Don't Let the Recession Impact Job Performance
Five Ways to Have the Right Attitude and Proactive Behavior
Oct 28, 2009
Okay, so here’s the dilemma. On the one hand, the recession and fear of job loss has impacted many employees’ mental health and stress levels, thereby reducing their ability to perform well on the job. On the other hand, employees who don’t perform well, especially during a time of heightened layoffs, are more likely to get laid off. It’s quite a conundrum.
Impact of Recession on Employee Integrity and Mental Health
According to the most recent “American Workplace Insights” survey from Adecco Group North America, the stress of the current economic situation has caused many workers to consider unethical conduct on the job. Naturally, it’s one thing to think about it and another to take action.
Another part of the study indicated that many employees reported their mental health had been impaired. Unfortunately, this leads to low morale, poor productivity, safety dangers due to loss of focus and even the possibility that coworkers will become “infected.”
And while it may be difficult to keep a positive attitude and demonstrate proactive behavior when there is a possibility of lay offs on the horizon, being glum won’t solve the problem. Thinking ahead will. That means start thinking like an employer. Employees who can help their company reduce overhead costs may help to reduce the chances that they will be laid off.
Steps to Keep the Right Attitude and Proactive Behavior
In the meantime, it is important that employees work on their attitude and behavior. So what can employees do to keep the right outlook?
Don’t Assume. One of the worst things to do is to believe that something is going to happen when there is no way of being sure. Instead of worrying about an unknown future, employees should put all their energy into the here and now.
Do Your Best. Now is not the time to slack off. Thinking that it doesn’t make sense to work hard when there is a possibility of being laid off is one of the fastest ways to employees can find themselves out of work. Continue giving 110%. Be indispensable. And when employees are not at work, they should do their best not to worry. Eat properly, get plenty of exercise and rest, and leave work at work.
Be Open to Compromise. Sometimes when organizations get into financial trouble they look for cost-cutting measures. This may mean reducing headcount, hours, or salaries. While it can be difficult, employees should keep an open mind when it comes to accepting an alternative option. Or even be prepared to offer one of these steps as a solution. Employees may be able to save their job and their stream of income.
Be Prepared. Instead of putting energy into worrying about what might be, employees should develop a contingency plan just in case. Sometimes things are just out of everyone’s control. That means putting aside a cash reserve even if it’s just a few dollars a week. Set up an automatic on-line deposit through a firm such as ING. Next, reduce debt. Stop using credit cards except in emergency situations. Finally employees need to have a plan if they do become unemployed. How will they meet their financial obligations? Can they negotiate with creditors? What alternative sources of income might be available (i.e. garage sale, writing online, temp work)?
Build Support. Networking has never been more important. Whether employees create a close circle of supportive friends and family members or build their professional network, they need to know where they can turn if the time comes. Who can they talk to? Who might know about job openings?
It’s all a matter of how employees look at their situation. Turn lemons into lemonade. And don't let the recession impact job performance.
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