Are You Ready for 2009??!

2008 is over, thank goodness! But are you ready for new ups and down for 2009?

We cannot predict what is to come and if we are or are not clear of the housing/finance/auto bubble and industry impact trickle effect. However, we can ensure we have ourselves prepared for any curve ball that comes our way this year.

1. Make Sure Your Personal Brand Channels are Up to Date
Is resume up to date not just on your computer but on all the job boards? Is your LinkedIn profile accurate of your recent accomplishments and what you want to tackle next? Blogging or involved in list serves that represent what you enjoy doing for a living? Get your "Personal Brand" house in order ASAP!

2. Deliver Quality, Accountable and On Time Work
You need to set yourself ahead of the pack. The first step to doing this is being proactive in delivering quality work that is on time and within budget. Underperformers will be the first to go when any RIFs happen.

3. Know What Your Boss Expects of You
When did you ask your boss if you are doing what he or she expects of you? What about doing thing that will help him or her continue to build and grow the business or team you are on?

These are just career suggestions to keep you intact or prepared for the unexpected. People are getting RIF'd that are over achievers, so watch out for yourself in these tough times first and foremost.

Why Aren't You Following Your Passion?

Gary's presentation at Web 2.0 should inspire you to find the time to focus on what you love most to succeed.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EhqZ0RU95d4&feature=related

Why aren't you following yours?

Leader Selection Savvyness

As we have witnessed these last few weeks in national politics, who someone picks to lead has huge implications on the person who picked them, and if progress will truly be made.

So how do you pick and introduce the right person or people to lead a critical project or program so you don't hurt your credibility and set a positive stage for this new leader to make progress?

1. Already Proved to Walk the Talk
You can't risk bringing in someone to lead a critical project that doesn't have the right reputation for execution and follow thru across your company. If you bring in someone from outside your company this person will need to show they have done what you are looking to accomplish via another company.

2. Team Assimilation
Either promoting someone from within to lead a new role, or bringing someone from the outside in to make progress may ruffle some feathers. Especially if there are more senior staff who feel like they deserved the lead role. Have small retreats or meetings to bring the new into the fold of the existing team and if needed bring in an outside facilitator for this "assimilation" meeting.

3. Socializing The New Leader
You need to let your peers and other organizations within your company know about your new leader, why they are qualified to take on the leadership role at hand, and help the new leader make connections that will accelerate getting the job done.

Remember these aspects when you look to pick someone to lead your next big initiative.