There is so much information online when it comes to careers and advice – how does one begin to filter through it all to find the few gems that possess practical wisdom and are achievable? Below are 8 such pieces of advice that we hope will inspire you to continue working on your career:
1. Have A Path But Be Flexible
Have a general career path in mind, build relationships along that path, and be willing to accept challenges even if it seems they may lead you down a different path. You never know where those may lead. – Brian Sullivan, Sullivan Branding
2. Fight For Happiness
A fairy tale misconception is that happiness (in work or in life) is presented to you by someone else (like a knight in shining armor). Truth is, your life, happiness, sense of balance and even how people treat you, are completely in your control. But the kicker is you have to fight for these things each day. – Jaymie Scotto Cutaia, Jaymie Scotto & Associates
3. Learn Something New Every Day
The pace of business is grueling and the energy required is exhausting. But, as one of my trusted mentors reminded me, our brain needs exercise each day. He suggested to seek new knowledge and become a student of the industry I serve, of my profession, as well as in parenting and in my faith. Learning something new is a privilege we can ill-afford to sacrifice. – Dave Wendland, Hamacher Resource Group
The ascent toward your vision is long and steep, but only you can see it, so don’t be so hard on yourself.
Lindsay Mullen, Prosper Strategies
4. Improve, Don’t Perfect
Success doesn’t come overnight. The ascent toward your vision is long and steep, but only you can see it, so don’t be so hard on yourself. Start climbing and you’ll realize you’re on a never-ending hike. Strive for constant improvement, not perfection. – Lindsay Mullen, Prosper Strategies
5. Market Yourself
When I started my career, I was told, “Market yourself because no one else will do it for you.” I passed along every “great job!” email to my managers and then filed them away to read again whenever I needed a pick-me-up. I shared the work I had done of which I was proud and others might not be aware. And I counsel everyone I mentor to do the same. If you don’t have your own back, who will? – Starr Million Baker, INK
6. Don’t Let Others Manage Your Career
One of my mentors always said don’t let others manage your career because you will be unhappy with the results. What he meant by management is focusing on what skills and experiences you need to ultimately be in your dream job. I managed my moves carefully, making sure that I built the right skills to be a CEO. In the end, he was right and I am happy with the outcome. – Gina Michnowicz, Union+Webster
7. Don’t Tie Your Sense Of Self-Worth To Your Job
Regardless of how good/bad your job is going at any time, you’re a valued individual regardless. If you’re finding that your emotions are held hostage to how you’re performing at work, it’s time to rethink your priorities and what truly matters to you. – Jeff Tan, Dentsu Aegis Network
8. Treat Everyone How You Want To Be Treated
Anyone who comes in contact with your business or employees deserves to be treated with kindness and respect. I’ve held to this belief when dealing with rude inquiries, tough clients and bullying peers. The result is a company with a reputation for helping others, sticking to their word and producing results while being courteous. – Leila Lewis, Be Inspired PR
