You've Failed? ...You're Hired!
by Joe Mayne

The constant changes that take place in our "Information Age" economy are most often caused by the high-tech sector. At the very least, changes can be observed here first. My research brought me to an editorial by Rich Karigaard of Forbes ASAP Magazine. He writes in the June 2, 1997 issue:

"Computers...now run the economy. Moreover, they throw free enterprise into warp speed. Without mercy or remorse, they slice through decaying business models, defensive managers...they humiliate economies like France's. They quickly reallocate capital to the bold. They elevate the industrious, they reward lifelong learners."

The market (job market) will also provide money and opportunity to the bold, the industrious and the lifelong learner.

Many of us today are spending time and tuition dollars preparing for a

"corporate" environment that may not be as rigid as you think. Many companies are looking beyond a resume. They need to know if you are bold and resilient. How do you deal with failure?

Your approach to failure is almost a character trait in the eyes of some employers. John Rutledge, columnist, writes "...Bruises, not books, are the best teachers, and calluses, not cum laudes, are the best evidence of higher learning."

The thought that your work history should only include a smooth, seamless stream of successes is folly. Show your potential employer what you've learned along the way. Even our kids are taught this concept. Do you ever watch the PBS kids cartoon "Magic School Bus"? This educational show starring the voice of Lilly Tomlin as the teacher "Miss Frizzle" has a credo. She says, "Take Chances. Get Messy. Make Mistakes."As adults we may talk a good game, but few of us put this into practice.

We know that experience is the master teacher. Today's marketplace is changing too rapidly to continue to think in the 1980's corporate structure mentality . Companies are looking to hire the whole you -- not just a glossy past polished up on a resume.

One caveat -- Some people fail because they are losers. They commit fraud, are caught lying, stealing and cheating. Be sure your failures are backed by honest effort. Own up to your mistakes. Be of solid moral character.

I'll close by asking you to focus on the future by taking chances now. List a couple of whopper failures from your professional past. Be prepared to tell what lessons you've gleaned from taking a risk and falling on your face. Author Price Pritchett advises that in this ever-changing world we all better learn to fail fast.

Good Luck, and Here's to Failure!