A Note of Caution:
Surveying the Market

Aristotle as depicted on a Greek postage stamp.

Over 2,000 years ago, Aristotle said, “Where your talents and the needs of the world cross, there lies your vocation.” Some people are only caught up in what they would like to do and fail to consider “the needs of the world.” This can lead to disaster.

 

 
Self-portrait of Vincent Van Gogh after he cut off his ear (1889)

The Dutch artist Vincent Van Gogh loved his work and produced some 900 paintings and about 1,100 drawings and sketches from 1880 to 1890. Though his paintings are worth millions today, unfortunately, there was no market for his work back then, and he was able to sell but one painting during his life. He became frustrated and, sadly, committed suicide at age 37.

 

Famed automaker Henry Ford

Henry Ford knew that millions of people would love to own a car but couldn’t afford it. He conceived the idea of mass-producing cars the average person could afford. The result was the Model-T, which cost $825 when it came out in 1908. By reducing production costs (though his workers were well-paid), Ford was able to lower the price each year until it reached an all-time low of just $295 in 1928. By meeting the needs of others, Henry Ford was enormously successful.

The Ford Model T was nicknamed the “Tin Lizzie.” Would-be buyers were told
by Henry Ford, “You can have any color you want, as long as it’s black.”

Surveying the market enables you to consider to what extent people want and/or need what you are planning to offer.

Present your Personal Vision to people whose wisdom you respect and who can consider your idea in an unbiased, objective manner. Don’t just rely on just one or two opinions, as there is safety in numbers.

If others are already doing the same thing or something similar to what you plan to do, interview them and find out as much as you can about that vocation or business.

Information interviews can help you get a clearer idea of what the market is looking for, and you are better able to focus on just what is the right market for you. This usually proves to be highly educational and inspiring!

Though somewhat general in nature, the Occupational Outlook Handbook can also be of value.