How many times a day do you hear the phrase, “in this economy”? It was the biggest cliché in 2009. However, the saying, “what does not kill us makes us stronger,” rings very true for many.

By now, we should be finished pointing fingers and trying to figure out who is to blame, and we should start looking for ways to position ourselves at the top of this new economy. More importantly, many professionals are building systems to better protect themselves from future downturns.

We, as employees and business owners, have had to evolve in a very short time period. Liquidity, cash flow, customer service and now knowledge are some key words that need to stay in the front of everyone’s mind. Ask yourself, “Where do I want to be in this new business world?” If you answered, “I want be a leader in my industry,” here are a few items to consider.

Become Involved and Make Connections

Sitting behind your desk waiting for the next opportunity is no longer an option. Major changes are happening daily that have a major impact on our business. Getting out there and networking allow you to learn from others as to how they are finding opportunity in these changes or protecting themselves from them. Becoming your own local spokesperson is how you learn and stay fresh in people’s minds. As business picks up momentum again, the people who appreciated and benefited from the insight will be the first to call, and call they will!

Help Others with Your Influence

Our community has been very good to many of us. The best way to give back is to give our time and resources to the people of this city who are disadvantaged and need our help. There are more than 300 non-profit agencies in the San Antonio area that are struggling to help the less fortunate because many monetary contributors have had to cut back due to their own economic pressures.

These agencies are doing the best they can with the resources they have in order to continue to help their clients to the degree needed. Business leaders can be a tremendous help not only by using their influence in the community, but by contributing their business experience to help these organizations continue to succeed.

Any help given to these organizations is appreciated and fulfilling in a time when fulfillment is sometimes hard to find.

Educate Yourself

As deal flow has slowed for so many, what better time than now to become more educate? University classes, online courses, job certifications and even knowledge-based audio books are great ways to increase your knowledge and stay informed.

Becoming the best at what you do is not just knowing your specific role, but knowing what your clients do and what factors are influencing them today. We must be valuable resources to our clients rather than just another company providing a product.

Speak Up

Your voice needs to be heard in order to illicit the change that is needed to help businesses survive and continue to be competitive forces in the global market. However, focusing on what you are against will only get you so far. Educating yourself and others on possible solutions will have much more impact.

The biggest fear I believe people have today is fear of the unknown economic future. Positioning yourself as a leader in your industry by staying educated and informed, as well as supporting your community, networking and voicing solutions, allows you to have clarity and confidence in the future to come.