Quit your job

More and more, people tell me things like this: "David, I've tried everything. I've explained why I want to create information online to spread my company's ideas. I've done a top ten list on what my company can do in social media and presented to management. I've asked my bosses to read your books and those of smart thinkers like Seth Godin and Paul Gillin and Larry Weber. I'm pointing out that we all make decisions every day based on what we find online. But they still won't let me do what I know is right by working on the sort of marketing you talk about. And they still insist on blocking social media sites like Facebook and YouTube."

If you face a challenge like this, don't fret. If it just isn't working and you know in your gut that you can do more, I've got news for you. If your company wants to hold you back from implementing the ideas you know are right—after you’ve explained what you want to do and why, then maybe you need to find a new company that will appreciate your talents.

Maybe it's time for you to quit your job. Now. Today.

If your business life is measured exclusively in terms of ROI, then maybe the best personal investment you can make is in a job search. Thousands of organizations would benefit from your enthusiasm. Many company executives lament the fact that they cannot find good people to implement online marketing strategies at their companies.

Your skills are in high demand. Quit your job and find a company that values them!

Many people escape the corporate salary world completely to become independent contractors. Or maybe you need to strike out on your own and build a business based on your enthusiasm. Millions of people start businesses every year. That's what Jonathan Fields did. He went from a six-figure, mega-firm Manhattan attorney to become a serial lifestyle entrepreneur, building a string of health and fitness companies that have changed the lives of thousands of people. "At some point, it dawns on you that the corporate-ladder is really more of a treadmill," he writes. "You run faster, work harder, climb-higher, sweat more blood, and push through stifling fatigue. But, in the end, all too often, you’re no freer or happier than the day you began."

Become a career renegade

Jonathan Fields wasn't satisfied with his career so he became a career renegade, quitting his job to pursue what was in his gut and in his heart. Now, just one of his businesses, Sonic Yoga is the top rated yoga center in New York City.

I wasn't satisfied with my corporate career either. I had been vice president of marketing for several publicly traded technology companies in the late 1990s, and even though I was making good money and well respected by my peers, the companies I worked for didn't want to implement my pioneering ideas to reach people online with great Web content. The companies I worked with were conservative and preferred to advertise in trade magazines, invest in expensive direct mail campaigns, and exhibit at countless tradeshows.

I escaped the corporate world in 2002. Although I didn't quit – I was fired from my last job as vice president corporate marketing at one of the Thomson businesses (now Thomson Reuters).

Today, I to sit on a few company boards, write books and magazine articles, blog, speak, and run seminars on the new rules of marketing and PR. Was it scary? Sure. But I'm having a blast. I'm making a difference in people's lives. I enjoy work every day. I meet interesting people - who comment on this blog, who interact with me via Twitter and through other social networking sites - every single day. And I've built a successful business and sold tons of books simply by implementing the ideas that you and I both know are right.

You can do it too. But maybe you need to quit your job to REALLY make it happen.

Comments

[Debbie Weil]

Bravo!!

[Pierre Fregeau]

Life is too short to work where you're not appreciated.

Like they say "do what you love to do and you will never work a day in your life" or something like that.

There's a great opportunity out there waiting for you, take it!

[Joe Pulizzi]

Amen David. Since I left my corporate job it has been the ride of a lifetime. The hardest part is taking the first step. There are so many talented people out there that just need a bit of faith.

You are right, now is the perfect time, and there is plenty of help out there.

[Dianna Huff]

Hurrah! What a *great* post. I quit my job in 1998 and never looked back. What I love about being in business for myself is not having to "ask" for permission to learn new things -- and implement them, too.

Like you, I love what I do. And I enjoy sharing what I know with my clients and helping them achieve real success.

[Tim Washer]

David –

I quit the corporate world in 2002 as well, but to pursue a career in comedy in NYC. Career tip: when you’re struggling with the insecurities of trying something new, all on your own, don’t choose a path that invites public heckling. After 18 months when I was almost hopeless, a friend who is an amazing career coach, Win Sheffield, introduced me to a book, “Targeting the Job you Want,” by Kate Wendleton http://tinyurl.com/69hs4r. Absolutely amazing, and a must read for folks taking you up on your advice. If they don’t get the book, at least they should read this excerpt on the Seven Stories approach. http://tinyurl.com/5fevhm.

The ironic thing is, through this book I discovered I could get a steady job working “comedy” in corporate communications. My wife was pushing for this. As an accountant, she’s not a big fan of unemployment. More irony, my corporate comedy gig is at IBM… and still going after almost 5 years.

Thanks for this post. I think it’s some of the best advice you can share.

[Tristam Wallace]

David - Good stuff. My initial reaction of "right...brilliant David, suggest people quit thier jobs in this economy!" was quickly overcome with the parallels between this and the reactions of companies saying "right...let's stop going to trade shows and post a YouTube video instead". Sometimes you just have to leap.

[JibberJobber Guy]

>> maybe the best personal investment you can make is in a job search.

Yeah, I agree. I got kicked out of corporate in 2006, and had made NO investment in (let me rephrase job search to) "career management."

If they don't like what you have to offer, and you are super frustrated, that might be the writing on the wall that your days are numbered.

I've really enjoyed being out of my own... ! It's scary, but it's a great option that we all face - some of us choose it, others are forced into it :p

[ejly]

Good thoughts here! I also think being ready to leave if one's job isn't satisfying can make one more effective at the job. FYI, check out Carlos Mencia's essay in Newsweek espousing much the same perspective. http://www.newsweek.com/id/170345

[Jonathan Fields]

Thanks so much for that, David! And, for sharing a bit of my "Career Renegade" story in your post.

Fact is, life's too short to surrender the big decisions, the critical paths and most desired outcomes to someone else or, worse, to the gray twilight known as conventional wisdom.

I don't want my life, my career and my legacy to be the convention, I want it to be the exception. Because, that's where the juicy stuff, the big revelations, the spine-tingling conversations, the lifelong relationships, love and laughter and the chance to create and impact people on a meaningful, lasting level unfolds.

That's where I want to live. And, you're so right, nobody gives you permission to come alive. That ball's in your court.

Thanks, again, for this great reminder! And, wishes to you and yours for a wonderful Thanksgiving :)

[Michael Ray Hopkin]

David, I appreciate what you are doing to help the world see the value in the New Rules approach. There are some companies that get it, and I'm fortunate to work for one that encourages (even incentivizes) me to write in my blog, speak at conferences, create a podcast and otherwise use the tools available today.

I had to go through an experience similar to yours to get to where I'm at today. Though a majority of companies do not 'get it,' fortunately there are some that do. And because of your influence, that number is increasing. -Michael

[Lisa Hoffmann]

The worst thing you can do at work - or in any life situation really - is sit around feeling helpless and frustrated because your job (relationship, house, etc.) isn't a good fit. Facing the truth and making bold moves is frightening - and incredibly empowering.

Thanks for a compelling post, David. And Happy Thanksgiving!

[Grant Griffiths]

As always great stuff and right on point. I am amazed at how many very talented, smart people keep pounding their heads against a brick wall in a corporate job. They need to do what you are suggesting and take their smarts and talent and go out on their own.

If one's job is not satisfying, why put yourself through it. You, your family and your new clients and customers will be glad you did.

[Paul Copcutt]

David

I think you hit the nail on the head here when you said "I enjoy work every day"

May sound idealistic, but should that not be what its about? I have not been happier (and more scared) since going out on my own 6 years ago - but I am doing what I love doing and making a difference and some money in the process. Yes I have earned more and had greater responsibility and security - but if you have to come in every day and have your values compromised or passions surpressed is it worth it?

Just saw this morning on CNBC the 6 figure ad executive who became a barista at Starbucks and has never been happier - even though he is divorced, living in a small apartment and been diagnosed with a brain tumour. Wrote a book and now the rights have been bought by Tom Hanks!

Just my toonies worth

[Hendry Lee]

David, I work for myself at home so I know how it feels about loving my work.

While taking a leap can be the next thing people should look for, I still prefer the "safe" approach.

Quitting "today" in this economic situation is a bit too unrealistic.

But definitely, consider this option. Life is too short to work on something we don't enjoy.

As always, I enjoy reading your post.

[Parker]

Hey David -

Good thoughts here.
However, one of the things that I worry about is that if someone can't convince people at their organization about new ways of thinking (whether those new ways are using social media for communications, or something totally unrelated to new media) what makes them think that they will have success elsewhere?
I hate to sound like a Debbie-downer here, but I think it is something that needs to be considered.

[David Meerman Scott]

Thanks all for such wonderful comments! Sure, the idea of quitting and/or going off in one's own direction may not be right for everybody. Maybe it is not right for you. However, if you're like many people I speak with who wonder if there is something better around the corner, now is a good time to find out.

[Newt Barrett]

David,
My small business analogy for those old enough: It's like diving off the high board into the swimming pool. Terrifying the first time, but more and more fun with each subsequent dive.
I remember my first moment of terror when launching our business magazine back in 1997. I was sitting at my new desk in my new office, wondering quite literally, "What do I do now?" And then I just started applying everything I had learned from the smart people I had worked with at Gorman Publishing, IDG, Ziff-Davis, and CMP. In the years that followed, it has been mostly joyous with occasional revisits to moments of terror.

[Jennifer Barthe]

Just what I needed to hear this morning. Thanks!

[Adi]

I quit my job at just such a company described in this article back in September. Still yet to find an appropriate replacement. I have a nestegg saved up to rely on in the interim but the lack of money is a concern right now.

[Jason]

Great post... absolutely spot on.

Thanks

[Josef Katz]

This post reminds me of a great post from Seth Godin titled Time To Quit. This was also a good reminder that the corporate world is not going to make you rich or let you do what you want.

This weekend is a great time to plan an exit strategy. If it doesn't work out no one is going to fault you for trying.

Thanks

[Marta]

David,
good stuff! together with my friend we really enjoyed reading this article and thinking of quiting our jobs at the very moment!

One thing really, there is that fear and quite blocking feling like...what's next?

We think it's probably the hardest thing here to do this first step....

Any advice here?
Mental support would be great!
Take care,
Marta & Agi

[David Meerman Scott]

Marta, Adi, Newt, Tim, and others,

You know, many people think a corporate job is "safe" and "secure" and that the entrepreneurial world is "risky" and "scary".

That might seem true if you are in a big company. It might especially seem true in the first year or so that you're on your own.

However, I like to think of an entrepreneurial career with multiple income streams much like smart investing. The best investors spread their money around - some real estate, a few stocks, maybe some collectibles. When the stock market melts like the past few months, smart investors take a much smaller hit than someone fully invested in the stock market. Or worse, those who have all their savings in Lehman Brothers stock which is worthless now.

When you have a corporate job, you are either employed or not. On or off. That's fine. I did it for more than 15 years myself.

But an entrepreneur can have multiple income streams - a bunch of clients perhaps or several different businesses. Add in a few royalty streams from, say, writing. You may have some ups and downs, but it isn't just on or off.

To me that's the ultimate in security and safety.

[Kellye Crane]

While I would have agreed with this post 100% 18 months ago, in the current climate I would not give the same advice.

It is absolutely true that "If your business life is measured exclusively in terms of ROI, then maybe the best personal investment you can make is in a job search." But I suggest that employed people find their next opportunity first (and that doesn't have to be traditional employment, it can be a consulting gig or two), before you quit.

Having been successfully independent since 1995, I've seen a lot of ups and downs, and all present unique opportunities -- you just have to keep in mind that different times call for different measures. I outlined my suggestions in a recent post "The Time to Think About Your Solo Career is Now" (http://tinyurl.com/5kle87). I'm a big believer in following your bliss, but had to add my two cents about the timing.

[Jeremy Toeman]

First, I've operated as a solo consultant 3 times in my career, generally all very profitable.

Second, don't you think that at a time when unemployment is rising, and we have a higher number of younger people in the work force with visions of entitlement swirling in their heads, that this isn't the best time to tell them to quit the steady paycheck???

[Ari Herzog]

It's important to separate quitting from a layoff. Layoffs enable one to collect unemployment insurance; if one quits, UI is not an option.

In this economy, depending on the career one has, it may be more viable to stick things out.

[Adi]

I have to agree with Jeremy. I too have worked for myself and did enjoy it, but the fact is when you're starting a business the odds are that outgoings will be higher than incomings for a while.

The whole point of this credit crisis is that people have borrowed too much. You're suggesting people forgo regular income for the irregular income of a startup at a time when people are already struggling to pay their way with the income they have. It's madness. Very principled, but madness nonetheless.

I was able to do so because I don't have a family to support so can afford a few months of no/little income. Had I a family however and mortgage payments to make I'd sure as heck hold off being principled until there were safer waters out there.

I've got your book and generally agree with much of the content in it, but this time I can't agree with your (imo) rose tinted view of the job market.

[seamus walsh]

David, fired? you are lucky. I was downsized in Sept of 2007- I always wanted to start my own company but with three kids at UVM the next September, Could I? Should I? Need I?

Yes. Yes. Yes. The best thing about it? I sleep at night and I can't wait to get up in the morning!

[Kathleen Delaney]

Great post! You are my idol and I have learned much in the last 6 months. I recently accepted another position in corporate america but my eyes have been opened!!! Stayed tuned, I know I'll be in touch.

[Mark McClure Coaching]

For most folks new to going out on their own, perhaps quitting the day j-o-b should be the tail end of a planned exit program.

Testing some ideas out as a "weekend warrior" can also help light the fire as well as provide experience and a reality check on "if it's to be, it's up to me".

An inspiring post. Thank you.

[justin locke]

ah david, as always a refreshingly candid and on the mark post. i also really enjoyed reading the comments from like- minded souls. IDEA: how about some sort of forum for your disciples to chat/share experience and network? webinknow on facebook? is it already there? -- justin

[Tajiana]

David-

You're probably tired of reading how great this post is - but it really is! I recently ended my arduous journey of job hunting. Many said it would be too challenging and I should just wait until 09 to get started because of the current economic climate. I'm still in my early 20's, so going out on my own is very challenging because I don't have a dozen years of PR experience under my belt. I started an LLC anyway. In the meantime, I was hired for an amazing in-house PR opportunity. Just weeks into my new job, I was offered a side writing gig that gives me an opportunity to "sell" my services through my LLC.

Moral of the story: Your blog is great, and for your younger readers... you too can create your own opportunities.

[DaveMurr]

Listen to your heart! Trust your intuition and leave no regrets!

Too true.

I will never ever again work for a company that does not appreciate what I bring to the table.

Thank you to Tim for sharing his story and examples of finding a comedic career!

[Brent P. Newhall]

Great call to arms!

I do agree that one may not want to quit *today*; might be wiser to *decide* to quit today. But let everyone know that you'll be leaving in, say, two months.

As they say on Manager Tools, there's no shame in looking back and saying, "And that's the day I decided to quit," rather than "And that's the day I quit."

Career management takes a lot of time, and if you don't have that covered (are you getting at least weekly phone calls from recruiters, for example?), you may want to keep your job for a short period while you shore that up.

But, man, yeah. Carpe diem.

[Jamie Grove - How Not To Write]

It's next to impossible to have a life, work a job, and launch a totally new venture. While quitting a paying job in troubled times seems like a crazy thing to do, quitting a job in good times is just as likely to get you stares at the Thanksgiving table.

In the end, you have to do what's right for you and push forward.

[Russell Tripp]

Oh man, I couldn't agree with you more on this one. I quit my job to do what I knew was right 6 years ago and never looked back. Is it scary? Sure, but guess what? My life now is actually a lot less scary than most of the people I know with "jobs" who are afraid they could be laid off at any moment. I've tried to explain to people before that running my own biz and having multiple sources of income is much less risky than having a job where I only have 1 - and that one is dependent on the whims of other people, but it usually falls on deaf ears. Oh well.

[martha]

Thanks for sharing the thoughts....

[Jordan]

Stop working to make sombody else rich. Leverage others time instead of them leveraging you. Do this on the internet here at
www.jordankeyes.ws

Seriously It lets you collect from 12 income streams all at the same time so when you have one ad on the internet or a search engine for your one site, you will get paid from 12 different companies. Free and easy, just advertise your site. I finally just quit my job and don't have to work again if I don't want to

www.jordankeyes.ws

[KG]

On a day like this, I really needed this post. Thanks for the uplift when I was so down...

[Justin Levy]

Excellent post David!

It is always a very scary concept especially in a poor economy. But, if you're not happy at your job then you should be looking for something bigger and better. Life is too short and we spend most of our time at work so we should have fun and enjoy it.

One of the most frustrating feelings can be when your ideas are not being listened to. If situations like this continue then you should definitely look for a new company who will value that opinion and where your personality is in line with their brand, product and environment!

[Jared Young]

David, I used to run the marketing department for a small business marketing company. When I had to hire someone I'd ask "what ideas can you bring to this company that will help us grow." I almost NEVER got any unique answers (most were dumb-founded by the question). I would have hired someone on the spot that said "I'd recommend using Twitter to connect with your clients and prospects online." Never happened.

PS: I quit that job and started my own consulting company for small business marketing... and I've never been happier!

[Stacy Lukas]

I actually just did quit my job for the very reasons described in this post. Like, 3 days ago. And I worked at a company that designed websites and even had the word "interactive" in their name, but they were anything but that. My boss was so against the very concept of social media that he laughed in my face and told me "my clients are older than you" (I'm in my 20s) and dismissed the idea. In the meantime, he's been grasping for leads and even hired a TELEMARKETER to find some. His anti-social media mindset is costing him his business and he doesn't even realize it.

I've had a lot of people in my area with small businesses and nonprofits come to me for consulting in social media, so it's looking like entrepreneurship is my only option. That might sound silly but seriously -- I live in Michigan, graduated from the University of Michigan two years ago with a degree in organizational communication, and haven't found a "real" full-time job since graduating. Add to that Michigan's got the worst economy in the nation and who knows how much worse it will get with this automaker situation. So yes, in the upcoming couple weeks I'm filing the papers to be my own boss legally. I'm scared to death, I don't know how I'm going to afford Christmas presents at this point, but I also know if I fool myself into thinking anybody near me is actually hiring right now I'm up a creek without a paddle.

I'm glad you wrote this. Thanks.

[David Meerman Scott]

Stacy - Keep the faith. I started my business in 2002 during the last severe downturn. I was fired from a corporate VP of marketing job. It too less than a year to be making more than before and I've never looked back. Keep pushing. What you're doing is right. David