Business
My Last Post Cost Me My Job!
How often have you heard about individuals’ personal accounts – be it their social media posts, email exchanges, or private discussions – becoming public and leading to job losses?
I received a few concerned messages from…I’ll say acquaintances…about my last blog post. But, here’s the thing, if they actually read it and not just the title, they’d know I didn’t write anything negative. I am sticking to what I have always told people that want to start a business online which is to have your own. Having your own equals OWNERSHIP.
As independent contractors, we often lack control over our listings on platforms like Outschool, Teachable, and Udemy, exposing us to unforeseen challenges. This article sheds light on why maintaining one’s autonomy is paramount.
Economic Shifts and the Pursuit of Stability
As things change in the economy, the way people work is also changing. Many jobs are becoming obsolete or no longer need human capital, and more people are working from home now. This change can give us more freedom, but it can also make money less certain. For teachers or online businessowners, we’re at a point where we need to think about what’s best – having flexibility or having a stable job. Do you want to work for yourself or work for someone else?
No matter what title you give yourself (businessowner, independent contractor, entrepreneur), we often engage with platforms that promise exposure. However, in all of my experiences of working through a third party (since 2008), I have learned that relying on a platform could have a huge impact on my income.
Creating Your Own Online Space: Expanding Beyond Limits
Making your personal mark online, whether through a website, LinkTree, or email list, is about more than just having control; it’s about shaping a place where all your offerings are available.
Balancing Freedom and Third-Party Platforms
This isn’t about leaving behind platforms; it’s about finding a balance between their reach and your independence. These platforms can amplify your voice, but they shouldn’t be the only place where you offer your services if you want to pursue teaching online as your business. Taking a varied approach ensures that you have control over your brand and what you offer. You can do this while also having your own website, LinkTree, or email list.
Creating Your Path as a Professional
Even though the headline said. Run, Don’t Walk…”, it’s really about understanding how important working for yourself can be. As we deal with changes, remember: your career is like a work in progress, made better by what you know, the way you plan, and how you deal with challenges.
To clarify, I have not lost my job. The headline is something we see far too often when employees speak out against their companies or even post things on the social media pages that have nothing to do with the company. I do not have a job to lose unless I fire myself.
I will continue to offer my courses on third party platforms as well as my own, mainly for visibility, not out of necessity.
I’m really hoping this was/is able to be somehow resolved somehow.
Wishing you the best either way.