How To Recession-Proof Your Career

With world markets fluctuating erratically and the United States on the verge of a potential recession that could affect the economic stability of the entire planet, what it boils down to for the average person is ensuring that you keep your job and continue to move up the ladder despite the odds. While many of the variables are out of our immediate individual control, there are things that we can do to help improve the odds of our career staying clear of the economic fallout.  Here are six tips to help you recession-proof your career.

1. Create additional revenue streams. No matter how safe you think your primary source of income is, creating additional, independent streams of revenue is a sure way to maintain your lifestyle and perhaps even add to your savings. You can utilize your additional skills via online services or even turn a hobby into a sales situation. We all have valuable skills outside of those that we present at work every day, it’s just a matter of recognizing and utilizing them.
2. Increase your online presence. Whether your job involves the internet or not, creating an online resume that lets potential employers know who you are and what you can do gives you an easy way to expose your skill-set. You never know; the next email in your inbox could be a better offer!
3. Expand your on-the-job visibility. If you are currently with a company that has the potential to take you places, make sure that your higher-ups recognize your current abilities and future potential. Go over and above whenever possible to indicate to your employer that you are one of the more valuable employees that they have.
4. Always network with your peers…ALWAYS! That lunch that you have with an acquaintance from a company in your field could be the difference between a job offer when you need it and unemployment. Get your business card out there, present an excellent attitude at all times and make sure that you leave a positive impression each and every time you shake a hand.
5. Invest in your education. Like it or not, employers are very interested in how we look on paper. If you are feeling insecure about your place in the global economy then it may be time to divert some of that entertainment fund into furthering your education. Don’t be intimidated; you don’t necessarily need to enroll at your local university! Courses in everything from CPR to business administration increase both your general visibility and your value to current and future employers.
6. Keep an eye on the job market at all times. Even if you are currently employed and see no end in sight it’s always a good idea to be aware of where your resume fits into the climate of available positions at any given time. Not only does this ensure that you are better prepared if the worst does happen, it keeps you open to the possibility of a better offer if one happens to come along!