The debate around jobs and entrepreneurship has found a new talking point online. While starting a business is often associated with taking risks and backing your own ideas, one entrepreneur’s advice is far more practical: spend some time working first.A video featuring Lucknow-based entrepreneur Akash Singh has sparked a conversation on Instagram after he spoke about what he learned from having a job before building his own business. The post has crossed two million views and received hundreds of comments, with social media users sharing both agreement and a different perspective on his advice.
Singh says his own ideas changed after getting a job
Singh, who is the founder of a real estate and infrastructure company based in Lucknow, spoke about how his approach to business ideas changed after entering the professional world.He said that before getting a job, he had plenty of ideas but did not fully understand what went into making them work.“A person should first get a job, see how the world works, and learn how people make money. At one point, I also had a lot of ideas. But when I got a job, I realized how work actually gets done, and I gained knowledge about it,” Singh can be heard saying in the clip.For him, the experience was about learning through actual work instead of only thinking about what a future business could look like.
‘That’s when I understood how dreams turn into reality’
ID@undefined Caption not available.ID@undefined Caption not available.Singh went on to explain that his professional experience gave him a better understanding of how an idea moves from being just a thought to something that can actually be carried out.“That’s when I understood how dreams turn into reality. And today, if I get an idea, I have enough exposure and knowledge that I can implement that idea.”The point he makes is centered on execution. In his view, experience can help a person understand what is required when it is time to actually put an idea into action.
His focus is on execution, not just ideas
Singh further explained why he believes experience should come before starting up. According to him, working on projects and seeing how they are handled can provide useful knowledge for anyone who eventually wants to build something independently.“Gain experience and knowledge first; the ability to execute ideas will come naturally! Before starting up, step out and learn how the real world works,” he added.His advice, therefore, is built around gaining exposure before taking the next step.
The comments show two sides of the debate
The Instagram post also brought in responses from people who related the advice to their own experiences.One user said they had followed a similar path before running their own businesses.“You are absolutely right. I am running two companies today, but I started by working a job for two years,” said one user.Another commenter agreed with Singh but pointed out that there can also be a downside to remaining in a job for too long.“I do understand where you are coming from, but sometimes, staying in a job can make you too comfortable.”A third user looked at the issue from the perspective of simply getting started, regardless of whether the first opportunity is an ideal one.“No matter how much you are educated, if you cannot find your dream job, never hesitate to start by doing a small job. Do it, learn from it and go for the top.”Disclaimer: This article is based on information and statements shared in the Instagram video and comments referenced above. The views expressed are those of the individuals quoted and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Times of India.Thumb image: Instagram
