Queensland today front page newspapers read “Huge job losses in the Public Sector.” 200,000 people are on the cutting block across 20 Queensland Government Portfolios. The government seeks to find $4 billion worth of savings to the cost to a workforce – people like you and me. Temporary workers have not had their contracts renewed and some government-sponsored programs have also lost funding but what job is really safe?
Job losses are across the board lately and not just in government. Companies like Darryl Lee chocolates are the latest company to enter into receivership. Job losses usually come with little warning for the workers and understandably it is a very emotional time. There are still mortgages to pay and and bills coming in. The current environment means an influx of people in the job market with one lady interviewed on the news tonight is applying up to 12 jobs a day but still can’t find work. The problem is there are so many now on the job market it is very competitive.
But what can you do to mitigate a job loss?
If you do already have a job nothing is ever permanent so please never sit on your laurels and think it will never happen to me.
So if you have a job practise the following:
- Always be employable. Be active in the marketplace, network and constantly look at skill development. Upgrade your CV every year.
- Start turning your hobby into a business now! What better way to start while you are employed to earn some extra money on the side? This has helped me a few times where I have had my job cut, and when I was let go from two other companies.
- Alternatively if you can try to find the time, take a hourly paying second job. I think I have worked two jobs for the past 12 years. During my Science Honours year I had three jobs; I worked weekends in retail, night shift at the theatre and tutored undergraduates. Other times when I had a 9-5 weekday job, I also worked night-shift in the lab. Working two jobs can help mitigate if one job falls through…
One recommendation that is for both people who are still employed or suddenly find themselves in the job queue is to consider alternative income opportunities.
- Sign up for your own referral business. Find a product you love in one of the many direct sales businesses and do what most women do best; get paid to refer amazing products and receive free training, support and unlimitless earning potential for working for yourself. No one can fire you from working for yourself (note for yourself not by yourself – there is always an amazing team cheering you on). I have worked for two direct sales companies part-time and the extra cash has helped pay off those pesky credit cards, contributed to a house deposit and paid for wonderful holidays.
Contact me if you are interested in learning more about starting your own referral business.
