The news that a large call centre in Jamaica closed two of their locations led me to ask readers this question. Companies undergo a redundancy exercise for many reasons. Whatever the reason, if there is an opportunity to retain some employees, would you be one of those who would be spared from the chopping table? If you have a system of frequent formal assessment, you will already know. If you have never been fortunate to sit with your manager for a discussion on your performance, then you will sit nervously and hope that you are not called into a meeting without notice.
One of the things I tell new hires during Orientation, is that from Day 1, they start to write their recommendation. When they leave the company, the only thing that the General Manager can write in a recommendation, is the truth. So from Day 1, new employees must take the following action. The list is by no means exhaustive.
Soak up all knowledge and skills like a sponge: I tell employees that if you are taught something on Day 1, if you are asked to recall information or demonstrate the skills taught, you should be able to do that, because, you engaged with what was taught, you practised, you asked questions to clarify any uncertainties and you paid attention to the details.
Stay under the radar for the first three months: New employees, especially those who have worked elsewhere, sometimes have a tendency to pass judgement on what they have observed in the new job. Take the time to get to know the people you are working with, especially your boss, have a learner’s attitude, develop relationships. After a period of time, your suggestions will be better received and come off as helpful, rather than critical. The littlest one shouldn’t be the loudest in the room. It’s just psychology.
Find out the norms, the values and other aspect of the culture and do likewise: Hopefully, you were selected because your values aligned with that of the company. If you are someone who doesn’t care about excellence, but one of the values of the company is excellence, then you will have a difficult time, especially if you are not willing to improve in your quality of work.
Be reliable: I am amazed how many employees are supposed to submit reports or other documents, and just don’t do it, and don’t provide any reason why they have not adhered to the deadline. Of course, the manager has a responsibility to take the required action regarding the failure to meet the deadline. I am perplexed when someone takes a customer request, and goes home without doing it, or following up with whomever is supposed to. Reliability also includes attending work when you are scheduled to. Those persons who are frequently absent and late, will likely be let go.
Be nice: “Nice” is a very trite word, but easily understood by Caribbean people. Do you often find yourself in conflict with others? Are you chosen when it is time to form a team? Emotional Intelligence plays a part in how you are viewed. The brightest most accomplished employee, especially those at the leadership level, will be overlooked, if they are seen as “difficult.”
When you review the above list, ask yourself the question….”If there were redundancies at my company, would I survive?” Be honest with yourself. If you have not had a formal sit down with the person who directly supervises you, ask them for feedback on your performance. It might just help you to be spared, if there are redundancies at your company.
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