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All around us we hear of `lay-offs`, that dreaded word that has assumed new significance in today`s context. The next few months are going to see pink slips being handed out even to senior, trusted employees. Everywhere companies are `downsizing`, `restructuring`, `reorganizing` all recognised pseudonyms for plain and simple `sacking`. Your capability is not the question. It is the affordability that comes into play. Are you indispensable to the company? Are you irreplaceable to such an extent that no one can fill your shoes?

As a working professional, you have to be prepared for the worst. Assess yourself and list out your achievements and contributions to the company. Work out a strategic plan that can see you through the crisis. Try and increase your value to the company and make yourself so important to the company`s existence that no one can think of dispensing with you. Take into account both long term and short term strategies when planning your moves.

1. Take up more responsibilities in the day to day work of the company. Take part in important discussions and try to give useful suggestions that will be taken note of.
2. Be totally proactive - that is the only way to survive in difficult times. Remember, when downsizing activity is going on, it is each for himself.
3. Develop a knowledge base that few people would have. It is quite the best way to secure your job. Your credentials are very important. You may have graduated from the best university but unless you develop special skills side by side, you are going to be left behind in the rat race. Keep upgrading your skills. Go for short term courses relevant to your job and qualifications. Keep abreast of the latest developments and find out how people solve problems so that you can do the same with your company`s problems.
4. Avoid negative talk and never exhibit fear of failure. Maintain a positive and cheerful attitude and never try to sabotage someone else`s career while trying to protect yours. Remember that all problems have solutions and go about finding those with a positive approach.
5. Try to fill in instead of hiring extra staff - your boss is sure to notice your helpful attitude. Just doing your job is not good enough during these lean days. Try to find a task that you can do better than others and prove your mettle. Take on responsibility and never be slipshod in your work.
6. Your work should do the talking for you. Try to excel in some area where you know your boss is weak - if your writing skills are strong, undertake to draft his letters for him. It will make him notice you and appreciate your skills.
7. Learn to be a team player and participate in everything. Never be heard talking ill of others in the company. Represent your company in events and functions. Make yourself visible.

Follow these simple rules and you will find that you have truly become indispensable to the company even in difficult times.