From the Expert: No matter your position or time in service with your current employer, everyone should be ready for an unexpected career shift.

And if you are let go, the next steps could come faster than you expect: You may not have time to log back into your corporate network to retrieve documents, or even to speak with your former coworkers before being asked to leave the property.

Here are some steps to consider:

• Back It Up: Keep copies of contact lists, along with emails denoting professional milestones or achievements, somewhere outside your work computer and/or network.
  
  
• Stay Up to Date: Keep your résumé current (relying on some of the material mentioned above). And remain engaged with changes in your industry outside your office: This could mean attending conferences or trade events, for example, or even participating in virtual training programs.
  
  
• Expand Your Network: Don't miss out on chances to reconnect with mentors and former co-workers (or bosses) who may be outside your regular sphere of contacts.
  
  
• Embrace New Roles: You may think your current position is safe, but the only real corporate constant is change. By looking to expand or adjust your responsibilities based on the needs of your employer, you may help protect your current position.