I have heard this phrase more times than I can count: "It was raining, so I quit"
It might seem like common sense to some, but businesses rarely close because of the weather. Even blizzards that close all the schools in the district don't ensure that grownups get the day off. And they never close for rain. Ever.
If a subway station is flooded or a train isn't running, it's incredibly inconvenient because you're still expected to show up for work. If you don't show up, there is a high probability that you will be asked not to return. If other potential employers ask how your last job ended and you say, "It was raining, so I quit," they won't call you again. Ever.
Here are a few tips to ensure you can work around the weather, whatever it may be. These are particularly important in big cities like New York where most people have to rely on not-always-reliable public transportation.
- Each week, check out the 5-day forecast on TV or online. On days when rain is expected, set aside extra time by getting up early and leaving early for work.
- Keep an umbrella in your bag or where you can grab it easily on your way out the door.
- Have a backup plan (or three) for how to get to work. If the subway is flooded, know which bus route can get you to the office or to a subway station that is open, or have emergency cab fare or the number of a friend who can drive you.
- Have phone numbers for your boss and the place where you work saved to your phone. If you're running late because of weather, call and let them know or leave a message. If you're working for an employment agency like GoodTemps, let the agency know as well.
One of the worst possible reasons for losing your job is one day of bad weather. With a little planning, you can make sure rain never gets in the way of collecting a paycheck.
Carissa Doshi is a business writer and the president of Gen Y Media Group. She gives career advice and blogs about her experiences on www.carissadoshi.com. You can also follow @CarissaDoshi on Twitter.