Tips for workers facing layoffs

If you're worried about your job, don't panic Ð get prepared. Here are six ways to prepare for a layoff, from Kate Lorenz, an editor at CareerBuilder.com, an online job-search site.

Get organized. Take home personal files and locate copies of your performance appraisals and other personnel records. Update your résumé so that it reflects all of your recent accomplishments and newly acquired skills.

Get what's coming to you. Schedule your checkups and tend to any dental or medical issues while you're still insured -- especially if you've already met your deductibles. If you've got a flexible spending account, turn in all outstanding claims to avoid forfeiting any balances. In addition, know exactly how much vacation and floating holiday time you have coming.

Get connected. Spend at least one to two hours a day networking. Call your potential references, friends, former co-workers and clients. Attend your professional association meetings.

Get searching. Visit the Web sites of any relevant trade and professional associations as well as companies where you'd like to work. Check print and online job postings to see what requirements are being asked for and note any gaps in your experience or skill base.

Get an exit strategy. The National Employee Rights Institute contends that employees have more bargaining power than they realize -- and not only about the amount of severance pay. Assess your situation so that you can negotiate aspects of the termination that will have the most value for you.