As you look back on the year, is your career what you wished for yourself 12 months ago? Are your technology skills sharper? Did you invest in exploring new areas? Are you closer to where you want to be in five years? What did you learn about yourself this past year? What worked and what didn’t? What new areas do you want to explore in the coming year?

Rather than turn this article into a goal setting exercise, indulge me in another exercise — helping you to explore the opportunities for what 2009 might bring. Whether you’re unemployed and or just thinking about the next rung on your career ladder, accepting that you — and only you — hold the key to your success is your first step.

Expand your perspective.

Have you considered going back to school? More and more organizations are seeking IT professionals with a broad business background who not only think IT but can think business as well. New, tailor-made programs are popping up all over the country/world, designed specifically for broadening IT experience beyond the server room. Here are some popular online programs.

·         Western Governor’s University – IT MBA

·         University of Phoenix Online – IT MBA

·         Capella University – IT MBA

If you’re not up for a full degree program take classes at your local university or college. Extension schools offer unique programs for IT professionals that will help you develop your communication and project management skills in addition to your technology skills.

You are what you read.

What was the last business book that you read? Why not keep up with what the CIO is reading?

·         CIO Insight – Top Books for 2007

Develop your leadership skills.

These days it’s all about stepping up, making a broader contribution — and that’s right – leadership. It’s never too early to develop those leadership skills. Two of my favorite programs for existing and perspective IT managers/project managers/team leads include:

·         UCLA Extension Technical Leadership Program (5 days)

·         Society of Information Management (SIM) Regional Leadership Forum (9 month)

In my next article I’ll explore additional opportunities for you in the new year.