Which Jobs Will Face the First Layoffs?

It’s a scary time in America - unemployment is rising, and things are getting harder to buy. Layoffs are becoming a sad necessity for many companies, and employees wonder who will be next to get the ax. CNN answers the question:

• First come is not first served: Years ago, people were laid off in order of seniority - they newest employees were the first to go. Today, employers are much more concerned with keeping their best talent, and that could mean a 20-year company veteran or the 22-year old recent graduate who just joined 2 months ago.
• The highest paid: When companies are trying to dig themselves out of a hole, they often look toward their highest-paid employees. Today, they really need to be sure that their highest earners are worth every penny. If you fit into this category, now is the time to maximize your production as much as possible.
• Necessity means jobs: Companies hoping to maximize tiny profits will often begin by looking within, to determine which jobs or entire departments are superfluous. Unfortunately for many, if your employer determines that your job is not absolutely necessary to the company’s success, you may find yourself without a job.