Hopefully you’ve been focusing on generating your best work throughout your stay with your present employer. Whenever, company managers are faced with job cuts, they look first to those employees with marginal productivity and “casual” attitudes. They prize those who display “can do” attitudes coupled with examplary productivity.
However, during recessionary times, they are often forced to lay off even productive employees. If you have dodged the first wave of layoffs, but anticipate there will be more coming, you must be proactive and take the initiatve in protecting your career. Approach your manager and ask him or her what additional responsibilities you might assume in the wake of the earlier layoffs. Volunteer for additional assignments. Seek ways to expand your role within the company. The more you can make yourself invaluable, the greater the chance you will escape the pink slip.