Everett, Wash.
Published: Wednesday, June 17, 2009

Don't let reorganization stress you out at work

By Eve Nicholas

 In an uncertain economy, many companies need to trim costs and improve the bottom line. To achieve this important goal, they make significant changes to the business structure. They pare down the work force, redefine job responsibilities or streamline operations to eliminate expensive and redundant processes.

If you hear anything about shuffling positions or revamping the structure of your company, even if it seems like a rumor, don't panic, worry or get caught up in the rumor mill. Instead, set aside a moment to steady yourself, and then get busy looking for ways to benefit yourself and the company. Right away.

Here are a few practical tips that may help you retain your job:

Be part of the solution. During periods of organizational restructuring and change, it's common for people to feel weighed down with stress and anxiety. In this situation, the best thing to do is remain calm. Focus every minute of your day on two things -- improving the culture and morale of the workplace, and enhancing your job performance.

If you maintain a positive attitude and consistently carry out your responsibilities, your efforts will alleviate some of the pressure for your boss and co- workers. You will also build trust with the people that surround you, an action that could increase your standing in the company, and potentially delay (or hopefully prevent) the downsizing of your position. Of course, solid working relationships often lead to referrals, which may be helpful you need to job hunt in the future.

Make yourself indispensable. Most companies reduce their staff as a last resort, after cutting other expenses from the budget. When forced to cut jobs, businesses often begin by consolidating and downsizing less essential positions. Indispensable employees usually hold on to their jobs during workforce reductions.

In this market, it's critical that you protect yourself from possible layoffs, even if you haven't heard rumors or received any official (or unofficial) notices about pending changes. Now is the time to review your daily responsibilities and ensure that you are making a substantial impact with your employer.

Think of opportunities that would make you more valuable to your company by adding dollars to the top or bottom line. If you can secure a few more clients to boost profits, initiate phone calls right away. If you have time at the end of your workday to prepare overdue spreadsheets for your boss, get started immediately.

Another way to become essential in the workplace is by solving a problem for the business. As a current employee, you already have the inside scoop on company challenges, and you know what situations need to be addressed. Maybe you can rebuild relationships with former clients, or restore profitability to under- performing accounts. Perhaps the team has a morale problem. What can you do to help?

Don't forget to take credit for your work, so the boss can appreciate your expertise and dedication to the company!

Plan for change. Businesses can surprise you. They may reorganize the work force without a single lost job. Or, they may downsize positions (even the most valuable workers) with no warning at all. Protect yourself. Update your resume. Reach out to your references. Network. Start today.



Eve Nicholas can be reached at Eve.GetAJob@gmail.com.
© 2009The Daily Herald Co., Everett, WA