Uber, Etsy, and Twitter are just a few tech companies that have recently gone through some very public tough times. From corporate shakeups to company-wide layoffs, these events have led many to question whether these companies have viable futures.
Whether you work at a high profile company or a small tech start-up, this feeling of uncertainty may hit close to home. “Not knowing if you will have a job in a few months is a fear that can keep even the most senior executive up at night,” explains Jennifer Oppenheimer, a Managing Director at ES Technology, a division of The Execu|Search Group. “This stress and anxiety is sometimes worse than the actual change itself. However, if you let it consume your every thought, it can often lead you to freeze at work and be absent from your personal life.”
As a result, it’s important to deal with this uncertainty head on. Rather than being in denial or trying to ignore the inevitable, there are a number of steps you can take to ensure you are prepared for any situation. To give yourself some peace of mind, here are 4 ways to get started:
Don’t wait until the last possible minute to start thinking about your job search. “While you certainly do not have to make a move until you are ready to, it doesn’t hurt to be prepared,” explains Jennifer. “If you feel uncertain about your future with the company, start getting organized. Taking the time to set goals and prepare your application materials will help you remain focused and confident during the search process.” To do this, Jennifer suggests assessing your interests, improving your personal brand on sites like LinkedIn, reaching out to your network, and giving your references a heads up.
While it can be difficult to focus on your work when you (and others) are playing a waiting game, this is not the time to check out. “Having a one foot out the door policy will only burn bridges,” says Jennifer. “If you ultimately need to find a new job, you’ll most likely want to use a former colleague or manager as a reference. Keeping your game face on is a great way to impart a positive, lasting impression on key people.” This means that you should go about your day as usual, meet your project deadlines, and avoid job searching at work.
Although you may be tempted to devote all of your free time to job searching, it’s important to maintain a healthy balance. This is especially true given that finding a new job can feel like a job in itself. As a result, Jennifer advises professionals to keep to their regular routine. “Find time to enjoy your hobbies and spend time with family and friends,” she says. “This will help you maintain a positive attitude and your confidence, which are both integral to having a successful interview.”
While your employer may be facing uncertain times, the tech industry as a whole is experiencing quite the opposite. In fact, the ever-evolving nature of technology has solidified it as one of the fastest-growing industries in the country. Not only does this mean that there are plenty of new opportunities to take advantage of, but there is less competition as well. “In today’s technological age, every company can be considered a digital company, and therefore, all require technology-minded professionals, “explains Jennifer. “This influx of hiring has led to a short supply of talent, which means that employers are the ones competing for candidates. If you are able to position yourself as an individual who can address a skills gap or help the company stay up-to-date with the latest trends, you’ll most likely have your pick of opportunities.”
Get our latest job search and career insights delivered straight to your inbox