Sometimes news of doom and gloom is the impetus we need to take stock of where you are in your life and what's important to you. For many it can be a scary time especially if you know the company you work for, or the industry in general is going through a hard time. But as has been said many times fore warned is fore armed and there are plenty of activities that can help immunise you during times of uncertainty.

Take stock of your career:

What are your skills, especially those you enjoy using, and are they in demand? What do you value in a career and in your life and are these being satisfied at the moment? If you can't answer these questions, now is a perfect time to conduct a thorough skills and values audit here. By doing so you will be in a better position to analyse any gaps in your toolkit, know your value proposition and understand where you should be targeting your job search efforts.

Separate fact from fiction:

Keep your ears to the ground and understand the key trends in your industry. At times like these the rumour mill tends to go into overdrive, and though many consider the rumour mill to be more accurate than the usual company or industry spin, learn to take rumours at face value. Assess how reliable the sources are, what's your gut instinct - it's usually right!!

Know LinkMe is your ally:

Have you got your resume up to date and are you happy with how you've portrayed yourself to potential employers? If not - go back and edit your resume. Haven't got a resume? Check out our samples. More people secure their dream job through our resume database than through the job board - so if you're not in - you can't win. Check your status - are you actively looking, or not and just happy to talk? Make sure your details are correct!

Network extensively:

Well connected people are usually only a phone call away from their next job offer. How are your networks? If you want sound industry advice your networks are generally a reliable source. Have you considered establishing your own networking group? Whether you're in a profession or not you can set up your own networking group of like minded individuals to help you navigate the turbulent economic waters!!

Build your career resilience:

By now you understand that you are the master and commander of your own career! Yes everyone is susceptible during an economic downturn but it's how well prepared you are and your ability to bounce back that'll keep food on your table and a roof over your head. Career resilience can be built and your employability is up to you.

Keep your options open:

Remember the only way is NOT up!

If new opportunities come you way - ask yourself - how might this add value to my career - will it increase my skills, visibility, marketability etc?

Check your finances:

Worst case scenario - if you lose your job - how long could you afford to survive? It would be wise to take stock of your spending habits and consider what resources you have should you lose your job unexpectedly. The more financial pressure you're under, the greater the urgency to move into your next job (any job) quickly and the less choice you'll have!

Maintain perspective & look for happiness:

Though it seems an oxymoron it's important to maintain perspective.

If you think it's going to be terrible, chances are it will! On the other hand if you believe it's going to be alright, you've got a strong value proposition to offer many employers, then chances are you'll weather the storm and come out stronger because of it!

Other useful articles include:

Economic Climate

Future Employment Trends

Should I Stay or Should I Go?

Networking is Socialising is Networking

The Art of Self Promotion