Many economists seem to agree that the worst of the recession is over. Some are predicting the layoffs and unemployment levels will begin to drop significantly by this Spring, but the economy has a long way to go before it returns to those heady days of the mid 1990s where business was good, business failures were low, companies were hiring, unemployment was low, inflation was low, and most people were delighted by the growth in value of their individual retirement accounts.
Many American workers still struggle with concerns about being laid off. Here are some strategies to help credit professionals build a more successful and rewarding career even during this period of uncertainty:

1. Enjoy your work. If you go to work hating your job, it will color your entire work experience. Look for challenges, new opportunities, things to laugh about, and tasks that are both important and exciting.

2. Set high standards. Don't accept excuses from other for failures, and don't offer hollow excuses for your own inability to meet expectations.

3. Establish specific goals for yourself, for the department, and for everyone working in the department. Regularly track progress toward meeting these goals.

4. Review the work performed and the progress made by your subordinates with them regularly. Meet with them formally at least once a calendar quarter. Find ways to recognize and reward star performers.

5. Develop a reputation as someone who:

• a. Hires well and surrounds themselves with intelligent, and upwardly mobile employee

• Gets things done - no matter how much work it takes.

• Does not give up - even when the task seems nearly impossible.

• Is respected by their subordinates, leads by example, and promotes from within

• Can speak to customers in ways they understand - even if they do not agree with your decisions or conclusions.

• Does not shy away from difficult situations.

• Is the kind of manager that is willing to listen to all points of view and to change his/her decision position in light of new information.

• Is not afraid to train, coach and mentor subordinates