You are NOT lucky to have a job

There are few universal truths. However, I think most of can agree that working retail sucks. I spent about eight years working retail myself. I often didn’t like it, and I was surrounded by a lot of people who liked it less.

One day, while closing the store for the night, our manager said something that I do think was meant to inspire us, or something.

“There’s a recession. You should consider yourselves lucky to have a job.”

The first part of his statement was true. It was 2008 or 2009 and there was a recession. That night I believed the second part of his statement also. Unemployment was high. I *should* consider myself lucky to have a job.

I discussed this with my dad the next day. Once I said I agreed, he cut me off.

“You are not lucky to have a job. They are lucky to have you.”

This is not just the sentiment of a proud parent. I think everyone should hold this opinion. Say it with me, “I am not lucky to have a job.”

Are you good at your job? Please say “yes”.

I was asked by one of my users how I could always seem so calm at the office. (I’m not, but I took the compliment.) I asked her one simple question.

“Are you good at what you do?”

She didn’t have to answer. Her supervisor was nearby and answered “yes” for her.

You should be good at what you do.

• Don’t be a jerk.
• Know your stuff
• Finish tasks
• Be organized (enough to know what your tasks are)
• Seriously, don’t be a jerk.

Know your options

The easiest way to be confident at your job and to know that they are lucky to have you is to have options. You should know that it’s your choice to be there. When was the last time you *networked* with people in your industry? (If you think “networking” is a dirty word, wait until you see my next tip.) If you can’t remember the last time, or your answer is “never” you should look to see if your city has meet-ups. Go to one.

Here’s the dirty word I promised you. LinkedIn. I bet someone shuddered reading that. Seriously though, find out if recruiters in your industry use LinkedIn. (If you are in IT, the answer is yes.)

Recruiters use LinkedIn the same way you use Monster.com or USA Jobs. (Side Note: USA Jobs is terrible. Don’t use it unless you’ve talked to a recruiter and they tell you to apply so they can get your resumé.) If recruiters in your industry are there, they will find you. You may not accept any of the offers they have, but the ego boost of knowing you are wanted will help you in your current position.

Pink slip? Who cares?

If you have options, and you are good at your job, don’t be afraid of getting fired. You already have the tools needed to find a new one.

• People get fired all the time
• If you have options, you’ll land on your feet
• Switching jobs can be the best way to get a pay raise