People complain about blue collar workers being out of work (they are), or finding a way to bring manufacturing back (you can\u2019t), or some other way to revitalize our 20th century view of the middle-class.<\/p>\n
Sorry, it's gone. \u00a0It's not coming back.<\/p>\n
In a crowded marketplace, fitting in is failing.\u00a0 In a busy marketplace, not standing out is the same as being invisible. \u2013 Seth Godin (Purple Cow)<\/strong><\/p><\/blockquote>\n
Why would I hire someone for $10.00 an hour when I can outsource for $1.50 (and still receive comparable quality work)? \u00a0When the only task I need accomplished is menial and brainless \u2013 a commodity \u2013 why would I pay a premium?<\/p>\n
On the other hand, if that employee can move on his own, develop and execute his own plans, instigate and start projects, create and ship his own work - why wouldn't I pay a premium. Why wouldn't I pay top dollar for someone with the brains and courage to expand the brand, product or service on his own, with minimal guidance from upper management?<\/p>\n
In the 20th century, the majority of workers made a compromise; they accepted minimal wages in exchange for brainless, consistent work. \u00a0 The offer was compelling \u2013 show up to a certain location, at a certain time, for a certain duration, day after day, and in exchange you don't have to think to earn a wage (and you might even get healthcare and a 401k).<\/p>\n
The industrial age created a robot factory of average employees.\u00a0 The factory setting (and factory mentality) worked during the industrial age.\u00a0 It won\u2019t work now.<\/p>\n
Once again, those jobs aren't coming back (no amount of federal quantitative easing could fix that - and that only sets us up for some painful inflation down the road).<\/p>\n
If all you offer is the commodity of your time, guess what?\u00a0 So do millions of people around the world.<\/a><\/p>\n
There is no reason (for an employer OR the customer) to pay a premium for a commodity.<\/p>\n
So what now?<\/p>\n
Stand out, be disruptive, be someone who can\u00a0connect the dots on their own and can start without guidance.\u00a0 The only way to thrive in the new economy is to be an instigator.<\/p>\n
Here's the catch: We can't tell you how. \u00a0If we could, we wouldn't need you.<\/p>\n