Time to reflect
From time to time, life allows you to have time for reflection. I’ve been working for Bumble for the last 3.5 years, and recently, a layoff affected many of us, and we suddenly found ourselves out and looking for a new position again.
Ten years ago, I would probably go crazy trying to find a new job as soon as possible; now, I see it as an excellent opportunity to sit and reflect on my goals.
Experience is a good thing that comes with the years, if not the best. You learn about what you want, but more about what you don’t want.
I don’t want to join a company without a transparent culture that fits mine. Values are more than intentions — something more than a slide shown on hiring, repeated at every all-hands, and forgotten when the time to demonstrate them actually comes.
I don’t want to join a company where I need to fight with my teammates to grow my career at their expense; I want to be considered on my merits, not by who I’m friends with.
I don’t want to join a company purely to grow my income, counting the days until I can afford to quit working.
I want to join a company that sees in me a value that can help it improve, and that helps its people feel better as professionals.
I want to join a company that recognizes experience as a valuable asset and isn’t chasing “rock stars.”
I want to join a company that treats money as one of the essential parts of the business — but not the only important part.
My second action will be to start a new mailing list for anyone interested in what I have to share. I’ll write about my thoughts and the book every second week, sharing what I learn for free with anyone who wants to improve.
