Gaining something positive out of downsizing ©2001

          Downsizing can be devastating. The potential loss of your job can make anyone scared. But it doesn't have to be a negative thing. It is the perfect time to take personal stock of your attributes. Prayerfully consider all that you have to offer and then make a move in a new direction.

          Use this opportunity to plan a new career path. Develop those hidden talents into a new vocation. Maybe even venture into business for yourself. The possibilities are limitless. Turning your lemon into lemonade is a skill anyone can learn. Here are some suggestions to get those creative juices flowing.

          Those weekends spent on woodworking, painting, masonry, plumbing, gardening, car repairs etc., can be turned into an opportunity to contract yourself out as a handyman.

          Do you love to shop for bargains? Scour garage sales, flea markets and estate sales. Convert that talent into a profitable chic thrift, antique or bazaar shop. You can even run it from the garage or the basement! A little remodelling can go a long way in converting a drab eye sore into a cozy boutique.

          You can also run a shopping service for busy executives who don't have the time to do it themselves. Christmas, anniversaries, birthdays etc., there are always demands for this type of service.

          If you come from a professional, or specialized background why not turn your talent into a consultancy service. Your experience and tricks of the trade can help many clients plan marketing strategies, sales conventions, exhibitions etc.

          Many sales people are in a perfect position to use their many contacts to spread the word about being available. You can also use those contacts as potential clients for your professional services such as consultant, broker, wholesaler etc. Utilize your God given gifts in countless ways.

          Lack experience, or unsure of yourself? Then volunteer your services. Eventually you will gain the confidence you need to go out on your own. Many charitable organizations are in need of volunteers with various skills. It is also an excellent way to hone those skills into a new career.

          Why not go back to school? Get that degree you had always wanted, or simply learn a new vocation. Trade schools and community colleges are always offering courses designed for the self-starter. They are also good at helping you discover your hidden talents and developing them into a viable career alternative. From novelist to hairstylist and everything in between. Check out what they have to offer. Often the courses are inexpensive and allow you to take them when convenient to you.

          And don't be afraid to market yourself. There are many inexpensive ways to let people know you are available. Post notices at churches, grocery stores and other community bulletin boards. Newspapers, especially the small local ones have a good circulation and small ad rates, which makes them a bargain.

          Print up flyers on your home computer and deliver them door-to-door. Hand them out to associates, past clients and business acquaintances. Spreading the word to everyone possible about your availability will only improve your chances of landing work or clients.

          God gives us family and friends to help in times of need. Don't let pride stand in your way. Contact them and let them know you are looking for work.

          Emailing is also an effective way to get the message out. But you must be careful not to spam. Call before hand to ask whom you may contact by email. Be sure to include your name in the subject line along with a small bit of detail about the subject matter. If the person you are contacting receives a lot of emails they will chuck it in the trash bin if they don't immediately recognize who it is from.

          Just remember that you are selling yourself and your abilities. Always emphasize what you have to offer and not what you expect to gain. Accentuate the positive at all times. Also, don't ever appear desperate even if you are. Your larder may be bare and your wallet empty, but they don't have to know that. Present yourself as successful. If you believe in yourself they will believe in you too.

          How well you do in your new field will all depend on how much effort you put into it. Necessity may be the mother of invention, but persistence is the father of success. Keep knocking and the door will open. Keep at it and it will pay off.

          And to all of you out there facing this challenge I pray your venture will be all God intends for it to be.