Now that 2010 is upon us, we’ve had a few years to adjust to this shift in our economy, jobs, insurgence of heights in taxes, fees, charges and the like (I think I’ve gotten more automobile tickets in 2009 than I have in the total years I’ve been driving).  It’s now upon each of us no matter if we’re working a 9-5 job, have our own business, or starting/expanding a career, to begin developing new ways to generate more money coming into our pockets and bank accounts.  The idea of job security is no more – no news flash there.  People are constantly being paid less to do more, while the cost of living is continuing to rise.   With that said, it’s time to put on our creative hats and assess and focus on what makes us unique, what skills and talents on which to capitalize, and position ourselves in multiple arenas.

Now this does not mean you have to go out and get 2 or 3 jobs.  We must work smarter, not just harder – though I am a believer in hard work.  There are a couple of things to consider when expanding into other opportunities to make more money.

1. Who?  Partners, clients, customers, investors, employees, contractors.  It’s time to assess if people that you work with truly add value to you making money (and vice versa, but we’ll look at that in a moment).  How do the people that you’ve aligned yourself with bring a financial advantage to the table?  In a sense, focus on creating true partners with the key people around you.  See how a mutual win-win can be created so that you all prosper.  I like to look at any business or client that I work with as a potential business partner.  I look for those that have a viable business and possess something that I see as a benefit where working with them brings them more money as well as myself.
2. What?  What is the game plan?  What can be created or reworked that is new or uniquely different (that is a need or want) that can bring in money?  People may be spending less, but they are still spending.  What is it that they need or want that I can provide?  Look to package that in such a way that creates a demand for it.
3. When?  Now it’s even more critical to capitalize on seasonal offerings and catching those that will spend their money with you at a key time.  Everything from holidays, seasons, when people tend to spend on what you or your circle of partners have to offer are important windows of opportunity.

Initial small investments or putting forth time and work into things that can grow, as well as being flexible in working with key clients, customers and partners can bring in more bang for your buck as well.  Bartering or providing inexpensive give-a-ways are incentives that get people to spend money with you over time and bring in consistent and long term money.  In an age of utilizing multiple talents, feel free to also consider leveraging other talents, skills, products, etc and incorporating them into money-making opportunities.  Overall, brainstorm, assess the value, focus on key people, create a plan, and then work your plan and allow others to work it for you at their benefit.  This cycle you can reciprocate in multiple different facets, therefore creating multiple streams of income.