Emmett Shear, the former CEO of streaming platform Twitch, shared a piece of career advice that he consistently gave to each batch of interns at the company.
Presenting Twitch's Origins and Q&A Sessions
During a thread on X, Shear mentioned that he would provide each intern group with a presentation on Twitch's beginnings, followed by a question and answer session.
Choosing the Right Path
One common question during these sessions was about where to work, what job to pursue, or whether to start a company. Shear emphasized that the answer to this question varies for each individual.
Considerations for Career Pursuits
Shear highlighted that people have different motivations for their career choices, including factors like money, prestige, power, and opportunities for advancement. However, he also pointed out the downsides associated with each of these factors.
Money, Prestige, and Power
While money is a common motivator, Shear noted that it has diminishing returns. Similarly, he described prestige as more of a trap, comparable to designer clothing brands that may not offer true value. Jobs promising power may provide only superficial benefits, often leading to trade-offs in other areas.
Advancement Opportunities and Intrinsic Rewards
Some individuals may be drawn to roles with clear advancement paths, such as becoming partners at a law firm. On the other hand, Shear emphasized the importance of considering the intrinsic rewards of the work itself. Engaging in tasks that promote learning and personal growth can lead to long-term value and fulfillment.
Choosing Your Career Path
Ultimately, Shear suggested that individuals should focus on understanding themselves when making career decisions. He advised a balance of seeking financial stability, prioritizing learning and growth, and disregarding other superficial factors.
Shear's insights on career advice reflect his experience as Twitch's CEO and his active engagement on X. While he has offered guidance on various topics related to careers and startup management, his brief tenure as interim CEO at OpenAI showcased his adaptability and commitment to finding optimal solutions for all stakeholders involved.
By emphasizing self-awareness, continuous learning, and meaningful work, Shear's advice serves as a valuable compass for individuals navigating their career paths in today's dynamic professional landscape.
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By: ktan@businessinsider.com (Kwan Wei Kevin Tan)
Title: The Career Advice Former Twitch CEO Emmett Shear Gave to Interns
Sourced From: www.businessinsider.com/ex-ceo-twitch-one-piece-of-career-advice-for-interns-2025-3
Published Date: Mon, 10 Mar 2025 08:31:19 +0000
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