How to keep your job during a recession.

I’m not sure if we are in a recession or not. I am aware that many companies have downsized. Some companies have gone out of business. My local mall is a great example. Several of my favorite stores have closed in the mall. These included the pet shop, dollar tree, toy store, bookstore, Steve and Barry’s and many others. There could be many reasons for these stores closing.

The big point is anything can happen.

Businesses come and go.

We, recreational therapists work in a variety of settings. Many work in hospital settings. I’d imagine that administrators may consider cutting our services first if they were faced with budget decisions because they make perceive us as “recreation” and not needed.

It is very important for all recreational therapists to have measurable treatment goals and clear outcomes that are aligned with the patient’s medical need. Evidenced-based practice is very important. Healthcare is expensive and services that are not bringing about outcomes related to patient’s issue are deemed as “not needed.”

In my own biased opinion as a recreational therapist, I know we provide a much needed service and that our patient outcomes are tremendous. And we must advocate for that.

Here are some more tips on keeping your position during a recession.

I was reading a blog called ESL – Toronto – Learning English.

Faryal Humayun had posted seven tips for keeping a job during a recession at the ESL – Toronto Blog.

In a nutshell, here are the tips:

Give something extra. Do more.
Arrive early and leave late
Have good communication with your supervisors
Develop your skills and abilities so you’ll have more to offer
Avoid gossip at the company
Keep informed. (Know what is going on).
Make contacts. (Make friends).