Chicago Tribune Carol Kleiman Worklife Column.

By Carol Kleiman, Chicago Tribune Knight Ridder/Tribune Business News

May 5--How do you avoid being laid off?

It seems to me that in the present job market that's an important question to be answered, even if you don't work at Arthur Andersen.

Whether the economy goes up or down, whether unemployment percentages increase or decrease, layoffs continue to be a way of life for Corporate America because many employers see them as an easy way to save money.

But it's up to you to be proactive in order to prevent your own demise on the job, according to one expert.

"You are the one who has to take steps to avoid being laid off," said …