With all the economic uncertainty and the snowy weather in Ottawa, it is time to build your brand, stay inside and learn all you can.  There is still a looming human resource shortage on the horizon.  The baby boomers are still going to retire.  Some have lost parts of their pensions, but my prediction is that they will retire from their full time job, take the pension and find some part time work that they truly enjoy, but are not slaves to the system.

You are in control of your own destiny and there has never been a better time to build your knowledge and market yourself.  Smart employers are locking their best employees in through incentives that are more important than money.  Think pride, belonging, adventure, influence and, of course, learning opportunities!

Keep in touch with the labour market.  You have to know what the opportunities are out there for you and don’t be afraid to apply for jobs you think you would like.  Yes!  Even if you already have a job.  That may seem selfish, but you have to remember that your current employer will probably replace you and if they don’t, then maybe you made the move at the right time.

It is your career.  It is your life.  Take control.

Stay interested and interesting!

John