Prove It or Lose It

The Chicago Cubs lead off hitter, Alphonse Soriano, was pushed down in the batting order recently, due to poor performance. He hit a miserable .173 over the last 36 games, and his lackadasical defense had me seriously convinced that hitters were strategically aiming in his direction. Last week, we saw a newcomer fresh from AAA play in Soriano's place, and he played his heart out with great results. Thus the change in Soriano's status. There is a parallel to this in business. A professional has to keep working at being an outstanding contributor to a company's goals, or they can be moved into a less significant role in the organization, or even lose their position. Retention of a good job is not an entitlement. You don't reach a certain level in an organization and become safe for the rest of your career. You have to keep performing, keep proving that you have it to stay even, let alone to progress. What you did a few years ago is history. Companies rightly have a "What have you done for me lately?" attitude. Although this seems obvious, some ignored this imperative during financial good times. Now, when companies are tightening their belts and eliminating unproductive positions, people are scurrying around trying to prove their value. Maybe this is a reality people need to experience once in their career to get the message. It's not the first time it has happened (I experienced in myself in the recession of the early 80's), and it won't be the last. What should you do to improve your chances of retaining your job in turbulent times?

• Understand your company's goals and exactly how your responsibilities relate to them.
• Make sure you have clear performance goals against which your performance can be measured in an objective way.
• Keep in close communication with your manager, so you know exactly what is expected of you.
• Always exhibit a positive, "can do" attitude, and volunteer to do whatever is needed.
• Keep growing your skills and experience, even if you have to do it on your own time.

Failure to do these things will make you vulnerable in your position. If you aren't willing to do what it takes to contribute value to your company, some young up-and-comer (or a cunning veteran) will take your place before you know it. Stay hungry, work smart, and be successful.