Survival of the fittest. That’s your mantra for today’s tough economic times.

The days of standing around at the water cooler, taking long lunches and just getting by with your current skill set are over. Now isn’t the time to try to fly under the corporate radar.

Whether you want to keep your current job or plan to transition into a new career, now is the time to stand up, stand out and be noticed. That can be a problem if you are used to a “9-5 mentality.” If you want to step into the realm of operating in excellence, here are ten ‘no-nonsense’ tips to position yourself for that level of success.

1) Make a Determined Decision:

Depending on your current situation, you may have to make quite a few changes, but you’ll be glad you did. Determine to change everything about your performance that is average or ho-hum. You may need to come in a few minutes early, stay a little later and volunteer to help out more. Do whatever it takes to stand out from the crowd.

2) Attitude is Everything:

Now is the time to show up to work eager and excited to be there. Be an encourager, not a complainer.

If there is a problem in an area, look at it as an opportunity to be a “solution provider.” Don’t just go to your employer or supervisor with the problem. Figure out a workable solution before discussing the situation. This will demonstrate that you have a direct interest in the overall performance of the company as well as keen problem solving skills.

3) Be Productive:

Finish your tasks quickly and effectively but don’t cut corners. Always do quality work. Practice time management skills and organize each day as efficiently as possible. Be a ‘get it done’ person.

4) Be a Team Player:

Once your projects are complete, see if you can be of assistance to anyone else in your department. Make yourself the ‘go-to person’ that everyone can count on.

5) Upgrade Your Skills:

This is one of the most important areas that can really help you stand out. The more you know and the more relevant and current your skills are, the more value you can bring to your career and workplace. We are in a rapidly shifting world. If you are in an industry, or want to be, that has made changes, make sure you are changing and continuing to grow right along with it.

6) Network:

Continue to build your professional network. Use the power of Social Media balanced with face-to-face meetings and phone conversations to surround yourself with successful mentors and industry leaders. Opportunities and important information will find their way to you if you keep strong lines of personal communication open.

7) Be Creative:

Do you have concrete ideas that can greatly benefit your company? By helping cut costs or bringing more profits to the table, you could end up in an excellent position for advancement. Just because you’re not the CEO doesn’t mean that you can’t THINK like a CEO. Become indispensable!

8) Speak Up:

Once you’ve taken the initiative to upgrade your skills and you’ve improved your level of performance, don’t sink into the woodwork. Blending in with the rest of the employees is the last thing you want to do. Remember, your boss is busy too and may not notice your extra efforts. Find effective ways to serve your ideas and leadership so that it directly impacts the bottom line and the team.

9) Are Cuts Coming? Take the Bull by the Horns:

If you’ve heard the rumors about cuts or layoffs, don’t be afraid to talk to your boss about the subject. Let him or her know you are willing to take on new tasks and find out how you can be more productive or useful to the company.

If this isn’t possible, stay positive and always have a plan B. Be open to new paths, such as transitioning into a completely different industry–possibly one that isn’t being hit so hard by the recession. Seek out career counseling and coaching to help you set a plan and direction.

10) No Fear:

If you do end up on the chopping block, you’ve got to hit the ground running. Get into ACTION! There’s no time for a pity party. Be sure your resume is always updated and that you tap into the relationships you’ve developed through networking.

Never let them see you sweat. Keep yourself motivated. Stay strong, positive and confident even in the worst of situations. Everyone has experienced setbacks in their lives and careers. Don’t look at losing your job as ‘the end of the world.’ Career transition is a beginning and an adventure. Dig in your heels and keep going. That’s the stuff leaders are made of.

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