In the new world of work it's about differentiating yourself both in the workplace and in the marketplace. One quick way to do this, particularly in today's fearful environment, is to put more "skin in the game"--in other words, take responsible risks that can help you stand out in the crowd.

Responsible risks are the ones you're prepared to take without putting your personal life or your career in jeopardy.

Managing Your Career Portfolio

First, you'll need to ask yourself some questions as to the type and number of risks you're able to manage in your professional life.

* How much is going on in your life now-personally and professionally?
* Do you expect this to change within the next six months?
* How much personal risk can you afford to take?
* How much professional risk do you need to take?

For example, if your personal life is financially stable and you're not experiencing a lot of "life's drama", e.g., raising children, serving as caregiver for your parents, personal health issues, etc., you might consider diversifying your career portfolio by raising the bar for yourself and adding more "risk" to it.

However, if your personal life is chaotic it doesn't mean that you become "invisible" at work, but that you consider joining a low-impact team that stretches a few risk taking muscles. You might also invest in targeted training by either taking a few courses or fast tracking your way through a program.

Mixing It Up

You can differentiate yourself at work without changing companies or even jobs while positioning yourself for future opportunities. Even in this economic environment, greater risk exists for professionals who become stale in their jobs or complacent over time.

Remember that playing it safe does not keep you safe. By introducing some well thought out risk taking strategies, you could add just the right "juice" to a sluggish career that moves you forward by creating a new niche for you.

Consider adding to your portfolio by investing in new skill development, such as communication, negotiations, Emotional Intelligence, and relationship management. You might even take a few courses that add to your finance savvy or even add a technical certification.

While you're adding new knowledge, be sure to practice using it by either increasing your visibility as a team member within a high-impact project or assuming more of a lead in a lower-risk program.

Remember, your goal is to diversity your career portfolio either aggressively or in a more incremental fashion. Slowing your pace doesn't mean that you allow your personal risk taking abilities to screech to a halt.

© 2010 Dolores "Dee" McCrorey, risk taking for Success LLC. All Rights Reserved.