Think Like an Entrepreneur, Act Like
INTRODUCTION
As an executive coach, I know the path to professional success isn’t what it used to be. In many ways that’s good. Today, there are more professional opportunities available than ever before. But to reap the rewards and enjoyment from a successful career, you must know how to acquire the skills
you’ll need for your journey, how to manage yourself in unexpected circumstances, and how to roll with the punches.
For decades I’ve worked closely with high-achieving professionals and I’ve learned that you can’t predict where your career path will take you. But you can prepare for it. You can learn smart workplace tactics and, at the same time, gradually build qualities that will bring you success.
For much of the 20th century, success seemed to be a matter of climbing onto the right organizational ladder and hanging on. Professionals were expected to be loyal and conform to institutional values. In exchange for loyalty, big organizations offered the promise of lifetime employment.
Now, the idea of spending your whole career in one place, keeping your head down, and continuing to do pretty much the same type of work seems quaint. Careers flow through many phases, involving numerous relationships, shifting skill sets, and startling change. Your career is likely to include many jobs. Perhaps some will be full-time
and long lasting, whereas others could be short-term, freelance gigs. There may be times when you juggle several jobs or businesses at once.