The former chief executive of the popular streaming platform Twitch, Emmett Shear, has revealed a piece of career advice that he consistently imparted to interns during his tenure. In a recent social media thread, Shear discussed the framework he used to guide young professionals in making informed career choices. His insights emphasize the importance of self-awareness and focusing on personal growth over external rewards. This article delves into Shear's unique perspective on career development and the key factors individuals should consider when choosing their professional paths.
Emmett Shear led Twitch from 2011 to 2023, transforming it into one of the most prominent platforms for live streaming content. During his leadership, Shear developed a habit of engaging with new interns through presentations about the company's history and interactive Q&A sessions. One recurring question from interns revolved around career selection: "Where should I work and what job should I pursue?" To address this, Shear crafted a thoughtful response that encouraged interns to reflect on their motivations and aspirations.
Shear acknowledged that people enter careers for various reasons, including financial gain, prestige, power, and advancement opportunities. However, he highlighted the potential pitfalls of each motivation. For instance, while money is often a primary driver, its benefits diminish over time. Prestige, he argued, can be misleading, as it may impress others but does little to enhance one's true value. Power, especially early in one's career, is often borrowed and can be a deceptive lure. Instead, Shear advocated for prioritizing roles that offer intrinsic satisfaction and opportunities for continuous learning and growth.
In his social media post, Shear emphasized the significance of understanding oneself and aligning career choices with personal values. He suggested that individuals should aim to achieve a balance by seeking adequate compensation while optimizing for environments that foster skill development. Additionally, Shear cautioned against the allure of starting a business without fully comprehending the challenges involved. His advice reflects a pragmatic approach to career planning, urging professionals to focus on sustainable growth rather than short-term gains.
Shear's insights provide a valuable roadmap for navigating the complexities of career decision-making. By encouraging introspection and emphasizing the importance of personal growth, he offers a refreshing perspective on how to build a fulfilling and meaningful professional life. His experience as both a tech leader and an interim CEO at OpenAI underscores the relevance of his advice, making it applicable not only to interns but to anyone seeking to make informed career choices.