In today’s marketplace, businesses are constantly changing and evolving and employee transition is a part of the day-to-day landscape.

At Ontru, we work with companies to support the employment transition process, which includes helping employees to manage the shock of redundancy while preparing for and participating in the active search for a new job. Even in an environment of heightened awareness and anxiety surrounding job security, we continue to encounter clients who never thought that they would be selected to leave their employer.

There are also those who knew it could be a possibility, but could not imagine what their next step would be and chose instead to bury their heads in the sand.

Finally, there are those who simply believed they did not have enough time to dedicate to preparing for what would be their next phase of life.

While this type of change may seem too overwhelming to consider, it does not have to be.

Here are seven tips to focus on now, to ensure that you are prepared if you lose your job:

• Keep your résumé current and accessible

Even if you are not searching for a job, it is important to keep your résumé (and biography) current.

Make it your business to be informed about the types of résumé formats that are preferred for your level and industry, in addition to key words and search terms.

Do not be shy about your career achievements and highlights.

• Personal brand

When in transition, it may be difficult to think about how you wish to represent and differentiate yourself in such a competitive marketplace.

While you are employed, reflect on your strengths (the things that make you unique and why you would be an asset to a future organisation).

Once you are clear on all you have to offer, craft a brief and concise summary of your professional profile or “elevator pitch”. You never know when the opportunity may present itself.

• Networking

This is an integral part of staying ahead of the curve. Networking is about increasing the number of contacts and people who know about your skills, what you have to offer and even how you may be of value to them.

We often assume that even those closest to us, personally and professionally, already know what we have to offer. They may know our job titles or even the company we work for, but very seldom can they accurately articulate a summary of your career highlights and value.

Try conducting your own informal survey of key contacts and see what they say.

• Continuing development and learning

Money and time are simply excuses for avoiding participating in continuing development.

In our experience, there are typically two main barriers to identifying and executing on development: the first is that clarity is lacking on what areas can or need to be developed; the second is regarding development options, other than training, to expand and strengthen skills, knowledge and experience.

Our rule of thumb is the 1:3:5 ratio: one overarching development goal per year, three development objectives and five development activities. This approach is sure to keep you up to date and sharp.

• Self-awareness

Many of our clients were immersed in the routine of their roles and on autopilot for most of their careers, when times were good.

We encourage “out of the box” thinking when it comes to self-reflection. Consider your interests, your strengths and how you can build on what you already do well.

Still disconnected and unsure? Ontru offers a number of assessment tools that can increase awareness of your strengths and interests, and shed light on possible next steps.

• Personal financial planning and preparation

Here’s the big one. Most people do not start preparing financially for a job loss until it happens, even in today’s economy.

It can be tough thinking about, or even considering, making cuts if you are already financially challenged or in debt, a family member has already lost their job or, in contrast, you are just enjoying your lifestyle tremendously.

The reality is that if you were to lose your job tomorrow, you would have to make adjustments. Consider what they would be and start to make them now. It is time and money well spent.

• Market intelligence

Lastly, understand the market trends and data. Stay informed about how competitive your industry is. Is it expanding or is it contracting?

What are employers looking for when they are hiring? What are new hires getting paid compared with those who have been in similar roles for three years or more? How long does it take to get a job in your field of expertise?

Being informed will allow you to see things clearly and accurately, and to prepare accordingly.

The only thing that is certain is change. How we manage through it depends largely on how we prepare for it.

At Ontru, we provide several individual and group development options that can assist. To learn more, visit our website at www.ontru.bm or contact us at 236 6878.

• Jenny Smatt is the president and senior consultant of Ontru Ltd