10 tips for attaining Job Security

Some years ago I asked a candidate being interviewed for a role in an IT company what his career aspirations were. His answer, “I aim to be long term employable” was unusual, but I thought it was great.

What he was really saying was that he planned to ensure that no matter what happened, he could find employment doing the work he wanted to do. This for me is real job security.

So, what does it take to have long term employability?

• Some jobs will always be in demand – others become obsolete. Pay attention to what is happening in your chosen career and take appropriate action.
• Get the relevant professional qualifications. Sometimes this is a pre-requisite, other times it might just mean the difference between you getting an interview or not
• Maintain & develop your skills by taking on new projects or tasks, getting some training, working in different environments, etc
• Periodically test the market – go and talk to a recruitment consultant and find out how marketable you are. You don’t have to change jobs but at least you’ll have made a conscious choice
• Develop & maintain your network – internally and externally. The odds are your next role may be found via a contact.
• Never burn your bridges when you leave an organisation – you just don’t know when your paths might cross again.
• Adaptability – as changes occur (restructures, mergers, outsourcing, etc) consider what new opportunities they might bring to enhance your CV
• Flexibility – consider widening the geographical area in which you are prepared to work or consider different types of employment (temporary or interim contracts, part time, self employment)
• A positive attitude
• Commitment – it’s up to you!

We’re currently working on a new one day programme to help you take control of your employability. If you’d like to find out more, please get in touch.