Uncertainty in the workplace? Bring it on!

Uncertainty is now a regular part of life for job seekers and employers. Economic ups and downs, political events, tech changes, and shifts in the workplace have made it hard to predict outcomes. However, these days are also genuine opportunities for those who learn how to live with uncertainty.

At Personnel Partners, we work with hundreds of businesses and candidates experiencing all levels of uncertainty, and have found some common strategies that thriving clients and job seekers display. Some use buzz words that you might be tired of hearing, but it’s the way that you make that trait your own that is the key to success.

Thriving Business Clients

1. Flex
   Take a look (or another look) at your flexible work practices. These can help employees feel more in control amid changing circumstances in their private lives. Employees with less stress are more productive. Flexibility doesn’t have to mean redesigning a job; it is often the little adjustments that mean the most. Really, couldn’t that mom come in at 8:15 and shorten her lunch hour if it meant getting kids on the bus? Couldn’t your team work together to figure out how to cover for each others’ unexpected emergencies? Should you make that opening a temporary one so that everyone understood the scenario?

2. Talk about it
   Your employees are already aware that the economy, technology, political environment, and other factors are regularly impacting the workplace. Giving updates about company direction and market changes (even if it seems like you are doing it constantly) can help alleviate anxiety. When you share, ask for feedback to teach healthy two-way communication. You’ll open the door for any brilliant suggestions to help address constant change.

3. Teach
   Yes, your employees could be learning new technology such as AI on their own, but the best results will come from you giving specific training on how to integrate new skills into their jobs. If you dedicate your management team to developing your current employees, you won’t need to be constantly wishing you could find better-skilled talent in a difficult recruiting market that isn’t going to improve.

4. Go Shorter
   Even when the future is unpredictable, having clear goals can provide direction. Break down larger objectives into manageable tasks that employees can achieve. This approach creates a sense of purpose, which translates into that buzzword “engagement”. Small wins lead to a winning mindset when you need the big issues tackled.

5. Create Support
   The right kind of culture starts at the top, but it doesn’t have to be all on you. Encourage team-building activities and peer support systems, providing the opportunities for employees to share their experiences and strategies for dealing with uncertainty. In a world that is increasing isolated, you can make your workplace one where employees feel connected. Co-workers can be the biggest source of support, if you set the stage for it.

Thriving Job Seekers

1. Grow
   Accept that setbacks will occur and focus on what you can learn from each experience. A growth mindset not only enhances resilience but also makes you more attractive to potential employers. It’s not just a cute meme; changing your perspective really does change your trajectory.

2. Network
   In uncertain times, networking can open new doors. Attend industry events, join professional organizations, and connect with others in your field. Building relationships can lead to job opportunities and valuable resources. Person-to-person connections virtually disappeared for a while, but they are keys to thriving and incredibly valuable.

3. Transfer Skills
   It’s not just about technical skills, which might not always transfer from one setting to the next. Skills such as communication, problem-solving, and adaptability are valuable in any job market. Emphasize these transferable skills on your resume and in interviews. Employers are often looking for candidates who can navigate change effectively.

4. Flex
   Consider roles that may fall outside your initial area of expertise. Being open to different positions or industries can lead to unexpected career pathways and help you diversify your skill set. Our placement team is constantly suggesting opportunities that a candidate did not realize were even an option, but that make a great deal of sense.

5. Read
   Don’t just check out social media for your information, but make a genuine attempt to keep up with industry trends and changes in the job market. Learn what employers are facing, and you’ll be better able to position yourself as a solution to their needs.

The Take-Away

Uncertainty is a normal part of today’s workplace but doesn't need to stop business clients or job seekers from moving forward and succeeding. Both groups can train themselves to handle unpredictability better. The skill to adapt during change is important in the modern workforce; it’s where we get innovation and new opportunities.