Frank Zappa: Eccentric Musical Legend, Career Change Guru

May 13, 2010 by Joel Milani

For part two of what is now officially a series featuring unlikely career coaches, I would like to direct your attention to the iconic mustache of Frank Zappa:

Zappa was well-known for challenging the boundaries between genres of music, incorporating rock, jazz, R&B, funk and anything else he could find into his compositions. To achieve his eclectic sound, he would recruit musicians with contrasting backgrounds and influences, and utilize their strengths in a collaborative effort to create something new and beautiful.

He’s famous for asking musicians a question during auditions: “What can you do that’s fantastic?” Zappa wanted to know the one thing that a musician did better than anyone else, musically or otherwise, and showcase it in his band.

That same question should be asked during every job interview; too often people fall into a career that fails to utilize their strengths and talents. If you’re planning on changing careers for any number of reasons, consider what you do well. If you pursue a career based on passion and talent, rather than potential salary, you’re far more likely to advance in that field, and achieve the financial stability you thought you were giving up.

Follow Frank’s example; when choosing a career, determine those things that set you apart from other people, and focus on improving your strengths. A guy who plays the musical bicycle would never steer you wrong.

***

Photo courtesy of  smeert via Flickr.