Day before yesterday a close friend got the pink slip at Citi. These days it is not uncommon. So what is the best thing that those aspiring for or already in a tech career do in a slowdown?
Here are a couple of suggestions:
1. Acquire skills
When there are more candidates for the same job, a situation which older people like me were quite used to before the bull run took over, those with more skills, versatility and flexibility have an edge. Same goes when companies think of downsizing. People who can do multiple things are more valuable. Use this time to acquire more skills - through training, courses, self study, projects, free lancing whatever - get skills, collect experience, join courses - increase your value.
2. Think entrepreneurship
Life is not just about a job. Being an entrepreneur is also an exciting and very rewarding option. And it does not always require large sums of money or backing to start something. Freelancing is one such example. But at times like these, when most companies are very open to outsourcing and variablizing their costs, opportunities for starting something of your own are plentiful. Even if not very successful, this would give a wonderful experience which future employers will value immensely.
Would love to hear what others have to say. These are turbulent times and any ideas which will help friends and colleagues will be very welcome.
Here are a couple of suggestions:
1. Acquire skills
When there are more candidates for the same job, a situation which older people like me were quite used to before the bull run took over, those with more skills, versatility and flexibility have an edge. Same goes when companies think of downsizing. People who can do multiple things are more valuable. Use this time to acquire more skills - through training, courses, self study, projects, free lancing whatever - get skills, collect experience, join courses - increase your value.
2. Think entrepreneurship
Life is not just about a job. Being an entrepreneur is also an exciting and very rewarding option. And it does not always require large sums of money or backing to start something. Freelancing is one such example. But at times like these, when most companies are very open to outsourcing and variablizing their costs, opportunities for starting something of your own are plentiful. Even if not very successful, this would give a wonderful experience which future employers will value immensely.
Would love to hear what others have to say. These are turbulent times and any ideas which will help friends and colleagues will be very welcome.
