Reflections of a Square Peg

It's Getting Scary Out There

It's certainly become apparent that the world has changed over the past few weeks and for many it has become a concerning and worrying time.

I have had several conversations with good friends and associates in the last few days who have come out on the wrong end of what's happening. I have been there twice myself in previous cutbacks and would not wish it to happen to you so here are 7 steps to take to make the most of the current climate:

1. RECOGNISE REALITY
The Ostrich approach is not going to work this time, regardless of whether your job or company looks threatened, the chances are someone you know or work with has been. Plan for the best and be prepared for the worst.

2. USE THE OPPORTUNITY
It's happening anyway so what is the best outcome that you can make from the situation? Where are there gaps that can be satisified with what you have to offer.

3. REINVENT THE VALUE
What you had to offer 3 months ago might not apply now. Take stock of your target audience, how have their needs changed and what can you do to still offer value to them?

4. LOOK FOR ALTERNATIVES
You might have gone through this type of time before - what did you learn that time that you could pass on to others? Where else might your skills be needed, where before they might not have looked at you?

5. HAVE EMPLOYMENT FLEXIBILITY
Needs must and what might not have been a good offer or opportunity previously might now be the only option. It may only have to be for the short term.

6. USE AND HELP YOUR NETWORK
The number one rule in networking is to give - now more than ever. It's the worst networker in the world who only ever calls you when they need something. Reach out and offer to help in any small way, it will be remembered and come back to you.

7. REINFORCE YOUR BRAND
Remind yourself of what your unique promise of value is, your strengths and best skills and make sure you are doing everything to communicate that effectively to the people that need to know.

Are you starting to feel the heat in your job?

When you have an 'I Hate My Job day'

(Even if you're retired, you sometimes have those days)
Try this out:
On your way home from work, stop at your pharmacy and go to the thermometer section and purchase a rectal thermometer made by Johnson & Johnson

Be very sure you get this brand. When you get home, lock your doors, draw the curtains and disconnect the phone so you will not be disturbed.

Change into very comfortable clothing and sit in your favorite chair. Open the package and remove the thermometer. Now, carefully place it on a table or a surface so that it will not become chipped or broken.

Now the fun part begins.

Take out the literature from the box and read it carefully. You will notice that in small print there is a statement:

'Every Rectal Thermometer made by Johnson & Johnson is personally tested. ' and then sanitized

Now, close your eyes and repeat out loud five times,'I am so glad I do not work in the thermometer quality control department at Johnson & Johnson.'

HAVE A NICE DAY; AND REMEMBER, THERE IS ALWAYS SOMEONE ELSE WITH A JOB THAT IS MORE OF A PAIN IN THE ASS THAN YOURS!

.........Remember, if you haven't got a smile on your face and laughter in your heart...then maybe you should go and work for Johnson & Johnson!!!!!