Despite the doom and gloom today, a deep recession can be a source of new opportunity, since many people who can’t find work are looking for other ways to make money. Thus, this can be a better time than ever to think about your skills, what people need today, and find a fit between what you offer and these needs – all keys to successful professional development. In effect, you are looking for new products and services and a new way of branding yourself to provide value others want in these difficult times.

To appeal to today’s market, think of start-up possibilities you might launch yourself — or look into direct sales programs you might represent with products or services people might need and want. But be extra cautious of scammers promising riches through pyramid schemes or too good to be true investments or income opportunities. Instead, look for companies with solid products or services that people really do want to buy, aside from any money making opportunities. Since so many people are out of work now, this is an especially good time for starting a new business with talented people you can employ at lower than usual starting wages.

In short, if you can’t find work for yourself now, consider creating your own company and work opportunity for others. To this end, take some time to ask yourself some questions to decide what you want to do:
- What kind of skills and talents do I have? List your strongest ones and prioritize by ranking them from 1 (highest) to 5 (lowest) which you would most like to use now?
- What do people especially need now that they aren’t getting from other companies or individuals?
- How can I apply my skills and talents to providing products or services to help others fulfill their needs and wants? Do this for each of your top skills and talents first; then go on to the next highly ranked group for still more ideas.
- What steps can I take to develop, promote, and provide these products and services? Create a list of steps to take.
- What do I need to put these steps into action, such as employees, materials, and contacts with other companies or individuals?
- Finally, put these steps into action. Start now by taking the first step.

For more ideas on how to achieve what you want and improve yourself through professional development, you can see some chapters from my books Want It, See It, Get It (www.wantitseeitgetit.com). And to help you have fun doing this, see Enjoy: 101 Little Ways to Add Fun to Your Work Everyday (www.enjoythebook.com).

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Gini Graham Scott, Ph.D. is the author of over 50 books and a seminar and workshop leader, specializing in work relationships and personal and professional development. Her latest books include Want It, See It, Get It and Enjoy! 101 Little Ways to Add Fun to Your Work Everyday, both from AMACOM.

     

More on Topics: Opportunity, Professional Development, Skills and talents

Tags: Opportunity, Professional Development, Skills and talents

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