The fact that you currently have a good job in HR does not mean that you will have it forever. A new director, restructuring or financial problems may occur in your company and you can be the first to be dismissed. The simple truth is that the you can never be sure of your current job. Even outstanding HR professionals are losing their jobs often for reasons out of their control. What should you do?
Make sure that the loss of your current job will not hurt you more than is necessary. That is at least what Alan Collins, the former HR director of PepsiCo and author of books focused on HR, recommends on the Success in HR website. He advises to stick to the following five rules.
1. Admit that you are replaceable
Keep in mind that your current job will most likely not be your last. Think about your career and the alternatives you would possibly be interested in.
2. Be loyal, especially to your family
Even your loyalty to your employer will not save you if he wants to fire you. Make sure that your loyalty to your employer does not make you disloyal to your loved ones.
3. Keep your CV up to date
Even if you have a job and you are satisfied with it, your LinkedIn profile should not look as if you have not used it for several years. Similar to the traditional paper résumé, the profile is your primary marketing tool. You never know who could see it.
4. Develop your expertise and skills
Constantly keep educating yourself in your field. Attend seminars and conferences, keep up with current events and new technologies, and talk with your colleagues.
5. Find people who will support you
Always find enough time to develop relationships with people in the HR community outside the company you are currently working for. Building such relationships is something that will take time, but it is definitely worth it. Do you know enough people who will recommend you when you need it? Then start looking for them right now. Make a commitment to do at least a little something every day to enhance your contacts.
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