I’ve been out of college for a year and a half now (has it been that much/little?). I’ve been paying serious attention to the future, and more importantly, how I should approach my career.
One of Marc Andreessen‘s blog posts has been the most influential and eye opening. Instead of the “if you had a million dollars”, “ten year plans” and other assorted theories of how to approach career planning, Mark has a completely different perspective.
I believe a huge part of what people would like to refer to as “career planning” is being continuously alert to opportunities that present themselves to you spontaneously, when you happen to be in the right place at the right time.
- A senior person at your firm is looking for someone young and hungry to do the legwork on an important project, in addition to your day job.
- Your former manager has jumped ship to a hot growth company and calls you three months later and says, come join me.
- Or, a small group of your smartest friends are headed to Denny’s at 11PM to discuss an idea for a startup — would you like to come along?
I am continually amazed at the number of people who are presented with an opportunity like one of the above, and pass.
There’s your basic dividing line between the people who shoot up in their careers like a rocket ship, and those who don’t — right there.
Personally, that opened my eyes. For far too long, I’ve been told to keep my eyes on the long term goals, and gather the tools and techniques that’ll get me to where I want to be. I’ve passed up opportunities because of this. No longer.
Thank you, Marc.
Read Marc’s Guide To Career Planning 1,2,3
Seth Godin Only Two Years Left – Can be applied to anything, but I’m focusing in terms of career.
Web Worker Daily (If you don’t subscribe yet, do so) Searching instead of Planning
Are you looking for full-time work? Are you set on DC?
Good Call Zvi.
I’ve found that the best possible thing you can do is make yourself available to friends and colleagues. When they talk about ideas, listen, give feedback, and keep their secrets. When they introduce you to someone, follow up. When you have the opportunity to meet up for drinks, do it. Keep in contact with good people and be willing to refer work around and/or give introductions to friends with common goals/interests.
It all seems like such little stuff… but when you become known as a somewhat clueful guy willing to kick around ideas for/with friends, great things will come your way.