It’s 2009! Now What?

Guess what, you survived 2008!

No matter where you are right now, you will probably agree that we may have some more shaky times ahead in 2009 before we completely see the bottom.  It’s predicted that CIOs will look to help companies save money by cutting consulting, hardware and software expenses.  This means some software purchases may go on hold or less licenses maintained, equipment being returned or refurbished, and staff members taking on work consultants normally take on for longer hours for staff and less work for consultants.

But, there are also lots of opportunities and more to come.  Here are some things to consider looking into so you stay off the reduction list:

1. Refurbish any equipment lying around

While it may not be of use to you, others will more likely be on the market for cheaper yet equivalent technology in older hardware skins.  See if you can add more memory or a better processor to make it more appealing to a new more expensive equivalent.

2. Focus on where you add value

What are you excellent at?  Continue to focus on and find opportunities to apply and show off your talents to show you are one to keep around when the next RIF occurs.  When your boss, company CEO and/or clients present you with their 2009 goals and objectives, determine where you fit in the picture and ask to take on a particular role or responsibility beyond what you are already assigned to do to help demonstrate your talents and capabilities being part of the team.

3. Gain new skills

Why wait any longer - look to enroll in either local college, training program or online options to obtain new skills.  Before doing so determine how you are going to apply those skills either on the job or on side or volunteer projects so you can prove to someone looking at your resume you really can apply what you learned in the classroom.  Also check to see if your company will pay for your education before enrolling - many do.  This will also show your employer or clients you are constantly willing to grow and learn.

Don’t forget about “indirect” skills you can apply on the job - for example I took a few creative writing classes last year to build up to writing a novel.  While I do have the longer term goal of publishing a novel at some point, shorter term I can apply the techniques I learned to write a novel to how I tell a story via a presentation to a prospect or sales audience about how my team did a great job adding value to a client of ours.

It’s 2009 - go have fun and stay ahead!