1) Define your brand - that's right, you are more than just your resume', YOU are a brand just as much as Ivory is a soap. From your business cards to your LinkedIn profile you must also think like P&G about how to present yourself, in all of your outreach vehicles. Make an investment in your assets and show you're ready to play. (learn more at: http://www.personalbrandingblog.com/)
2) Be a specialist - people want value and are willing to pay for expertise. What is it that you do which is truly unique? What are your best qualities and strengths? How can you ADD VALUE to your customers? Think this through and you might really surprise yourself.
3) Set your intention - create an action plan. Yes, put it down IN WRITING! Half of the battle is simply realizing your vision. If you get clarity around what you want to do, then you are ready to set your intention. Believe me, if you set your intention it WILL be realized.
4) Invest in your website - your website is your most valuable business-building tool. These days, websites are very affordable and you can find free templates in WordPress, Drupal or even WIX (although I recommend designing your unique brand identity first). Even Intuit is in on the game...so no excuses - get started.
5) Get educated - learn something new that complements your business and serves your objectives. Just because you've achieved a certain level of expertise in your career doesn't mean you don't have more to learn. Gain knowledge in something that relates to your business - you'll be amazed at how it might change things for you in a really powerful way!
6) Build your network - remember all of those business cards you've been collecting over the years and are now collecting dust? Go through them all and start adding the names to your LinkedIn account. Then work it! Review your connections' connections and ask for introductions. LinkedIn makes it really easy to get introduced in just a few clicks. Just be sure not to overtax your connections and respect people's time.
7) Attend networking events - there are tons of free or low-cost events going on all around you that are potential business building opportunities. Interested in Sustainability? Attend an EcoTueday event. Interested in Nonprofit technology? Attend a Net Squared Meetup. Join a small business network, look what's happening at your local Chamber of Commerce and check Craigs List. Use Facebook to see what events your friends are attending. There are tons of options here.
8) Tell everyone! - the power of intention is released when you broadcast it so don't be afraid to tell everyone you know what it is that you intend to do.
Remember, opportunities exist all around you - you just have to remind yourself every day. The doors will open for you when you least expect it and the opportunity may not be ushered in by an obvious choice but rather, by a very unexpected source. Be open, be ready, and good luck!