An interesting article appeared last week in BusinessWeek discussing how U.S. employees can work to keep their job on-shore and not get sent overseas.
It first highlighted the story of Matt Cavin. While studying abroad in China as a Theology major, Matt keenly noted that all his fellow students were busy studying English, Science and Math. This insight, coupled with his reading of The World is Flat, brought Matt to the conclusion that if he is going to have to compete with these students in the future then he better adjust his focus.
When he returned to the U.S., Cavin mapped out an ambitious self-improvement program. gone was his theology major. In its place, when he graduates next spring, he'll have no fewer than three bachelor's degrees: international business, economics and Mandarin. Cavin, 21, sees plenty of opportunities. He isn't running scared. But he's running.
While this article focuses on many non-technical professions (i.e. legal, financial), the premise for technology professionals is the same. The keys to keeping your job from moving off-shore are multifold. But what it all boils down to is the importance of the person doing the job. Face to face contact with your superiors and team members, the need for you to manage the work that you do. Put yourself in a position to be needed on-site (on-shore) all the time.
If your job is very repetitive and task driven, then you will want to start thinking about how to make yourself more valuable to your company. Don't take your position for granted. Always look to improve your skills and create value in yourself. If you are perceived as a commodity, then trouble might just be around the corner and you'll be 'Shanghaied'.
