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The best job search advice for currently employed workers is often how to keep and improve your present job. In times when “recession” is on everyone’s minds, and most news people’s lips, you might want to heed some timely advice from Tom Gimbel, CEO of the staffing and recruitment firm, The LaSalle Network. Gimbel recently offered some recession-proofing advice on his blog, Past Five (pastfive.typepad.com).

Gimbel says, “People are whispering about a recession. Employees are hiding in office corners whenever their bosses walk by fearing they will be the next jobless statistic. So, how do you make sure that you won’t be the next one to get the axe?”

1) Kiss Up or Kiss Your Butt Goodbye. Kidding, but there’s some truth to it. You don’t have to do your bosses laundry, but staying late at work a few nights a week wouldn’t hurt. Let your boss know that you understand the company’s state and want to help in any way you can. A few extra hours aren’t going to kill you, and it just may save your job!

2) Try Out for Company Cheerleader. Companies want team players. Dive into a group brainstorming session or raise your hand to organize the next office party. Go from the nameless person in cubicle 48 to the nameless person who is always involved, and even though you’re still nameless, you’ll still be employed!

3) Give it to Me Straight. Be honest, be transparent. If things aren’t looking so good and coworkers are dropping like flies, talk to your boss. Be bold and ask what you can do to save your job. Most of the time you’ll get a straight answer. If it doesn’t go well, at least you got a head start on the new job search!”

Thanks Tom Gimbel of The La Salle Network. You are certainly in a position to know. I would like to add another thought:

The paycheck you get each week is for doing your job. In today’s workplace, just doing the minimum may not be enough. You may keep your job by doing it well, but you’ll only grow your job, earning a raise or a promotion, by exceeding your employer’s expectations. Work hard, and smart, and your next evaluation will be a time to celebrate.

Marvin Walberg is a job search coach. Contact him at mwalberg(at)bellsouth.net, marvinwalberg.blogspot.com, or PO Box 43056, Birmingham, AL 35243