In today’s economy, it’s hard to predict what will come next. With the job market struggling and businesses slashing budgets, making decisions about your career – or your business – may seem nearly impossible.
Have more to say about the economy, job market, or business world? Share your thoughts in the comments section.
Our lodging & convention facility is taking a few risks, as a huge renovation was already in place before the economic crisis hit our area hard, but we are continuing with plans and even expanding parts. We have also hired more people at a higher wage. We have begun an intensive customer service training year round. We are marketing just as aggressive as we would at any other time. We have hired a sales/business development director to pursue big events and create our own events to fill convention space and sleeping rooms.
The new owners are hoping that when the economy recovers we are ready and have the best people on staff, with the best customer service, and will have secured events that our competitor has not continued to a relationship with because they are playing it safe...We will have an edge on competition by creating our own events.
Posted by: LS | February 03, 2009 at 04:10 PM
If you are young, have a good job that appears secure and enough in savings to cover at least a year of expenses if you were to become unemployed it may be an excellant time to take some investment risks. Stocks will never be cheaper and it is an opportunity to make some good investment choices that will pay off over the long term but you need 10-20 years before you need the money to let it give you the most for your money.
Posted by: Pat Paasch | February 04, 2009 at 01:32 PM
I looked at this as whether I am taking bigger risks when looking for a position. I am applying to positions I would not have been assertive enough to post to before. It has built my confidence and eventually it will build my new career.
Posted by: Mary Meginnes | February 04, 2009 at 01:41 PM
@ LS - Great example of how taking a risk may help your business in a time like this. Hope it pays off big!
@ Pat - This is an excellent point - and thanks for taking this question to another level by reminding us that taking risks doesn't just come in business or career.
@ Mary - Another great example. As a job seeker, now is the time to go big! Best wishes in your job search!
Posted by: Tiffany - Express Job Blogger | February 04, 2009 at 01:58 PM
The government is looking to build up the economy? I think education is the way to go. I'm finding it difficult to find a potential employer because of education requirements. Many good businesses are looking for workers with a degree "BUT" at least working towards a Bachelors Degree if not having attained it. I have an Associates Degree and finding it is not enough to impress employers. The government should help provide financial aid to help those who would like to further their education. I have no choice but to go back to school, but school is an exspensive solution. Government helps make it feasible, I believe people will flock to the opportunity!
Posted by: Preston Wallace | February 04, 2009 at 11:57 PM
Hi – I just wrote a very good article on dealing with conflict at work. Here is a link:
http://thelittlehelper.wordpress.com/2009/02/05/what-to-do-when-you-get-a-nastygram/
Let me know what you all think!
Posted by: Sheila | February 05, 2009 at 11:49 AM
This "recession" has been going on for a long time. I hope that things get better for all of us in the next few weeks. As I am into my 12th month of job searhing with over 2100 resumes and 35 interviews & still looking.
John Newman, Jr.
Posted by: John Newman, Jr. | February 05, 2009 at 11:52 AM
I am 52 years old and at this point the industry that I have worked in for 30 years (Roof Truss Design Engineer) is basically non-existent. I am having to take some risks, as in go back to school, reinvent myself, etc. Risks are part of the forward trajectory I am in. I cannot remain unemployed in hopes that things change. My industry is gone. I hope risks are worth taking!
Posted by: Ed | February 10, 2009 at 10:51 AM
You have to realize that a lot of us are already unemployed; in my case, for most of the past 2 years. Of course I am taking risks. What other choice do we have?
Posted by: Mark Harder | February 17, 2009 at 01:36 AM
am in Ghana and no work to do to take care of my children school fees and other things that i will do to help them to copy up with life.
Posted by: rahinatu iddrisu | February 17, 2009 at 06:00 AM
It's risk taking time for sure! It's been many years since I've looked for my next opportunity or promotion--they've always looked for me. Time to step out there and ask for opportunities now! :-)
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Posted by: kim1987 | February 25, 2009 at 02:52 AM
I understand the urge to play it safe. Certainly no one wants to feel even more insecure in these changing times.
However, I really agree with those that say they're using the opportunity to apply for positions they wouldn't have had the nerve for in the past.
You have nothing to lose by increasing your opportunities.
Thea C
Posted by: Thea Constantine | March 01, 2009 at 12:25 PM
I feel that taking a risk is the order of the day. Playing it safe will not allow for growth and opportunity. The economy is somewhat frightening, but it should not stop you from exploring what is out in the business world. You will never know, unless you fulfill your asperations. I often use this quote "You do, or your don't, there is no try". Go for it.
Posted by: Cathy Porteous | March 05, 2009 at 10:57 AM