I'm a senior administrator at an academic medical center in California that is experiencing serious financial troubles. We have had a series of layoffs and salaries have been frozen. Needless to say, this situation has added tremendous stress to my life. I love my job and would like to remain working here, however, I need some practical advice to help me survive during this difficult time. Do you have any suggestions?

I know what it's like to work in an organization that is experiencing layoffs, to see long-time friends leave holding a cardboard box of their belongings, and to worry about financial survival should my job be eliminated. I also know that, at times like these, communication skills can impact your success or failure. Do not underestimate how critical the way you communicate with managers, peers and direct reports can influence your vulnerability for being laid off. Having survived three recessions, I have learned the following communication strategies that I hope will be of help to you.

1. Always communicate in a way that is positive and forward thinking

   I am not suggesting for a minute that you should act like a Pollyanna, for this would surely undermine your credibility. However, at times like these, you cannot afford to drop your guard and unload on a colleague about your concerns. Information from these types of conversations have a way of reaching your manager and other people of influence in the organization. You want to be perceived as someone with an upbeat attitude who will be a key player once the financial situation improves. Find someone outside the organization to confide in regarding your challenges and options. This approach will give you a confidential outlet and prevent you from venting at work.

   Look for ways, no matter how small, to help each person you meet. This may involve recommending an article or book or sharing a connection from your network. Consider inviting a colleague to meet with you and a person who they would enjoy knowing. Make Starbucks your second office. The investment will be small, but the potential benefits tremendous. At these meetings, do not speak in negative terms about your current organization's difficulties. Be honest, but project a positive attitude regarding the future.

2. Be proactive in pursuing high potential assignments

   Get assertive and ask to be put on projects that will survive the current economic conditions. Prepare a strong business case describing the value you will bring to each project. Also ask several well-respected people in the organization to speak on your behalf regarding these assignments. Use these difficult times to motivate yourself to be more assertive about what you want. Take some well thought out risks and you will be surprised with how energized you will become.

3. Reconnect with business associates from your past

   I know, you have heard and read this advice any number of times, but it is critical. Every successful person that I know takes the time to stay in touch with current and former colleagues. Let's face it, if you get laid off you will have to do this anyway, but under a lot more pressure. Establish a goal to have coffee or lunch once a week with a different individual for the next twelve months. When you call your contacts, ask them to check their availability beginning one month out into the future. Very few people will have their calendar filled up that far out. When you meet, don't forget to ask each contact to introduce you to other people with whom you share common business interests.

One of the additional benefits of this networking practice is that your personal confidence will begin to rise. Knowing that you have an extended network will provide the inner strength that you will succeed no matter what happens.

I hope that this information is helpful. Contact me if you would have any additional questions.

Copyright , Mark J. Campbell. All rights reserved.
Permission to reprint this article is granted, provided you let me know where it is being printed, the copyright is not removed, and the following text accompanies each article:

"Mark Campbell partners with organizations for leadership development. For a complimentary subscription to his newsletter, "The Insightful Leaders," go to www.mjcampbellassoc.com."

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