The Ability to Recognize: What’s Going on Around You?

Recognize definition: Identifying objects or events that have been encountered before. One of the most important things you can do to be prepared for any career situation is to be mindful about what is going on within your company in a micro sense; in your division, department, direct chain of command, and co-worker arena. Just as important is the macro environment; to recognize what’s going on in your industry, your city and region, the country, and world economy in general. Every company is vulnerable to external forces; acquisition, merger, innovative competitor, or economic calamity. If a business is losing money, or returning an unsatisfactory rate of return on shareholder equity, it is ripe for some form of takeover. Another organization may feel they can squeeze more profits from the company or various profitable segments of the business may be spun off from the losers.  In any event, a downsizing, re-focus of resources, or reengineering must eventually occur for the business to remain viable. 

Where do you fit in all that your company is going through? How does what the local and national economy, and perhaps the industry your company is in, impact the potential for long-term employment for you? You must use your intelligence and prepare for any unexpected career changes. Knowledge is power – power to help yourself.