I wish someone told me these when I joined the workforce in 2009, really. But, of course, there’s no point in crying over spilled milk. I’m just glad I know these career tips now and am able to share them with anyone who needs it. Whether you’re a newbie or someone like me who’s already years into the game, these will hopefully help steer you in the right direction career-wise.
You don’t have to work at an office.
But if your goal is to have the typical corporate job, then, of course, there’s nothing wrong with working at an office. But as someone who’s been working from home for around 7 years now, I don’t think I’ll ever want to go back to an office setting (unless, of course, it’s my own office). It’s the perfect set-up for introverts! I don’t regret having an office-based job right after I graduated, though, cos it still taught me a lot — and that’s where I met my husband! — but with the current traffic (and health) situation, working from home really seems like the best option for most of us.
You’ll never get what you don’t ask for.
One of the more recent career tips I’ve learned is the power of asking for things. While there’s a chance that you can still get what you want if you just wait patiently for it, asking for it is definitely easier. You also don’t waste time wondering if it’ll ever come or happen — whether that’s a raise or a partnership, something small or big. There’s really no harm in asking.
No one is indispensable; it pays to be on guard.
The only person who’s indispensable from a company is the owner. But sometimes, even those whose positions seem to be “safe” aren’t really exempted from the chance of getting booted out. So it always pays to be on guard. It’s not to say that you have to be paranoid all the time. Just think that no matter how well you perform or how devoted you feel you are to your job, there’s still a possibility that you might lose it.
Always be open to learning.
One of the most important career tips I’ve learned is to always be open to learning — even if the skill is so different from your current set. Take it all in! Use every learning opportunity that comes your way to your advantage. Sure, it might mean more work but it also means more knowledge! And that’s something you’ll have with you even after a project (or even after that job) is done.
Your work is not your life.
It’s hard to really think of it this way when you spend majority of your time working. But you have to remind yourself that. (I know I have to tell myself that often!) Your work should be just one part of your life and not the entirety of it. Spend time with the people you love. Do things that spark joy. Remember point number 3. It’s always good to give your best while on the job, but don’t give it your all.