OT:A change in life every now and then...

[giovanni]

Some of you know me better than others, but I guess all of you will understand that I WILL NEED your support.

I just decided to quit my job and go my own way ... I'm sick of being an employee and pay for someone else decisions and mistakes!
A couple of weeks ago I was asked to become a part-time worker for the company I work with, instead of full-time (I work for one of the most important indipendend records and dvd distributor, as well as record label, and I'm the import labels manager), as they said they can't pay anymore my wage; they have done that with most of my colleagues. In a way I can simply understand them, and that's what most of the distributors and wholesalers are doing right now...but why are we in this situation??? Ok, the music market here in Italy (not only here) slowed down a lot, the crisis started years before the world economic crisis got us all involved, but I really can't stand for some decisions they took to face what was happening. A couple of majors decisions taken by my bosses were totally wrong, despite most of us suggested something different as it was plain to see that it was a dangerous direction. Anyway, its their company, not mine, they have the power to take decisions, but I'm definitely sick of going on this way.
When my boss, with whom I have anyway a very good friendship, asked me to become a part-time, without changing the contract, I told him I would cut the contract and leave the company as an employee, and if they like to go on working with me, we can do it with a new contract, where I become an external collaborator.
This means I will open a VAT position and will work as a free lance in the music consulting field; I have about 20 years of experience of working in record stores, major and indipendent labels, wholesalers, distributors, music magazines, recording studios, management, etc... and I guess it's about time to prove to myself I can go on with my own foot and open new deals with various companies. I will keep on working with Venus (the company I work for) part-time as they want (by the way I like my job a lot) but in the last couple of years I was a little disappointed for their moves, and there was a lack of motivation; now, what they asked me gave me the right push to take the decision that was already in my head for some time and start a new adventure.
I have already called some companies I used to deal with, and they all told me to meet in September and discuss some collaborations; of course I don't expect many open doors, but in my position I guess I can try and push for some new deals. My name is not unknow in the Italian music biz, and something good was done in the past; I just have to be stronger than ever, and going my own way is already giving me a lot of energy and strenght.
My boss was a little surprised but totally understood what this 'crazy horse' (that's how he called me) is trying to do; I'm happy, he's happy but I need to breathe again, I need to make my moves, make MY mistakes, I need to go on in my journey in the music business; I have a lot to learn, you never stop learning, I need new strategies, I have tons of ideas that must find a way to be released; it will be absolutely difficult...and this is where I need you help; a few words of encouragement will always be welcomed; you simply know me for 'the guy who opened SC.net' because of the joy of making it, with no other reason than make fans happy as well as make Stewart feeling good about it (I didn't know him when I opened it); you don't know me that much for my job as I never say that much about it, never wanted to mix my own daily life in the record biz, with this web; you knew something more about my bands (by the way, Bianca record will soon be released), and maybe from now on you will know a little more, I don't know.
By the way, if you know someone, some companies who may need someone like me in my territory (Italy), give them my contact!

I will need your support, wherever you are, as you are part of my daily life.

Keep the beat my friends!
Giovanni

[Rancid Date]

Gio -- You can be sure that we are all here sending our good thoughts and wishing you the best.

XX

[ltwoman]

We're behind you 100% of the way, Gio! Nutter Good Virbrations---oooommmm. It worked for me and it will work for you, my brother. You are connected and good things will come your way. Keep us updated and check in here regularly, please!

[Horacio]

Maybe a new era begins.
And it´s yours.
YOUR New Era.
I´d like see you working with I Blame Coco but you´ll need a strong contact.
Sting?
Well,man.Let´s go dreaming and living this amazing life in this time.
Count on me!

[moonstone]

[quote="giovanni"]Some of you know me better than others, but I guess all of you will understand that I WILL NEED your support.[/quote]

Gio the effort and energy you put in to SC net is proof that you will succeed.

Don't be scared and don't look back. Going your own way can be hard to start with but you won't regret it.
It's great to be your own boss. Stay motivated but remember to give yourself a day off every now and then. It's important to have a day off sometimes.

Hugs and luck to you Gio X

[dufmanno]

Things always seem to happen for a reason so I raise a glass to toast your exciting new opportunity. Independent contractors of the world unite.

[plutonic]

Gio,
Congratulations. I'm sure this decision will be for the best. I look forward to hearing about your successes.

dc

[Susan]

Gio, just today an article appeared in the NY Times about how even the profitable businesses are cutting back on staff or reducing their hours, the result being that the corporation keeps more cash and that this is stifling the economy - they were talking about in the U.S. but I sense it is true all over. I believe that you are resourceful, intelligent, and wise (two different things, you know!) and you will do well following this decision. I wish you the best! Looking forward to hearing about your next adventures.

[luddite lady]

Forza, Giovanni!

[DirtyMartini]

Forza, indeed!

Kick ass, Giovanni. You always do.

[TheEqualizer]

The music industry really is a different animal in today's economy.

Anyways, good luck! I'm sure you'll kick ass on your own!!

[Maud138]

You go, Gio!

[GinaSuperCat]

I salute the Warrior from the Planet Love--I know you will rock on whatever path you take! My papa always says, and I believe: sempre seguire il sogno. <3gsc

[njperry]

Gio,

You have all my best wishes on a tough journey ahead. SOunds like a good call to make and best of luck.

[IndyGirl]

Congrats on having the courage to go on your own, Gio. Sending good wishes your way. You have our support.