Why Zappos Pays New Employees to Quit – And You Should Too: Learn in Public, It's Great

Why Zappos Pays New Employees to Quit – And You Should Too: Learn in Public, It's Great

In the world of business and professional development, there are often unconventional strategies that yield surprising results. Two such strategies that have gained attention in recent years are Zappos' approach to employee retention and the concept of learning in public. While these may seem unrelated at first glance, there are common points between them that can be connected to create a unique and insightful perspective.

Zappos, the renowned online shoe and clothing retailer, has a rather unusual practice when it comes to welcoming new employees. CEO Tony Hsieh and his colleagues have implemented a system where they offer a quit-now bonus to new hires. The initial amount was $100, but it has since increased to $500 and may continue to rise as the company grows. After a week or so of immersion in the company's culture and values, new employees are presented with "The Offer." If they choose to quit, Zappos will pay them for the time they have worked, plus a $1,000 bonus.

On the surface, this may seem counterintuitive. Why would a company actively encourage new employees to quit? The answer lies in Zappos' commitment to finding individuals who truly align with their values and are dedicated to the company's success. By offering this bonus, Zappos is essentially testing the commitment of their new hires. If someone is willing to take the money and run, it indicates that they do not possess the level of dedication and commitment that Zappos is seeking. It is an investment in learning sooner rather than later whether a new employee is the right fit for the company.

This approach brings us to the concept of learning in public. Many individuals and organizations follow the traditional method of doing in silence and only showcasing the end product. However, there is great value in showing the process and progress publicly. This approach creates accountability, builds a feedback loop, allows for the recognition of one's progress, and establishes a community or following.

In his book "Show Your Work!" Austin Kleon emphasizes the importance of sharing one's creative process with the world. By putting ourselves out there, we open the door to ongoing connections with others who are interested in our work. This not only helps us move forward but also gives us the opportunity to inspire and connect with like-minded individuals.

The idea of creating in public may seem daunting at first. There is a fear of judgment and criticism. But as journalist David Carr once said, "No one is going to give a damn about your résumé; they want to see what you have made with your own little fingers." When we focus on creating valuable content and showcasing our skills and expertise, people will naturally be drawn to us. The key is to be so good at what we do that they can't ignore us.

So, how can we apply these concepts to our own lives and businesses? Here are three actionable pieces of advice:

1. Embrace transparency and encourage feedback: Just as Zappos encourages their employees to be honest about their commitment, we should be open to feedback and constructive criticism. By inviting others to be part of our creative process, we can gain valuable insights and improve our work.

2. Share your progress publicly: Don't be afraid to show the world what you're working on. Whether it's through social media, blog posts, or other platforms, let people in on your journey. Not only will this create accountability, but it will also attract an audience that is interested in your growth and development.

3. Focus on skill development: Instead of obsessing over building a resume or accumulating credentials, dedicate your time and energy to honing your skills. When you become truly exceptional at what you do, people will naturally gravitate towards you and your work.

In conclusion, both Zappos' approach to employee retention and the concept of learning in public offer unique insights into achieving success in our personal and professional lives. By aligning ourselves with organizations and individuals who share our values and by openly sharing our creative process, we can create memorable experiences and build meaningful connections. So, consider implementing these strategies in your own life and watch as your commitment and progress lead to greater opportunities and success.