Preparing for the New Work World

You're set! You can handle the new work world, because you're all about challenge and change! Sort of? Not sure where to begin? Managing your career is never easy, whether you've just graduated or you've been on the job for years. However, there are some things you can do to become employed - and stay employed.

Be positive

Make a great impression on everyone you meet - and not just your boss and your co-workers. I'm talking about your sister's friends, your cousin's basketball buddies, the woman sitting next to you on the bus.

You never know who the person is and who he or she knows.

This is actually a very successful career management and job searching technique called networking. It lets you become connected to other people in your line of work, including future employers, through social contacts.

Sure, it sounds self-serving and the very idea of it makes a lot of us uneasy. But it doesn't have to be a shallow and manipulative tactic. It's about people who like each other keeping their eyes and ears open for one another - what's so bad about that?

Make your career aspirations, interests and accomplishments known. You'll be surprised how it can help you.

Be proactive

Remember, even when you land a "permanent" job, your tenure with any one employer is never guaranteed. Job security actually means knowing you have marketable skills that are reinforced by the number and quality of your accomplishments.

You can start doing this today:

Start thinking of yourself as self-employed or as a consultant. You have skills your client (in this case, your boss) wants to utilize. But the competition is fierce and you always have to be on top of your game. That means consistently demonstrating a solid work ethic and an eagerness to contribute and learn.
Chart your career path, literally. Then you'll know what skills you need to develop to move to the next level, or field of interest - for this employer or another one.
Always have an up-to-date copy of your resumé and references. A resumé accentuating your computer skills is handy during contract or employment gaps - temp agencies are a fabulous way to tide yourself over when you're looking for something better suited to your interests.

Be prepared

Most financial planners advise that you consider putting aside the equivalent of three to six months' salary in savings or short-term investments, such as Guaranteed Investment Certificates (GICs).

This might seem a little steep if you are just entering the workforce. But if you can swing it, your stash will alleviate the stress of job fluidity.

Not only will it carry you through if a contract ends and you are unable to find immediate work, it will also give you the freedom to leave behind unpleasant employment situations. There's nothing worse than feeling trapped by your paycheque.

Once you've landed that first "real" job, consider getting a line of credit. Or, if you already have one from your university days, pay down as much of your debt as possible. This gives you an extra cushion if you can't quite build the recommended salary reserve.

It's all about attitude

Managing your career in this new work world may seem scary at times. But keep in mind that your skills are marketable and you're always ready to make the next move.

Try to maintain a positive outlook and face the work world with a plan of attack. You'll reap the ultimate rewards: real job security and limitless success.

The information in this article is general only; it is not intended as specific investment, financial, accounting, legal or tax advice for any individual.