Tips for Remaining Employable During Difficult Times

News reports show that the July 2025 job report was alarming - just 73,000 new jobs added in July, with big reductions to May's and June's numbers.

Even more alarming is that because the July job report came in under expectations, President Trump decided to “kill the messenger” by firing Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Commissioner Erika McEntarfer.  

BLS produces some of the country’s most closely watched economic statistics, such as the monthly jobs and inflation reports, which feature prominently in the Federal Reserve’s assessment of the economy. Those reports are critical to businesses when they develop investment and hiring plans. Important numbers like this must be fair and accurate, they can’t be manipulated for political purposes. Yet here we are. So, what can you do to feel empowered about your own survival? 

As Americans, we are a very career-driven culture and our achievements at work absolutely contribute to our overall personal well-being. Employees still want to be promoted and to progress within their organizations, even during difficult times. Here are my tips for maintaining your own employability:

1. Landing a promotion: Focus on how you meet and exceed the expectations of your position. Highlight significant accomplishments, and quantify achievements in terms of value you delivered to the organization and the bottom-line. Then schedule some private meeting time with the boss, indicating that you’d like to discuss your professional development within the company.

2. Building better relationships: People who are well-liked tend to be more successful than those who have personality clashes. Making a daily, conscientious effort to connect with co-workers can make a difference. Find common interests outside of the office, or seek out ways to become indispensable to your team. Even a simple step like becoming the office software expert can boost a person’s popularity.

3. Finding a job you love: Spend time reflecting on your interests and talents, and research different jobs that require your skill set. Network in those circles at every opportunity, and don’t hesitate to request informational interviews with professionals in the field.

As with all important projects, a timeline is key. Make a thorough plan, complete with measurable milestones. We can help you strategize these communications and conversations before you have them, and improve your chances of success.

My advice: In an era when companies cannot promise us employment, we all have to be vigilant in maintaining our own employability.