Re: Taking a "sabbatical" from the internet

From: Steven Carlson <steve_at_isys.hu>
Date: Fri, 20 Aug 1999 17:54:54 -0500 (CDT)

KEREN.SOLOMON_at_DB.COM WROTE:

>With the internet industry changing so quickly, how much of a
>professional disadvantage (if any) would I put myself at by
>"stepping out" of the industry for 6-9 months?...
>Would future potential ecommerce employers see me as "unfocused"?

It's difficult to make generalizations, but I think you
would be okay. The fact is, the Internet is constantly
hungry for talent and this trend looks like it will continue
for the foreseeable future. As long as demand outstrips
supply you've got an advantage.

I would actually consider an eclectic job record a plus at
this point. Again, it's difficult to generalize because what
you term the 'Internet industry' is branching out into many
different focuses. It's good to get a new perspective.

You indicated you would be interested in 'e-commerce', but
this is still more a buzzword than a mature industry. If you
want to be a pioneer, it's useful to have a diverse
background because you'll need to think on your feet.

>If I did take the position, what would be the best wayto stay up
>to date and retain my marketability for when I come back next
>spring? In other words, what skills sets would it be critical to
>develop during this period?

I would advise you follow a few industry-oriented discussion
lists such as Online-Ads, or my own list, Online Europe. At
the very least you can keep track of industry news and
gossip. If you work at it, you can also make valuable
contacts that could lead your to your next job or career.

Of course, I wouldn't exactly call this 'taking a
sabbatical' ...

Steven Carlson
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Received on Fri Aug 20 1999 - 19:27:00 CDT