Farewell Day Job
Friends, today I shut down my work laptop for the last time, boxed it up and said farewell to my colleagues at Believe. While you may have seen this news on my social feeds I wanted to write something longer as I have things to say beyond the “character limit” social media allows.
Firstly, my heart goes out to music industry folks across various industry that are looking for their next job, especially those that have been without work for some time. While sending farewell emails I received many "I am no longer with *company*" auto responses which really shows how widespread these layoffs are but it also highlights something I want you to be aware of. What’s concerning is how many of these folks seemingly don’t have an online presence or network they can reach out to for help. Please, I urge you to check in on friends and former colleagues, especially those that aren’t active online and making noise for themselves. A phone call can provide comfort, support, let them know they are not forgotten and they are not alone. Remember to invite them to events where they may get a chance to network, and for events where they can’t be present, say their name as word of mouth is incredibly valuable.
Let’s keep each other strong and continue to check in, vent, brainstorm and share funny memes. Together we can do something even bigger and more impactful.
Potential employers, please remember that we built, supported and were part of some significant moments in music and tech. Don’t discount us, we know our value and experience doesn’t fade. Celebrating and championing our work shouldn’t stop when our employment does.
As for me, I’m finally taking a much needed break. I look forward to finding some new hobbies, catching up with friends, lunch dates with my wife and give our dog extra belly rubs and walks. I’m already learning how to make Cocktails, plan to build some Lego. Oh, and I am gonna dust off my decks and do some DJ sets, maybe I’ll go live to get you through your day with some funky tunes.
After the break, I will be taking the leap and expanding my knowledge to multiple companies as a consultant and am open to advisory roles. This is something I have always wanted to do as I feel my skills can help more than just one person, one company and this gives me more opportunities to dive into multiple projects now that I am no longer tied to one company. I’m not ruling out taking on a full time salaried rule in the future but I do plan on giving consulting a shot first.
I will also be writing my next book, taking on more speaking gigs and guest lectures plus releasing a bunch of music. Did I mention I’ve also been helping some artists in the wellness space, but more on that soon.
Thanks to the Believe team for taking a chance on me, to my colleagues who welcomed me with open arms, and to our DSP and label partners. Lastly, and most importantly to the Artists! Without you our jobs would simply not exist. Thank you for sharing your music with the world and trusting us with your art.
I’m grateful to have been able to wear many hats and build a strong personal presence online, meaning that some of you know me by my name and not my day job (the way it should be for all of us). If anyone else is looking for side hustle ideas or advice on having a stronger online presence for yourself, I’m here to help.
If you’ve ever wanted to include me in one of your calls, have me around for meetings or bring in an outside perspective for your team, I’m here, let’s work together! Tap around the menu’s on this site to find out more.
Resources for those impacted and ways to help.
I wanted to highlight some websites, resources and awesome humans that are here to help.
Resources for those seeking work:
People who are highlighting individuals that have been impacted:
Anthony Pu has created a detailed Google Sheet with Job Postings, Details of those seeking work, resources and people who are offering to help. Check it out here.
Christine Osazuwa has been sharing jobs and advice for years on LinkedIn, even while seeking her next role for herself. Christine posts weekly but here’s a link to her recent post with lots of helpful suggestions.
Additionally, below is a post by Ashlie Yaeger regarding impacted Sirius XM humans. You can tap below to view the post.
If there’s any other resources I should add please let me know @AskMikeWarner on most socials or via the contact page on this site.