What comes around goes around. Time has a way of repeating itself. The biggest concern for many people right now is finding work, or holding on to the jobs they have. With the economy taking some big hits lately, we are starting to see more job losses, layoffs, and company’s closings. In times like these you need to be very good at what you do and have more than just one skill. As a technician or a tester you have some very valuable resources to draw upon. It might not be what you think it is either. It will be your troubleshooting skills and ability to think on your feet and repair system equipment. The latest software programming applications you’ve been using won’t be as valuable a skill as using your multimeter and hand tools will be. It’s time to get back to the basics and build upon these universal applicable skills that can be useful to more than just one industry. There are companies out there looking for in house talent. What you have learned at one job may come in handy at another. Companies are finding that training their own technicians makes sense when considering that a skilled workforce is a proactive as well as reactive approach to ensuring a steady workflow. Reaction time and knowledge of total system processes is a valuable asset to companies who view time as money, and outages as loss of income. There is no margin for error, those who can’t deliver results don’t have the luxury they may have once had. Those who drag their feet also jeopardize not only their own situation, but also others who know that it is best to distance themselves from poor performers. If you enjoy your work, then you will find it easier to refine and build your skill sets than someone who has a negative or no caring attitude about their job. Remember, to periodically go back to the basics. Get your tools out and go through them. Are you an expert at using each one of the tools you carry? Do you have the right equipment for what may be coming your way? Can you do multiple tasks with what you have? Do you carry around too many tools, or can you get more done with less? If you can, then you’re probably a pretty decent tester, but it always makes sense to prepare for the unexpected oddball problems. Ask yourself this question; do you have a skill, or do you just shuffle paper? Which do you think is more valuable in today’s job market? Do you have the knowledge in your head to problem solve, or have you slowly lost your chops? My advice to you is to look at your skills like a hockey player; Keep your skates sharp and keep working on your skills. If you don’t, you'll lose your edge.
