about how much you want the job. If you’re really happy, then that’s a no-brainer. But if not, now could be a great time to negotiate a killer severance package. Or to make your case for a promotion, because restructuring often means the creation of new roles. So, if you feel like you’ve got more to offer, or would like to explore different avenues within the company, let the management team know.
Make the case to be kept
If you are on the lay-off list, unless the business is closing down, you don’t always have to accept it without a fight. Just because jobs are being cut, it doesn’t mean that you have to be among the number. Be prepared to share your views with your manager. Take it to the CEO if you need to, but you need to show that you are part of the solution that will drive the business forward.
Showcase your strengths
When job losses are looming, it’s common to see employees taking their foot off the gas. Lethargy and pessimism are rife. Buck the trend. If you haven’t already, show your managers what you can do. Put yourself forward. Become a voice in the room. If you don’t want to directly approach the management team and ask to keep your job when the decision is made, make sure that they know what – who – they could be losing before you’re summoned for ‘the chat’. If you enjoy your job and think you’re good at it, you need to show the people who matter what you’re made of. And if you’re not sure what others think of your work, don’t be afraid to ask. That way you can act upon any feedback.
Attitude is everything
Similarly, you can be the most talented, experienced person in the world. However, this counts for nothing if you don’t have the attitude to match. When a business is going through a turbulent time, managers need a resilient team they can trust. People they can rely on to not only get the job done but to do it without making a big deal of things. Who can support them by bringing their own constructive ideas to the table? The ‘can-do’ attitude is a hackneyed phrase, but it still carries a lot of weight. More often than not, managers will value attitude more than experience. So, make sure that you’re creating the right impression.
Be prepared for recruitment
If all else fails and you need to move on, take time over recruitment prep. Carry your strengths and attitude into your resume. Fully research the business and make sure that you not only match the job requirements but the company culture and ideally, have solutions to any problems they may be facing. Be interview-ready – choose the right apparel and location, prepare relevant questions, understand everything the company does, and always ask for feedback after the event.
Holding onto your job in difficult conditions isn’t easy. But if you’re willing to fight for it, there is always a chance that you can make your case to be kept on. But it will take more than words. So, be prepared to show your employer what you’re worth.
Jenna Bayuk is the CEO of Kinship Kollective.
