It's a new world out there. (Credit Column).

It's a new world out there: our business environment keeps changing in response to the changing world economy. Information moves at the speed of light: corporate quarterly earnings are broadcast by email to mass audiences. We are all too familiar with the fact that corporate earnings drive stock performance--and, in today's environment, performance counts! To ensure solid earnings, many companies have made deep spending cuts with many of the cutbacks impacting funding for employee development and education. While in the short term, deep cuts produce results--its important that we, as credit professionals, don't lose sight of the potential impact that deep cutbacks can have on the future.

I think that we are the future. I know the value of continued education, exposure to new ideas and an expanded network of professional peers. As professionals, we should do everything we can to improve our professional performance. Don't take your present opportunity for granted; appreciate the job you have at present--and figure out what you could be doing right now to be prepared for the future. After all, your achievements are your calling card for the future--they determine your career longevity and marketability--and it's results that count. Make sure you're contributing something substantial and measurable to your department and your company every single day: and if you don't have the skills to do that--get them now.

What is the value of further education to your career? While I believe that constantly expanding your horizons through learning is worthwhile, consider the real purpose for supporting your career with formal qualifications. After all, qualifications on their own will not propel you to bigger and better positions at your company or in your career. But further education that is right for you will create a solid base for supporting you throughout your career--wherever it leads. In addition, in today's changing workplace, it may be what sets you apart from everyone else, or keeps you employed during the chaos of a corporate restructuring. If nothing else, it will stretch your view of the work world and how you fit into it.

I have always held the view that I have needed to stretch my own learning boundaries. Looking back now, I can see the input and influence education has had on my career and on who I am today. Each part of my further education has been aimed at preparing me for my next career step. Secure careers happen through effort and planning, but tend to punish indifference and lack of preparation. Those who don't manage their careers--who just let things happen--often end up in painful, dead-end jobs or without one altogether. Don't let that happen to you! You are fully in control of your own future. You are in charge of your success.

You can choose to strengthen your knowledge-base and career skills with short courses, professional ...