What is a vicious cycle?
Many people, including myself, faced situation during recruiting or career. This is how it goes,
- You want to get a job, but no experience
- You cannot get experience without a job
- Vicious cycle starts
Let's look at a simplified example in job hunting. You may want to score a full time job in consulting, banking, or tech, but it can difficult to get an interview because the positions require prior experience. However, you cannot get work experience unless you have done similar work. Now, the vicious cycle goes on.
Here is another example I witnessed at Deloitte. Many people wanted to get on advanced analytics projects because it's cool and had great potential. However, these people could not get on a project because the team needed people with relevant experience. They could not get relevant experience unless they got on an advanced analytics project. Again, vicious cycle goes on.
How to break the vicious cycle?
The answer is simple - create your own opportunity!
In the examples above, the premise that created the vicious cycle is that opportunities are given to you. I challenge this concept. You should too if you are facing similar situation.
Let's make it real.
In the job hunting example, say a consulting firm wants you to demonstrate leadership. But you cannot find any leadership position unless you have prior leadership experience. What is the solution? Create you own student club, non-profit, or start-up that you are passionate about. Make yourself the President or CEO and do a fantastic job. The vicious cycle is now broken!
In the work example, you may not have the relevant advanced analytics skills to get on projects. What is the solution? You can attend a bootcamp, where you can learn all the essential skills. Then, surprise your boss by showing off what you can create and getting recognized for the initiative you take.
I understand that it can be hard or confusing when you try to take an initiative and push beyond your comfort zone. The B.A. Hack is designed to make the process easier. All it take is that initial step.
Shameless plug aside, adopting the mindset of "create my own opportunity" made me feel meaningful about work and in control of my own career. Highly encourage everyone to try. Looking forward to hearing your experience, challenge, or thoughts.
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