The economy is a little like the weather — if you stay around long enough, it will change. Whether it's a bull or a bear market, it's always a good idea to take a look at where you are in your present job to see if there are ways you can make yourself more employable — or at least less expendable.

Who's responsible for composing your company's correspondence? If you're not smiling, it must be you. While many would rather have a root canal, writing a letter doesn't have to be intimidating. All it takes to write first-class letters is a little practice, also know as developing your writing style, and some careful proofreading.