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BOSTON - December 1, 2009 - As 2009 begins to draw to a close, with the unemployment rate now at 10.2%, both employed and unemployed people need to re-examine today's new career rules, according to ClearRock, an outplacement and executive coaching firm headquartered in Boston.
"What it means to have a career was changing even before the recession began two years ago. But the large numbers of jobs eliminated and people laid off have changed the career rules even more," said Annie Stevens, managing partner for ClearRock.
"Twenty years ago, you could expect a promotion if you were performing well. Ten years ago, employees were told there would be fewer promotions, with flatter, leaner organizations. Now, be prepared for jobs to be shorter in duration, with greater career volatility, and the need for secondary and ‘fallback' careers," added Greg Gostanian, managing partner for ClearRock.
Following are today's new career realities, according to ClearRock:
- Careers are more portable than ever, with people working at more jobs. "Expect to change jobs more frequently and have careers with more employers than in the past, including part-time, freelancing, or consulting work in-between full-time jobs," said Stevens. In 2008, the U.S. Department of Labor calculated that wage and salary workers spent a median of 4.1 years with an employer. "Although those figures have not been updated, with the loss of 7.3 million jobs since the recession began in December 2007, the average duration in a job has most likely decreased," Stevens added.
- Always be prepared for an unexpected career event. "Potentially negative career developments include losing your job due to a layoff or other workforce cutbacks; new or different job roles and responsibilities you don't like; a new boss you don't get along with; or a merger and acquisition that negatively affects you. Most employees today should anticipate leaving a job involuntarily at least once during their careers," said Gostanian.
- Have a career fallback plan prepared in advance, including consulting and self-employment. "While you are still employed, try doing some consulting work, or turning a skill or interest into a part-time business. This enables to you to make sure you like doing this if needed, and to see whether you can financially succeed at it," said Stevens.
- Networking should be continual, whether you are employed or unemployed. "Make new networking contacts throughout your career and nurture old ones. Build your career network by joining trade associations, and volunteering with civic and charitable groups. Use online networking and social media websites such as LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook, and others to continually expand your network," said Gostanian.
- Focus on perfecting your own personal "employment brand." "Your brand comprises what makes you different from others and the value you can bring to a potential employer, especially in the short-term," said Stevens.
- Keep your resume up to date. "Update your resume at least once a month, focusing on what you have accomplished for current and previous employers. Use quantifiable figures where possible, such as sales increases or reductions in expenses," said Gostanian.
- Don't be afraid to toot your own horn to let others know about your accomplishments. "One of the reasons people feel unappreciated at work is because they don't share compliments and praise they receive from customers and co-workers, such as positive letters and e-mails. Spread the word, but in a discreet way," said Stevens.
- Serve as a mentor or guide to newly hired or promoted employees. "Treat this as an opportunity to make a lasting good impression on those who some day may be important to your own career advancement," said Gostanian.
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