What You Can Learn From Katie's Bumpy Job Path

She was once here on Today (GE), will she be gone tomorrow?

According to published reports, television evening news’ first solo female anchor, Katie Couric, may opt out of her $15 million a year contract with CBS (VIA) before it is set to end in 2011. On April 10, the New York Post (NWS) stated that Couric, 51, may leave her post as soon as January's presidential inauguration. However, she may stay in the CBS family as a contributor to "60 Minutes," according to reports.

A CBS spokeswoman called the reports "speculative" and a network statement said, “We are very proud of the 'CBS Evening News,' particularly our political coverage, and we have no plans for any changes regarding Katie or the broadcast." Couric's personal spokeswoman also issued a statement on her behalf: "I am working hard and having fun. My colleagues continue to impress me with their commitment to the newscast, and I am very proud of the show we put on every day."

Despite the spin, talks of Couric’s exit are likely to continue. This in addition to the near-constant criticism she's already endured starting in 2006, when Couric was recruited to lift "CBS Evening News" out of last place in the ratings. Almost two years later, her broadcast viewership still trails news casts by Brian Williams on NBC (GE)and Charlie Gibson on ABC (DIS).

No matter how Couric's contract ends, it is important to realize that not everyone excels at every job they attempt. Many times employees decide that the job they hold is not working out. Sometimes, employers feel the same way. In any job and especially when starting a new job, be aware that the position may not last as long as you first thought. For this reason, career experts suggest that you always have a plan to find a new job, as well as an emergency fund on hand, just in case your job ends before you expect it to (as Katie's might).