In the late ‘80’s and early ‘90’s, Heavy D was fun and a comic relief from life, and a positive contrast from the changing trend to political/gangsta hip-hop at that time. His death on November 8 sent inspired positive reactions from all all over the world. Many people who remember his music Tuesday posted his signature line, “Diddly-diddly-diddly-diddly-diddly-dee!”

Although he was mostly known for being the “Overweight Lover, ”I think that Heavy D left us with several career lessons for us to learn.

1. Heavy D didn’t compromise his brand. It was rare for an artist like Heavy D not to curse at a time when cursing was acceptable and expected on a hip-hop record. Ironically, he even had a record with other artists that cursed called, “Don’t Curse!” Jobseeker lesson: You will alienate people if your core message has questionable language or verbiage. During a job search what you say is everything, and the only words that employers have to make a decision is what you say.

2. Heavy D saw the bigger picture. I remember when Heavy D became an actor and said in an interview that he knew his hip-hop popularity would fade as he grew older. He went to acting school, hung out with other actors, and embraced acting as his new career. As an example of his passion for acting, see this recent tweet:

3. Heavy D was likeable. I rarely heard anyone say anything negative about Heavy D over the years. He was liked and respected, regardless of his weight, and that he was about fun. He stayed away controversial subjects, or subjects that could be interpreted negatively. He never said anything bad about his record company, or other rappers. Even when acting wasn’t going the way he wanted, he was working hard to present himself in a better light.

Jobseeker lesson: In the same way, if you are not likeable, it decreases your job or networking opportunities. To show that you have personality is good, but never at the expense of others in person or online. Employers routinely Google prospective employees to ensure that the person has a credible and positive social reputation. In addition, people talk and you never how gossip can get around even among friends in varying social circles. A good example of this is posted on one of my blogs here.

Heavy D was a good role model for so many young people. More importantly, he was not afraid to take risks, and express himself respectfully. Remember that people have to like you, and see that you adapt to many work climate changes, and continue to sustain and earn respect.