Career Lessons From Justin Timberlake

There are few artists that I claim to be a "fan" of.  To be a fan of an artist is to dig their music, follow their evolution, and to have a critical appreciation of their artistry and brand.

I'm a Justin Timberlake fan.

Since this is the week of the release of his third solo project, I thought it would be fitting to call attention to Justin Timberlake, the career strategist.

1.) HONOR YOUR TALENT

Most people are aware of the talents they have, but not enough people honor them. To honor means to respect in the highest regard. Talents that are not acknowledged or utilized, are talents not honored. Are you honoring your talents? Or are you waiting for someone to allow you to honor them?

2.) HAVE A VEHICLE

Justin Timberlake is the same guy that was the lead singer for N'Sync. Although the commercial appeal and success of the group sometimes overshadowed their talents, N'Sync was the perfect vehicle to transport Justin to the attention of mainstream audiences, and showcase the immensity of his talents. Do you have the right vehicle for your talents?

3.) SERVE YOUR AUDIENCE

Acting has enabled Justin to serve (and expand) his audience during the years that he's taken off to create his next music project. His comedic flair and showmanship were on full display during his recent, and 5th, Saturday Night Live appearance that satisfied the hunger of his audience, and created Super Bowl size ratings for the show. What are you doing to satisfy the appetite of your hungry audience?

4.) ALIGN YOURSELF WITH MISSION CRITICAL ALLIES

The people who share your goals, and with whom you have mutually beneficial relationships, are your mission critical alliies (MCA's). Justin routinely creates win-win situations for his MCA's, from Timbaland (his music producer) to iTunes, Target, and Jimmy Fallon. Have you created win-win situations for your MCA's?

5.) MARKET WITHOUT MARKETING

To market without marketing means to place a strong emphasis on the value of what you are offering. In this concept, it's the experiencing of value that promotes the product or service. Justin's 20/20 Experience is titled that for a reason. Its value proposition comes in the form of musicianship and innovation; both experiences were made accessible during his dazzling Grammy Awards performance in January, and a week long appearance with Jimmy Fallon. Justin didn't bring sexy back this time, he brought back the relevance of the value proposition. What's your value proposition?

6.) LET YOUR PASSION SHOW

Have you seen Justin perform any of his new material? If you have, one thing is obvious: he's having a damn good time! His passion is both refreshing and contagious. It contradicts the cool, stoicism of competitors in his genre. People love to be around those who enjoy what they do. Are you having a damn good time doing what you do, like Justin is in his SNL performance below?