So, in addition to getting off my chest my continuing rage at the conformist culture of mediocrity one encounters in the American workplace, I will say this: There's nothing quite like having a real skill. If at all possible, make your entry-level job one in which, even at a low level, you produce something tangible: for example, the proofing or editing of copy or the production of tangible new knowledge by, say, conducting phone interviews or doing research. That is much better than simply arranging the movement of suits from business-class seat to boardroom chair, in my opinion. The relevant motto here is not, I believe, "Bring coffee to power." You need a productive skill independent of their notions of who you are. Dig? If you cannot land a job producing things yourself, then find work assisting those who do produce things, so that you can learn.
Get a skill. Seriously fucking brilliant.
3 comments:
Yeah, the whole learning from superiors thing doesn't work that well when you're too busy doing their dirty work and/or are not deeply fascinated by what they do. But I guess that's why so many people go back to scool.
I find it sad that the only job I've ever been able to last more than five months at has been slinging coffee. I recently ended my Computer Science desk job career to go back to the hallowed halls of Starbucks, which more than slightly disturbs me. I suppose it is all about production, even if it's only the production of a Gingerbread Latte.
I feel pretty alienated from any labor or skills I allegedly do or do not possess. I think I'm going to take a nap.
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