Forum - March 2009

Making
Lemonade Out
of Layoffs

In a recent issue of Forbes, writer Tara Weiss explains that a recession may be an ideal time to ask for a promotion. Here are six steps for moving up now:

1.First, prove you can do it. Before formally asking for the promotion, start doing the job, or aspects of it. That probably won’t be hard where there have been layoffs, since there’s so much work to go around. Taking that initiative shows managers you’re serious and gives you the opportunity to build a strong case when asking for a formal title.

2.Don’t appear “me” focused. When you approach managers about taking on extra responsibility, explain that you want to help the company get through the tough times. Don’t go barreling in demanding a promotion.

3.Be sensitive. When volunteering for that extra responsibility, show sensitivity toward the company’s circumstances. Address the fact that coworkers have been laid off and times are tough.

4. Money. Getting more money, even if you’ve taken on more responsibility, is tricky these days. You’ll have the most luck once you’ve started doing the job and demonstrated success. When you broach the subject, mention the money you’ve either brought into the company or the money you’ve saved by cutting excess fat or doing the job three people used to do. Also, ask for a salary readjustment commensurate with the title and extra responsibility, not a raise. If the boss says the budget won’t allow it, ask when that topic can be revisited. Or ask for a performance-based bonus. Some employers will feel more comfortable doling out money that way.

5. Be patient. Your promotion may take time to get approved since operations are under tighter scrutiny. Don’t expect action on the spot. Your supervisor may have to run your advancement through several levels of superiors.

6. Don’t wait too long. Because of down-sizing, fewer people are doing the same amount of work. Many middle-and upper-level managers have been hit hard by layoffs. That makes it an ideal time to take on extra responsibility — somebody has to. But don’t wait too long. If you don’t do it, someone else will.