?SHRM President and Chief Executive Officer Johnny C. Taylor, Jr., SHRM-SCP, is answering HR questions as part of a series for USA Today.
Do you have an HR or work-related question you’d like him to answer? Submit it here.
I am graduating in spring 2024 with a degree in mechanical engineering. There seem to be a lot of layoffs in many fields, including engineering. How can I best prepare for a shrinking job market? —Sunil
Johnny C. Taylor, Jr.: Even in a shrinking job market, you can take steps to ensure your success in the short and long term. Honing your skills is just as important as cultivating your career.
Building your professional network is essential for landing a job in any industry. Conversations with others give you insight into where the industry is and where it’s going. Creating opportunities to have those conversations requires reaching out. Attending conferences, signing up for professional associations and checking in with university alums in your field can all help you develop important contacts. However, networking is more than just engaging with groups. One-on-one relationships can also have a powerful impact on your career. Effective networking leads to employment prospects.
Gathering relevant experience while in school can help you establish your career footing. Look for an internship or campus research opportunities. Think about taking on some volunteer work or tasks to apply your skills.
Stay current with recent developments in your industry. Read industry journals, attend workshops and conferences, participate in webinars and online forums, or get further training or certification. Consider different industries and roles utilizing mechanical engineering skills. Examine growth sectors, such as aerospace, health care and renewable energy.
Remember, getting an early start on your job search is vital. Give yourself at least six months before graduation to start looking. Stay positive and proactive. Motivated and skilled applicants can still succeed, even in a shrinking job market.
I wish you all the best in your search and your career.
My team is moving to full-time remote work next month. I am worried about losing out on my professional connections and jeopardizing my career advancement. How can I get the best out of my remote-work experience? —Oscar
Johnny C. Taylor, Jr.: Many people are struggling with this question in today’s world of varied work arrangements, so thank you for asking it. The truth is, working remotely definitely reduces worker visibility. As the adage goes, “Out of sight, out of mind.” Despite this, you can still advance your career while working remotely. However, it will require some creativity and a proactive approach.
Begin with volunteering for major projects or cross-functional teams within your company. This will help you stay connected and develop your skills and experience while working remotely.
Be camera-ready. Right or wrong, managers often equate low visibility with low productivity in the physical workplace, so turn on your camera when participating in virtual meetings. Face time, whether virtual or in person, makes a difference.
Demonstrate commitment to your own professional development by seeking opportunities to attend training, conferences and webinars to learn or refine a skill. Compile the list of skill development activities and get your manager’s feedback on which ones would benefit you the most.
Some employers require remote workers to come into the workplace occasionally. If that is a requirement or option, leverage the opportunity to be seen and connect with those you may not see regularly.
Be more intentional about cultivating work relationships while working from home. While it may take more effort than being in the office, it isn’t impossible! Make frequent use of available digital communication channels, such as email, text and chat. And don’t forget about the telephone. Reaching out to key people occasionally to say thank you or give a heads-up about a relevant issue makes a lasting impression. Participate in after-work social functions and ask your manager about team-building opportunities. Whether working onsite or remotely, being connected with your co-workers is invaluable.
I hope your remote-work experience is a positive one.
