History
It’s no secret that I was pretty miserable at CBIZ early this year (January & February timeframes). At that time I was looking for something permanent. I was also looking for some side work. I met a fellow who owns a software development company. We chatted back and forth for many weeks.
We could not, however, come to an agreement on duration and price. I wasn’t willing to leave my full-time job for a two-month contract. He didn’t want to take me on for a small contract and leave me hanging without a job. You get the picture.
In the meantime, I told him that I am thinking of starting my own business on the side. We signed non-disclose agreements and I shared my business idea with him. He loved the idea and wanted to partner. He has funds, I have ideas, and he thought it might be a good match.
I wasn’t very comfortable with him and he seemed to sense that. About six weeks ago (getting close to seven now), he approached me with a proposition. He wanted me to take a “leadership role” with his company and develop a comfort level with him.
New Job Opportunity
I was skeptical but interested so I decided to meet with him again. I didn’t want this to turn into an “all responsibility / no authority” position. I told him this and he said that he wants me to join as Director of Technology. I was still skeptical and I discussed many issues with him.
I discussed my concerns that he would micro-manage me; that he would not give me necessary funding to accomplish goals; that although he wants change, he will not be willing to make the necessary cultural changes; and so on and so on.
He addressed my concerns. Furthermore, he told me that he understands that I want to start my own business. He said that if, in a year or so, I still want to do that without him, no hard feelings if I leave. In the meantime, he said that I will get an opportunity to learn about running a business.
Ultimately, I chose to take the job. I start on 7/24 with NetVentures Corporation (www.netventurescorporation.com). Most of my friends and colleagues feel that this is a more appropriate position for me and that being a “developer” is not the best fit for me. I hope they’re right!