What do you do if your creative abilities aren't getting you noticed in a competitive job market?

It's widely and very wisely said, "Charity begins at home". Polishing skills for oneself is the first and continuous set of works that one can build for himself or herself before one can think of bettering others. Polishing skills is also like a savings account where one has to have some deposits before one can lend a helping hand. If my own account is dwindling or empty, how on earth am I going to help anybody else? Not only I have to polish my skills, I also have to acquire newer skills which can complement the existing skills and magnify my capabilities multifold. The world is changing at an astonishing speed and if we don't sharpen our axe, forget about cutting more trees (figuratively, please), we won't be able to even touch a plant!

Networking is like building connection and activating new and unexplored territories of coexistence, just like neurons in the brain get activated and open up new areas in the brain when we practice it to do so. I find neurons and people are alike when it comes to networking. -It's potential is unlimited. -It helps people explore what else is possible and brings out the best in themselves and others. -It paves a way for a better future by exploring uncharted areas for a better life. -Networking has the potential to decentralise the distribution of wealth and prosperity amongst people who are talented. -Once built, it has a snowballing effect which can prove to be exponentially beneficial for all directly as well as indirectly involved!

History has taught us time and again, "people who lived forever on earth are those who gave unconditionally, and not those who have just taken". Am I adding value? For betterment if others, for a cause that bigger than my self interest?...we have to ask ourselves. No one grows alone. Innumerable people helped us grow, and it's time we do the same. We have to build our capacity to add value, as well as let others know (a) we are eager and willing to help (b) How we can help...only then will it be helpful. Just got a job? Not only help your manager, help your peers and juniors as well. Help the security person do his job by complying with the security rules. Help the janitor keep the premise clean. It's infinite how one can help.

Recently I spoke to an audience of age groups 20 to 65 in how to remain ready. The thought that made a lasting impression was, "Your ideas are like your babies. Take care of them!" Any creative has a brain full of ideas that are raring to come out. They often think that they are not being appreciated! Dear creatives, here are (some of) the reasons: 1. What you thought is way ahead of time. 2. Not everyone will understand your idea. They are at a different level of cognizance. 3. Your idea is not ripe yet. And many others... What can you do? 1. Take care of the ideas. Protect them well. If YOU can't, no one can and will. 2. Keep a note of all ideas, build a depository and improve. It will take only one idea to make you great!