HR plays a critical role in any economic environment and most critical in a recessional economy. The keys to success are: stay close to the CEO, make sure your HR strategy is aligned with corporate strategy, stay close to your customer base, add value by testing the theories of the company, products, and services, know the business inside and out, understand the dynamics of the organization, know the managers, don't rest on laurels, think outside the box, don't get caught in administration, and most of all be real so the organization embraces you and your HR team.
I am sure each of you have additional comments on how to make sure your future in HR is bright and secure. Don't take anything for granted and make sure you make an impact on the business daily.