Dear Lost Job:

Recessions are always ugly and this one is no exception.

Rule One: if you lose your job, take advantage of the situation to examine all your options. Many people choose a recession as an ideal time to go back to school and pick up an MBA or courses in a technical specialty. It is a terrific time to finally get that certification that you have been putting off for so long. Many certifications are conveniently available on-line several times a year.

Rule Two: If you're gainfully employed but concerned about your job, make yourself indispensable. During recessions many people get dispirited and are less attentive to their jobs. They tend to work fewer hours and make more mistakes. Instead of letting yourself fall into that trap, push yourself to be more interested in your company. Make a point of introducing yourself to people in areas of the company where you are not known. Pitch in and help people who are overwhelmed with too much work. If you are upbeat, have a positive attitude, and are helpful to people in your departments as well as other departments, you will get a reputation as someone who is always there to help out. Companies hate to lose people like that!

It's also a great time to raise your hand and volunteer to help with the United Way campaign or similar community projects on behalf of your employer. Companies hate to layoff people who are hard workers and have high visibility in the community. Just don't overdo it and start neglecting your own workload.