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Go On, Get Noticed
Three Ways to Stand Out From the Crowd
By ALISON ASHTON
When layoffs are imminent, it's tempting to lie low, but that's not a smart career move. Many employers make downsizing decisions based on perception. If you've made yourself invisible, you could get the ax — or miss a chance to move up. Here, three experts offer standout tips that work in good times and bad.
"Always be ready to give yourself a plug in an indirect, nonthreatening way. Keep your resumé current, even if you're not looking for a new job — the exercise will help keep you thinking about current accomplishments. And be prepared with a twenty-second speech on what you do, so if someone asks what you've been up to, you won't be at a loss for words."
—Rochelle Balch, author of Brag Your Way to Success.
"Build a rapport with people in different departments of your company to increase your competitive edge. In fat times, networking is viewed as just being social, but in lean times, it's crucial. You're less likely to be a victim of layoffs if you've already built an in-house network."
—Debra Condren, PhD, founder of SuperiorCareer.com and HumanInvestment.com
"Join — and get active in — professional organizations. This raises your visibility within the company and the industry, and reflects well on you and your employer too. It also helps to get involved in community organizations, because you can pick up leadership and management skills in a relatively low-risk environment."
—Dave Opton, founder and CEO of career management center ExecuNet.com
Originally published in Working Mother magazine, November 2001.
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