Are you getting the most from your relationship with CU*Answers?

The CU*Answers calendar of events is planned for the benefit of your credit union throughout the year. Ed Callahan once said, "If you are not prepared for what is coming, you will be swamped by it -- you have to look out over the horizon."

The questions this month segue from CU*BASE functionality, covering just a few of the events on the CU*Answers calendar. With this edition we are preparing you to look out over the horizon, to get you in harmony with the opportunities available to you.

Designed for CEOs and senior credit union staff, what is this annual event?

In this gathering of leaders from CU*BASE clients, ideas resonate with unique opportunities to learn of CU*Answers' vision for our partnership through the coming year.

Where will you and your staff go to sign-up for CU*Answers events?

Leadership programs, training, and focus group events are orchestrated throughout the year to bring you and your staff industry education. Many opportunities will increase proficiencies and expertise in the use of CU*BASE while others provide peer networking, sales and marketing discussions, and project planning as discussion topics.

Data protection and planned procedures to assure systems are never 'down' characterize these events. What are they?

Systems are the leading act in our business and the major focus of yours. Two events on our schedule assure there is never a lights out in Operations and data is safe. One event is annual, the other event recurs multiple times during the year. You are notified of these events prior to their performance.

Which website functions as a newsstand rich with CU*Answers internal and Industry external information feeds?

Displayed as a series of click-through links, this website offers newsfeeds from CU*Answers, cuasterisk.com, the CU*Answers Ondemand eLearning Library, Callahan & Associates, Filene, NACUSO and many others.

What event was created to address topics and promote discussions on concerns unique to credit union CEOs?

This event promotes frank discussions with your peers. While part of the event adheres to a set format, much of the time is spent exchanging ideas and sharing insights. One segment sends you back to school. Which event is this?

Strategy and Vision are long term views lived out in the present.

The results you see in 12 months are attained in decisions made day to day. Take advantage of the experienced leadership of your CUSO. Participate in learning opportunities, mentoring, and professional consults. We've given a few examples here. Whether your style gravitates toward the rehearsed sound of a symphony or the freestyle tempo of a jazz club, get involved and expect growth even in these times of economic uncertainty.

Let me end with another quote from Ed Callahan. "When troubled times come, and surely they will sooner or later, you cannot make knee-jerk decisions. The latest economic projections for the next six months are not a good source of strategy. Instead, you must hold a vision and strive to achieve it."