he old adage "do what you love and you'll love what you do" typifies the successful ISOs in our industry today. They believe in the products and services they sell. They enjoy the daily interaction with the public. They thrive on providing payment solutions to the business community. And they like the company they work for.

If you do not love what you're doing, how you're doing it and, most important, who you're doing it for, then it is time to MOVE ON. It's time to close one door and open another.

Easier said than done, to be sure - changing one's employer or affiliation can be scary. Perhaps the following tips will lessen the fear:

+ Believe in yourself. Repeat over and over, "I can do it, I can do it," and you might just do it. Self-motivation is strength.

+ Take action. Now is the time to go after your dream and not just talk about it. Moneymaking ISOs make it happen.

+ Make a list. Write down what would make you happy. Be specific. Be honest and be realistic. This personal profile will be an invaluable guideline to opening the door.

+ Research options. Look for the organization that's a natural fit with your business philosophy, your selling style and your personality. Check mission statements, company Web sites and profiles.

+ Ask around. Talk with colleagues out in the field. These first-hand testimonials can provide valuable insight into prospective employers and affiliations.

+ Build a business plan. Every successful company, large and small, follows a fundamental course of action. Get your goals on paper.

+ Set a schedule. By formulating a timeline for the move, you will stay organized and focused on your game plan.

+ Allow for setbacks. Don't get discouraged if after all your planning and positioning, you don't immediately accomplish your objective. If Plan A fails, go to Plan B. Your goal remains the same. The path to it might change.

Good Selling!^SM

Paul H. Green