6. Enhance your skill set.
You’ve got what it takes to do the job you’re doing. Obviously.

But why not enhance your skill set to make yourself even more valuable to your team? Or better at your job? Faster? Maybe learning some basic HTML or Photoshop would allow you to take on the task of creating your company newsletter?

Whatever your industry, there is always room for improvement. Now is a great time to explore any additional skills that will turn you into an indispensable employee. And with so much information out there, you can do so at a minimal cost. If you can’t afford to take a night class, buy a book (or check one out from the library!) or take an online tutorial.

And once you become a master at your chosen skill, you can offer to lead a workshop for the entire team. Voilà. You’ve just become a leader!

7. Work well with others.
It may sound cheesy, but think of your workforce as a family. After all, you spend eight hours a day together, you depend on each other for the survival of the business, and you have no choice but to at least tolerate one another

Now more than ever, effective collaboration is seen as a key driver of success. So put aside differences in age, background, and interests and learn how to communicate effectively with your teammates.

It’s not just the company’s survival that depends on it—it’s your own.

8. Watch your back.
Think your boss doesn’t notice all those personal calls? Or how much time you spend on Twitter? Think again. Often, they’re paying closer attention than you think. And if ever they suspect you’re wasting their time, they can easily look up phone, email, or Internet records.

Now is not the time to be sloppy about personal communications on the job.

Depending on your office, it might be okay to take the occasional, quick phone call or to send an email or two on your lunch break. But if you’re on Gmail every time your boss walks up to your desk, you’re asking for trouble.

9. Keep time off to a minimum.
If you’ve got strep throat, stay home. Is your sister getting married? Go ahead and take a few days off (the wrath of Bridezilla = scarier than being fired).

It’s not that you shouldn’t take time off. It’s just that you should try and be a little more particular about your reasons, especially if your company is experiencing cutbacks. Don’t call in sick for a hangover or plan any long, extravagant vacations (at least until the waters settle).

A weeklong trip to the Bahamas sounds fun, but coming back to no job will be anything but.

10. Be visible.
Modesty is a sweet quality. Except, of course, in a recession.

If you’re working late, helping others, and/or coming up with new, killer ideas, make sure someone (other than your mother) knows about it.

Give your manager regular updates on your progress. Even a weekly or semi-weekly recap of your accomplishments, sent by email, will do the trick. You’re not bragging, you’re just making sure they know what you’ve been working on.

Let’s face it: if you don’t toot your own horn, no one else will.

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