What Geoffrey Owens Teaches Us About the Art of Work Ethic

What Geoffrey Owens Teaches Us About the Art of Work Ethic Last month, when photos of TheCosby Show actor Geoffrey Owens working at brsenspekulant Joes went viral, the country reacted with mixed emotions. While some began job-shaming Owens, others praised him for his unapologetic work ethic and grit. Many fellow members of his acting community came out in support, sharing their own stories of holding similar positions in between acting roles. Chris Rankin, who appeared in the Harry Potter series, voiced that hed held a kitchen position after the film franchise came to an endI needed a job, no shame in that. And you know what? I really enjoyed it You do what you need to do and thats nothing to be ashamed of.For a short time, our nation was perplexed by Owens. The images of him working his typical shift at Trader Joes, frequently cited as a great place to work, sparked conversations about the gig economy, side hustles, and the value of good, honest work . The fewwho did publicly shame Owens called his gig a step down.According to multiple media sources, Owens wasnt just working at Trader Joes. He has been actively teaching and acting as well. His job at Trader Joes was the means to do what he truly loved, and the way he defended his employer and stood proud of his work was endearing. Theresmuch we can learn from the way Owens approached his work at Trader Joes and his unapologetic attitude when photos of him bagging groceries went viral.There are now more than 16 mio Americans doingcontingent or alternative work, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.Side hustles and temporary gigs are clearly changing the employment ecosystem. As alternative work arrangements become the norm, we can all look to Geoffrey Owens to learn a thing or two about thriving in this new environmentLesson 1 Define Your HustleLong after he played the role of Cliff and Clair Huxtables son-in-law on The Cosby Show, Owens has remained dedicated to his passi on for acting and teaching. Hehas built a distinguished career as an actor, director, and teacher in theater, television, and film, according to his website.When the photo went viral, Hollywood largely came to Owens defense. Thats because most actors could easily see that Owens gig was a means for him to pursue the things he loved to do while making ends meet. Its a strategy wed all do well to mimic. Ask yourself What do I love to do, and how will I piece together the gigs and side hustles I need to make it happen?Lesson 2 Stay PresentFor agig worker, it can be tough to switch from one job to another to another. The key to a successful gig career is the ability to stay present and be engaged in one gig at a time. When youre at one gig, it should seem like that is the only place you want to be.Owens made it known that his work at Trader Joes ensured he could support his family financially, and the job fitwell with his schedule as a father and teacher. His obvious commitment to his jo b and pride in the work he did made it clear he wasnt simply collecting a paycheck. Itwas easy for many to admire his hustle and grit because it was obvious he appreciated his work for what it was.Lesson3 Take the Opportunity to Build Transferable SkillsOwens, perhaps unknowingly, was building his network and his skill set while at Trader Joes. From interacting with customers topursuing a meansto his end goal, he was contributing in a big way to his future career. Over the last few weeks, Owens has been offered more new acting gigs than he can handle a happy ending, so to speak. In most situations, however, its up to gig workers to leverage their newly acquired skills to land even better gigs in the future.To conclude, no matter why Owens chose to work at Trader Joes, he remained authentic to himself throughout the process. He was unapologetic about and proud of his employer, and he remained confident in his work. He truly embodies the spirit of doing what needs to get done and wh at employer wouldnt want to hire a hard worker with grit and a goal?Kimberly Schneiderman is senior practice development manager atRiseSmart.