The Worst Career Advice: When Overworking Becomes the All-Consuming Norm

In the late 1970s, when I was 15, I participated in a 'career advice' session at my school. The clueless woman behind the desk suggested that I would be an ideal nanny. This advice, while initially amusing, left me shaking my head in disbelief. I couldn't comprehend how someone who had never met me or observed my rebellious nature could suggest such a career path. My nature as a slow-blooming rebel who loathed authority and frequently found myself in the Headmaster's office further distanced me from the suggestion of nannying. Despite my fondness for wearing an outlandishly 'tweaked' school uniform and makeup, having an earring cut out of my ear by a metalwork teacher, and forging sick notes for other pupils, I left the career advice session with a clear understanding of the woman's oblivious mindset. I left school shortly after, determined to pursue a path that aligned with my true self.

My Father's Instructive Career Advice

Several years later, my father gave me some career advice that seemed both insightful and contradictory. He said, 'Always give them a little bit more than they pay for and you’ll never be out of a job.' This advice made perfect sense in the context of his experiences. He had worked hard, and successfully, for years before his company was taken over and he was among the group of managers over the age of 45 who were fired.

A Lesson in the Falseness of Assumptions

My father's dismissal did not come solely because of his age. A visiting executive from the new company that purchased his previous employer asked my father, 'Harvey, do you know how many Jews are on the board of XXX?' with a subtle implication that that lack of diversity was the true reason for my father's dismissal. This moment underscored the complex realities of the business world, where personal characteristics could be the deciding factor, rather than merit or performance.

My father's experience taught me that working hard and excelling at your job is not enough. It's crucial to recognize that the business environment is constantly evolving, and one must be proactive and responsible for their own career and success. This led him to write an article titled 'There’s No Room for Loyalty in Business,' which I will discuss further. His advice emphasized that people work hard because they expect something in return. Disloyalty can be seen in failing to perform at one's best, while true loyalty lies in achieving one's own best performance.

Reflections on Overworking and Authenticity

The advice to 'overwork a little' is often offered as a means to stand out and secure a job. While this may seem like good advice, it can sometimes risk burning out and pushing individuals beyond their sustainable limits. Continuous overwork can lead to burnout, which can have severe consequences on one's health and well-being. It's crucial to find a balance between working hard and maintaining a healthy work-life balance.

In the words of an excerpt from my father's article, 'I would not be disloyal to my employer if I failed to do my best. I would be disloyal to myself. And if a company retained an employee in spite of mediocre performance just because he or she has 20 years' service, supposedly out of loyalty, it would actually be disloyal to other employees and the stockholders.' This quote emphasizes the importance of valuing authenticity and integrity in one's career journey. Employees must strive to genuinely excel in their roles and contribute meaningfully to the organization, rather than simply performing the bare minimum or relying on historical loyalty or tenure.

Strategies for Business Survival in a Changing Environment

To thrive in a dynamic business environment, one must adopt a proactive approach. Here are some strategies to stay ahead:

Continuous Learning and Skill Development: Regularly updating your knowledge and skills can help you adapt to new trends and technologies in your field. Building a Professional Network: Cultivate relationships with colleagues, mentors, and industry experts. These connections can provide valuable insights and opportunities for professional growth. Emphasizing Personal Branding: Develop a strong personal brand that showcases your expertise, values, and unique selling points. This can enhance your visibility and credibility in the industry. Networking and Collaboration: Engage in collaborative projects and seek out networking opportunities to stay connected with industry trends and innovations.

By following these strategies, you can ensure that your career is not only sustainable but also driven by your passion and authenticity.

In conclusion, the worst career advice is often rooted in the falsehood of assuming that hard work alone guarantees success. My father's story and his advice about the importance of loyalty and self-reliance highlight the necessity of recognizing the complex realities of the business world. By learning to balance overwork with self-care and driving our careers with integrity, we can navigate the ever-changing landscape of professional challenges.