Posted by Maggie MistalPushing your boundaries by taking smart risks is a key part of making a great living. What's a smart risk? One where your chances of success outweigh your chances of failure. How do increase your chances of success? By doing your homework. It sounds simple but can feel so difficult. Take asking for a raise as an example. Most people feel it's too risky especially in a tough economy. However, if you're a top performer who's bringing in revenue despite the downturn, you can make the case for an increase in pay. If you can't bring in new customers or other forms of revenue to your employer, you can look for ways to save the company money instead. Negotiating better deals with vendors or conducting meetings virtually can all help lower expenses. Showing you're part of the solution can go a long way to proving you're worth a raise.
Pushing your boundaries outside of work can also have career benefits. Recently I've been putting myself out there as a singer by doing cabaret shows off-Broadway. I definitely did lots of "homework" by working extensively with a voice coach before going on stage. What's been amazing is how my confidence has increased in my work because of my singing. Now I not only career coach my clients to go after their dreams but am a walking example.
So perhaps its time for you to take a smart risk in your own career or with a personal goal you've been wanting to achieve. You might just end up making a great living because of it. Tune in and call in for more career advice today at 2pm EST/11am PST during my appearance on Living Today with Mario Bosquez.
