[Bookd review] Employ yourself

Employ Yourself/ Gu Bon-Hyong/ pp. 237; 9,900 won/ Kimyongsa Publishing Co.

Probably because so many companies have gone bankrupt recently, there are a lot of jobless people these days. Even those who have a job seem to be going to work reluctantly. More people are forced to work just to make ends meet than the number who really like their jobs.

This thought-provoking volume is meant for those nine-to-fivers -- frustrated, shaken and losing self-confidence in this age of rapid change. What is the relationship between an individual and his or her company? How was it in the past and what should it be in future? The book gives clues to the answers to these questions.

The author emphasizes that one should be responsible for oneself. He advises against getting ensconced among "organization men" who have no regard for individual gifts; he advises people to discover and develop their talents to improve their earning power and quality of life; he tells people to stop counting on the generosity of their employers and appealing for favors and teaches people how to find their own real value and make the best of it.

He says people should explore what they like and what they are good at and how to achieve a turning point in life. He explains the method logically or emotionally at times and in a threatening manner at others. He also enlightens readers on how to find a theme and passion for life on behalf of their children.

The book recommends that people treat themselves as an enterprise for which they should create a brand and elevate its value. As an enterprise works hard to increase its brand value, so people must identify their own unique qualities and set themselves apart from their peers in the organization.

I have read all of Gu`s books ever since he wrote "Parting with the Familiar." His story interested me most in that it presented an inspiring account of a man who broke with the stability of being a "salary man" to search for a new career. I wished I could follow the path he took.

The volume is even more appealing to readers because it is based on the author`s personal experiences. It comes as an eye-opener and a constant reminder to long-time company men not to blame the boss or fault the world for their own weaknesses. The book tells people to change.

The author asks readers to give up everything except the very inner self. Being true to oneself is better than half-baked imitation. He tells people that they can learn how to get once they know how to give away. He points the way to a new life for people who are armed with a passion for themselves. It is meant to lead readers to an open road where they can stand on your own two feet. The book is recommended to all who are looking for fresh vigor to get out of the rut of oppressive workplaces.

Han Keun-Tae, director of Korea Leadership Center