For the past two years we have been keeping a close watch of the economic crisis within the USA. The unemployment rate in the USA has significantly increased from "4.9% in December 2007 to 8.1% in March 2009." (see note 1) As a result of the economic downturn in the USA there is now a global recession which is now beginning to hit home here in the Caribbean. With Caribbean businesses tightening their belts in terms of budgets, how do you as an employee fear in this global recession? Here are some tips for any employee to ride the waves of the economic crisis and recession proof your job.

Be Proactive

As an employee you need to be proactive and let your voice be heard. For example you may have a better and more cost efficient way to do a particular task. You should present your ideas in a clear and concise manner for future consideration. Remember that even if your business idea is not accepted by your supervisor or manager, they will remember that you took the initiative and time to present your findings.

Meet Project Deadlines

It is imperative that you always work towards completing various projects and tasks within the deadlines given by your superiors. Yes, with a hectic work schedule and environment this sometimes may not be possible. However, in some cases you will have to put aside the 9am to 5pm mentality and work a few hours overtime to meet your deadline. If your business permits it, you could take your particular tasks and complete them at home. Remember that it is important to meet project deadlines as supervisors are depending on you in order for them to also meet their respective deadlines.

Be a team player

As mentioned above it is beneficial for you to meet all project deadlines. By aspiring to complete tasks successfully it shows that you are a team player and you value your job. Another way to be a team player is to have consideration for particular requests made by the company. As a result of the recession some businesses may be under acquisition in order to remain viable in this economic market. With the acquisition in effect there may be a temporary delay in the administration of raises and bonuses for employees. Yes, you have worked well for the entire year and expect your raise. However, with this acquisition it may not be the ideal time to ask for a raise. In this situation it would be best to wait a few months and also speak to Human Resources who would be able to keep you updated on the situation.

Don't fire yourself

Maybe you have been reading articles on the dangers of the internet for employees and potential employees. With all of these warnings people are somehow forgetting to protect their work image on the internet. Social networking sites such as Facebook, Myspace and Hi5 are fun ways to interact with friends, family and colleagues. Be careful in terms of posting unsuitable pictures which your employer or potential employer may have access to. Remember this simple rule, ‘If you don’t want the entire world to see it, don’t post it! ’ You can also do a simple Google test where you Google your name and see what the results are from the search. Also remember to behave appropriately at work parties and functions, especially in situations where alcohol is being served.

Keep your resume updated

You should always have an updated format of your resume. Remember to add to your resume any new accreditations, education and work experience. The job market at the moment may not be viable but there will eventually be a turnaround. As a result you need to have a solid resume to remain competitive.
The global recession has begun to adversely affect the Caribbean and as a result some persons may lose their jobs. The tips mentioned above are ways to recession proof your job to some extent. If your business has not been profitable and is forced to shutdown then the loss of jobs is sadly inevitable. However, in many cases where the budget for companies has been tightened, it is best for an employee to be a team player. As an employee you should do your best to keep a positive business attitude and be proactive to secure your position in the future.

Dannielle Deane is 25yrs old from the island of Barbados. Dannielle is a recent graduate of Long Island University, NY where she completed a Masters in Human Resource Management with a GPA of 3.95. At the moment Dannielle is job searching for an HR job to begin her career in Human Resources.
Webpage: http://www.jobfox.com/people/DannielleDeane

BIBLIOGRAPHY
United States Department of Labour. “Bureau of Labour Statistics” 17 March 2009
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