This also brings up another point which is that being able to compete in a global economy requires that you integrate continual learning and improvement into your career. You need to figure out a way to constantly learn new things. You can do this partly by taking occasional classes, reading trade magazines, and attending conferences. Another way is to maximize a concept that H.R. professionals refer to as “job stretch,” that is, doing work that requires slightly more, rather than slightly less, expertise than you currently have. You can do this by volunteering to do new projects at work, suggesting to your manager to let you try an innovative way to do something, etc. A side effect of maximizing job stretch is that it makes you stand out as someone who goes extra mile, and also helps make it less likely that an employer would want to lay you off.

To help you know what to look for when considering an internet based home business, here are 20 questions to ask.

1.Is there a large market for products? 2.What type of person would use product? Nearly everyone or only people from a narrow demographic? 3.Are there a range of products to suit a range of human needs? 4.What is industry trend? Rising, shrinking or stagnant? 5.Imagine five, ten and 20 years into future. Can you see this product still being popular? 6.Is product one that is consumed by customers and need to be replaced on a regular basis? 7.Is product one that can build customer loyalty? 8.How is product delivered to customers? Drop ship from warehouse, over internet, or you deliver it? 9.Is there are proven business system, or do you have to create one? (ouch!) 10.Will they provide you with proven sales material? (links, banners, classified ads, sales letters etc) 11.Will they give you leeway to develop your own promotional material? 12.How often will you receive a commission check? 13.Do you get a large percentage of each sale as your commission? 14.Can you be notified electronically of a sale? 15.Is there a reputable sales tracking system? Can you access this online? 16.Is there training and support? Do you have someone to talk to or are you left on your own? Is this round-the-clock and both online and offline? 17.How long as company been operating? 18.Do they have a track record of meeting their promises to affiliates? 19.Is company listed on a stock exchange and meet corporate legislation? 20.Who runs company? Are they well respected and credible?