Gainfully employed or not, I look at the opportunities available to me every 6-8 months. I ask for a big pay increase (10% or more) and apply only for positions that I find incredibly interesting. This lets me know what the market is like, what the current pay rates are, and if I'm still marketable. This keeps my skills up to date, and marketable (yes, they are different things) by letting me know what skills are being requested and sometimes determine trends in skills. What's the worst thing that could happen? You get offered a better job that pays more money? If you're simply wanting to prepare for the potential layoff without actually persuing work I would recommend a completely different approach. 1. Update your resume. Trust me, it will need updating. 2. Talk to some recruiters and build a relationship. Be honest, tell them you are in the market to test the waters. Let them know if they find something really great to let you know. 3. Talk with others in the industry. Word of mouth is one of the best ways to find work. Tell friends you're interested in opportunities that are out there. Be honest about why you are looking (potential layoffs, nervous about the economy, etc.) and ask for discretion. 4. Look on the usual job boards (monster, careerbuilder, yahoo jobs, brainbuzz, wantedjobs, etc) and look at opportunities that interest you. See what they are paying. Get more information on the job openings if you can to determine skills that are most needed. 5. Be prepared to explain to your employer why you are looking for work. They may not find out, but be prepared nonetheless. Depending on your supervisor's mentality you may even want to let them know that you are concerned about your 'job security' (if there is such a thing) with the recent events. Researching marketability is one way to explain your search. No matter your response, be prepared to explain your actions. In the event you get offered a better job, for more money consider taking it. I learned long ago that job security is a delusion. Good luck! Ed Spencer MCSE/MCT/CNA/MCP/A+/Network+ -----Original Message----- From: Brian Cahill [mailto:bcahillcisspat_private] Sent: Monday, November 19, 2001 11:27 PM To: securityjobsat_private Subject: How does one look for a job when gainfully employed? Hi, I am working full-time at a start-up. While my job is not in (immediate) jeopardy, there is always the risk of lay-offs when working for a new security firm. With that, how do I keep my options open with head-hunters and firms while I am gainfully and happily employed? As if that dreaded day comes, I want to be prepared. Any ideas? Thanks! Brian _________________________________________________________________ Get your FREE download of MSN Explorer at http://explorer.msn.com/intl.asp
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