(From Personnel Today) The recent economic downturn has changed priorities for business leaders, at least for now. Suddenly, boards of directors need to take drastic action as they fight for the survival of their businesses.

If you only do 5 things:

1. Be open to change

2. Understand the market

3. Network

4. Update your skills

5. Keep an eye on the economy

Top tips

• Ensure that the proposition you can offer around change management is prominent on your CV and/or cover letter. You need to be able to persuade potential employers that you are a guru on change management.

• Demonstrate that your strategic capability in the interview and the importance of people to the bottom line in times like these.

• Keep your network up to date and relevant for your needs. Maintain a longer-term relationship with your head-hunter - don't just pick up the phone when you need a new job. Social networking offers lots of tools but be discerning in terms of how you use it.

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