One of the things I have to worry about in an economy like we’re facing today is that it’s very possible that my job could be cut at any moment. Fortunately, my position is safe as it’s funding itself and I have entrenched and endeared myself to those I support, however, one can never say never, right?

So how does one make sure you’re indisposable to a company? In my case it’s not terribly difficult. You see, not only do I have a State Job, but I support the people who run the largest College of the largest University in said state. It’s no fewer than 70 people. I’ve been doing it for a little over a year and a half now, and I made it a point to be friendly with everyone. Not that it was particularly hard to do, as everyone I support is extremely high quality. I’m pretty confident I’m going to be OK.

But I’m not sure. So I’ve taken some precautions. I’ve updated my resume, I’ve talked to my boss about the situation involving the budget cuts we’ve been seeing throughout the school, and asked point blank what we can expect in the future. I’ve started in on advancing my knowledge base. I’ve taken up and gotten really into persuing more computer certifications, Server+, MSCE, CISCO. One of my co-workers commented on the fact that I had recently, after much procrastination, spearheaded the charge ahead to greater education. I responded with “well, if I don’t do it now, someone else will and then come for my job.” It was a pretty profound statement that was a spur of the moment thing, but it kind of made me stop and realize I was right.

We all have to take the necessary steps to make sure the company know’s we’re irreplaceable. The problem in most of the industries, is that there’s no company/employee loyalty with the elimination of pensions and the start of 401k. Now, because things are the way they are, we have to suck it up and re-sell ourselves every day to our employers. I will do that, but I will make myself marketable should the unthinkable happen.

Good luck out there.