Career recession management is on the minds of many who once took for granted the security offered by their current positions. As the recession deepens, an increasing number of companies must look more closely at cutting costs, and unfortunately that often means personnel cuts. Managing your career in a recession can be very stressful, but motivational speaker Joel Zeff has inspiring tips that can help you get through these tough times and end up on top.
Successful career recession management begins with trying to be more comfortable and to have fun at work. After all, a happy worker is more productive. Add that to the fact that managers often take into account attitude and the effect of any given worker on the morale of the group, and it's clear that to maintain a healthy, positive attitude is the first step to actively pursuing career recession management. Read on for key points from Joel Zeff on staying happy, motivated and valuable to your career.
With the recession in full swing, it is very easy to start worrying about your career. First, we need to stop worrying and relax. Give yourself a break. Stop letting the media feed your fears with the dreaded “r” word. Even during an “r” people work. Companies manufacture, transport, distribute, sell, market, advertise, produce, grow, research, develop, entertain, build and purchase. We have to figure out a way to do it without being cranky and stressed. Yes, we need to have more fun.
1. Be patient and positive in your tone of voice. Sounds simple, but a reassuring and patient tone in your voice will do wonders for teamwork and for helping reduce stress. You will rarely see a stressed, impatient person having fun. Watch people stand in line at the airport. The guy in the suit with three carry on bags and a phone hooked into the Matrix is not having fun. The guy in the Hawaiian shirt and hat made from palm reeds is relaxed and having fun. Same standing in line. Different attitude. As a manager, your employees will take their cues from you. If you are stressed and worried, they will be stressed and worried. Be positive. Be happy. Be the guy that brings blueberry muffins to work.
2. Take a break. Again, a simple idea but something that has very real results. Ever try and assemble something from the store? Ever get frustrated? Ever throw the directions across the room in frustration? Stop, take a break, and then reassess. Just a few moments away will give you the energy to move forward. Your employees need a break just like you. Take a minute out of the day and recognize a manager or employee for having fun and creating spirit. Give them a funny spirit trophy. As a surprise, take five minutes and have everyone walk around the building. Even a break that lasts only a minute will refresh our minds and give us the energy and motivation to take on the next task.
3. Think about what makes a great day at work. The next time you have fun at work, take a moment to reflect. Write down what happened that made the day so great. What did you do? What did you say? You now have your “great day” list. You know what you need. Work toward it. Fun is different for everyone. Remember the kid in your high school algebra class who got really excited when he solved a complex math problem? That is fun for him. For me, math is the equivalent of jury duty, going to the dentist, and cleaning the garage all in the same day. Take a few moments each day, gather your team, and ask your employees to share something on their “fun” list. Not only will the group enjoy the experience, but will gain appreciation for each other.
A recession is not an obstacle to reach your career potential. In fact, it is the perfect time to show off your skills and time to get even better results. Learning how to manage your career in a recession can help you reach your goals in the long run by teaching you how to stay focused and motivated, even during the most stressful times.
Career recession management isn't only about keepig your job, however. To grow in your career, it's often necessary to move positions as well. Joel Zeff also provides tips on staying focused in a job search as well. To learn more tips on managing your career in a recession, visit Joel’s blog.
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