He is my very close friend. We have been knowing each other for the last 5 years. We are still living very close to each other. But we are not communicating much now. To be honest, he is facing one big problem now. He is a plain graduate. Yes, he completed his B.Com in the year 2006. And now he is in Pune for job search. He wants me to help him out. Yes, he is calling me regularly on my cellphone and asking if I can help him out with his job search. He needs a job very badly. To be honest, he hails from a typical Indian middle class family and has not much financial resources to go for some higher studies or training programs. And he also wants a job of his type - HR related. Thats not a problem. But the real problem lies in the present scenario added with some more issues which I could relate with him only. I want to help him out as soon as possible but how ???

Let us face the reality. This recession has hit everyone very badly. So many people have lost their jobs and its going on still. It has changed lives of many but in a negative way. Now wonder, everyone is frustrated and haunted with the one and only one question - How long will all these continue? Well, there seems to be no perfect answer to that question. As per what I've been reading in the news, situation is not going to improve but its going to be more and more pathetic in the times to come. Let us hope for the best though.

Now, we know that people are loosing their jobs because of being laid off. And those who are new to the job market, they are finding it much more difficult. On a whole, its all about the survival of the fittest. So, what should exactly be done in these difficult times to secure oneself with a job? How to find a job during recession? Even if you are in a job, how to make sure that you won't get laid off? How and just how????

Well, I don't have any secret formula with me as such to help you with these problems. But I have certain tips for you which I believe if followed seriously can really help you out in these difficult times. To begin with, let us talk about new job-seekers in recession. New job seekers, what you can do is -
  • Re-skill- Learn new skills for areas where there are still shortages and vacancies. Yes, re skilling is very important. I have found many people failing just because they don't add enough skills to their existing skills.
  • Equip Yourself with Transferable Skills - Make sure you clearly identify your skills so that you can demonstrate your adaptability, particularly relevant if considering a move between public and private sectors.
  • Prepare Effective Resume - No doubt resumes are important. Make sure they are carefully tailored for each role and targeted towards the competencies. I would better advise you to prepare it as professionally as possible. Don't stick with those messy and incomplete data. Fill as much detail as possible and make sure that its all relevant.
  • Be Flexible - Be ready to accept a lower salary package or a change in location or a wider job remit. Salary is something which I believe you shouldn't give much importance in these difficult times. Obviously, its important but I would better advise you to put it down for the moment and look for the much needed experience. It will surely help you out in the long run.
(* Some of the points above may be only important for those searching jobs in India )

That was all about new job seekers. Now, for those already into jobs, what can they do to make sure their position is secured. Follow these -
  • Upskill - Use all available resources (formal and informal training) to make sure that you have the necessary skills to excel in your job. Once again, it all comes to skills. Being jack of all trades is good but try to be master also. Get equipped with as much skills as possible.
  • Upgrade - This is possible if you initiate discussions with your line managers and discuss career development opportunities. Upgrading will ensure that you are fit for any desired role in near future.
  • Network - Use every opportunity to make contacts and learn about new opportunities. Believe me, making contacts is one of the things that you should always give priority. It can really help you out. It can act as a valuable reference which may land you up with a dream job in near future..who knows :)
  • Be Proactive - Examine ways in which can take an extra responsibility and delve into other areas of business. This is very important. If you can take any extra responsibility, it can really help you out in the long run.
In addition to above points, there are some more things that you should pay attention to -
  • Don't be fearful about losing your job
  • Don't spread uncertainty and fuel rumors
  • Don't be a job hopper
  • Don't downplay/pull down your colleagues
Well, I am damn sure that if you follow these points seriously, you won't have the fear again regarding your job security. Its now upto you to consider it or leave it.