Everyone should read Seth Godin’s Guest Blog post “Don’t Try to Get A Job.” (Alas, it is gone!)
I believe what Seth is trying to say is that trying to start you own small business stretches the mind. It forces you to clarify what your strengths are and provides an outlet for passion.
These are the things that employers are looking for. Risk takers, great problem solvers, passionate. This is how we all want to be seen by a potential employer, not desperate and vulnerable. So where’s the harm?
Miriam Salpeter, Keppie Careers, posted a strong argument against why starting your own business isn’t a solution. She contends that not everyone is cut out to follow Seth’s advice.
Nick Carcodilos, Ask the Headhunter, provides examples of how to put Seth’s advice into action. Nick says
“First, if you’re never gonna try to start your own business, you should nonetheless approach your next job like it’s a business.”
Thanks to Seth for getting everyone thinking. I see the challenge as most unemployed people are going to have a hard time getting to this mindset. It is a huge paradigm shift. However, I believe once they can embrace this new way of thinking, it will be incredibly liberating and empowering!
Hannah Morgan speaks and writes about job search and career strategies. She founded CareerSherpa.net to educate professionals on how to maneuver through today’s job search process. Hannah was nominated as a LinkedIn Top Voice in Job Search and Careers and is a regular contributor to US News & World Report. She has been quoted by media outlets, including Forbes, USA Today, Money Magazine, Huffington Post, as well as many other publications. She is also author of The Infographic Resume and co-author of Social Networking for Business Success.
