I don't have too much work experience compared to many people I know (and work for) but I have done my fair share of switching. I have floated, consulted, been employed, worked for myself and even been unemployed.
Over all of this change and turmoil in my life there are certain truths that I have learned, the hard way, about the working world. I wanted to share these truths with the world.
1. The grass is NOT greener on the other side:
People tend to want to switch their existing job because they are unhappy with their current place. They look to other companies in an effort to find happiness, the truth is, it's not there! Have a look at the people who are already there, do they seem happy? In almost all cases, no one is happy where they are, nor will you find happiness. Keep it simple, work for the highest paymasters.
2. EVERY employer lies to you:
If you are expecting your boss to be truthful, you are dumber than you look. They will lie, cheat and cajole you to get what they want from you. False promises are a truth of life when it comes to employers and bosses. Deal with it, if you can't do anything about it. The best way around it is to get it in writing, that way at least you can embarrass the fucker when the time comes.
3. Bullshitters ALWAYS have the better deal:
The game is simple, the better the bullshitter you are the higher and faster you will rise. It has nothing to do with intelligence or ability to deliver, all you need is a golden tongue. My gut feel is, people (read management) believes that if you are performing a function well you are more valuable performing that function yourself and the guy that does not perform it well, well... you do the math.
4. You will NEVER have a work life balance:
Every place of employment will take as much out of you as they possibly can without causing liability to themselves. Unless you join the government, you will almost certainly have a 12 hour workday, leaving no time for the myth you call 'life'.
I won't depress you too much and leave it at just these core four!
Anjoy!
Z
