It’s nearing the end of the year and the inevitable always happens. Companies make and announce organizational changes as part of the new year’s strategic planning.  For some people this can be great news and a welcome change. Unfortunately for one of my good friends, a re-organization announcement meant eminent doom.  Her company recently announced that her department is restructuring in January and she will not only be changing managers, but some of her responsibilities are going to be slightly different.  She is convinced that her job is on countdown and she is getting fired-and she’s sick about it.

If you think that your employment is in danger, that the powers that be are plotting your demise, here’s what you can do about it.

1.  Have a conversation with your manager.  Why get nervous every time your boss calls you into his or her office?  Schedule some time with your boss and address your concerns head on.  Without being overly emotional or aggressive, explain to your boss that you have questions about the recent changes and want to know what the long term impact will be for the department/company and also your position.
2. Ask open ended questions about your performance. You can ask questions like, “What are the specific growth areas I can work on in the upcoming year?” or “How can I add the most value in the upcoming year?” to show that you are interested in the long term. Listen to your managers answers and implement them.
3. If the conversation with your boss doesn’t go well or if you are still convinced that your days are numbered, there’s still something you can do.  TAKE BACK YOUR POWER.  Instead of being nervous and over analyzing every conversation, start taking inventory of your skills, update your resume, and reach out to your network. Have a back up plan if that un-fateful day comes.  Put yourself back in control of your career and what happens to you. You don’t have to leave your fate, your peace of mind, or your employment status in the hands of your employer.

If you think your job is in jeopardy, don’t wait for the other shoe to drop. Get your questions answered or create your own exit strategy, either way, take action and remember you create your own destiny.