What Might Your "Do Next" Be in Difficult Times

Viewpoint from Centralina WDB Chair Bob VanGorden

Current Events
I doubt if anyone could have predicted in January of 2008 that we would be facing the multitude of difficulties we are facing today in our personal lives, as well as in our businesses. If we could have predicted these changes, what would we have done to been better prepared? I am sure that if we could change the outcome of our actions, or should I say lack of actions, over the last twelve to eighteen months we would. I believe it is more important now to focus on what actions we can execute effectively to improve outcomes in the future, rather than reflect on what might have been.

“Become a Shortcut”
I read an e-newsletter this week that included an article entitled “How to Become a Shortcut” by Scott Halford, author of the newly released book “Be A Shortcut”. Halford writes: “harsh, but true; if you’re not a shortcut to something or someone in business, you’re taking up too much space and you will be replaced.” To learn more about how you might become a Shortcut visit: http://beashortcut.com.

After reading the article and listening to a podcast on the subject, I realized that if this approach were executed properly, it could be beneficial to everyone. I believe that one of the secrets of the success of the people that work at our JobLink Career Centers is that they are “Shortcuts.” They have become and will continue to be “Shortcuts” for the unemployed who are looking for a new career, or the employer looking to fill an important position. My challenge to you as we work our way through this “game changing environment” is to think about how you can become a Shortcut for your employees or your customers. It may be the difference between success and failure in 2009. To visit one of our JobLink Career Centers, visit the Centralina WDB website.

Comments

[Joni Liebel]

Hi Bob -- I love this idea and that you shared this. It may seem like a whole new world out there, but those who can identify their strengths and communicate what they can do to make others lives or work place easier, more productive, or profitable, will always suceed regardless of the economic environment. To paraphrase JFK we should ask not what an employer/customer can do for us, but what we can do for an employer/customer. Cheers!
Joni Liebel
Liebel Career Coaching and Consulting