On Friday we talked about companies with no layoffs, and here’s the reverse of that situation: 15 companies might might not survive 2009. The list is just an educated guess from the author, Rick Newman, of course, but he brings up great points in each one. Namely, the amount of debt each has incurred.

By contrast, the list of successful companies that had never laid anyone off made an effort to stay out of debt. That’s key to success in general, but especially in this economy. I think maintaining a healthy company in today’s world means more than just making a buck. It’s accounting for down times and being loyal to employees. That’s not the way it seems to work (and might even feel old-fashioned) but if companies could look beyond “this year’s profit” to the big picture, they would realize great employees ARE NOT expendable. (Despite what organizations seem to think).

What do you think? Would the companies that are in trouble benefit from the business approach of those who had never laid employees off?

Post from: Blisstree

Companies That Are in Trouble

Sometimes the right work/life balance situation can from the right job. A job, say, where you work less than 40 hours per week by design, like these jobs.

I have to admit, years ago I worked in banking and we worked 37.5 hours. We didn’t make a lot of money, but it was a great schedule nonetheless. Of course, banking has changed and adopted retail hours in the last several years, but back in “the day” it was a great place to get flexibility. Maybe one of the jobs on the list could offer the same.

Post from: Blisstree

Working Less Than 40-Hours Per Week

Looking for a new job in 2009? Forbes has released their list of the
100 Best Companies to Work For. Forbes look at things like pay, flexibility, benefits, and culture when determining this list.

While it would probably be fabulous to work at a company on this list, I think there’s something else we can learn from it. For example, look to see if a company on this list is a competitor of your current company. See what kind of pay and benefits they offer. Check out the flexibility and “soft” benefits they offer. Then see if your own organization can match it. Or come close. Sometimes organizations need to know what their competitors offer in order to stay current.

At the very least, a list such as this can tell you what’s out there at other organizations. It gives an idea of what’s being offered, so if you’re interviewing or changing jobs, you can perhaps negotiate for better hours, increased flexibility, or longer vacation time.

Post from: Blisstree

Best Companies to Work For