Every seasoned professional had to learn the ropes the hard way. There are lessons that we can only learn with time and experience. But what are some things I wish someone had told me early in my career? Here are just five things that can help new job seekers find their footing faster.
What I Wish I Knew When I Started My Career
Take Risks
The best time to take risks with your career is at the beginning. Don’t be afraid to try something new, even if you’re unsure what will happen. Being willing to take risks now will serve you well in the future, and you won’t get too deep in your comfort zone.
Fail with Grace
Failure is not the worst thing that can happen. Failure is a part of life and a part of the learning process. What’s most important is how you deal with it in the aftermath. Accept and take responsibility for your mistakes, work on being solutions-oriented, and never point the finger at someone else.
Trust Your Instincts
It’s easy to second guess yourself, especially at the beginning of your career. You might feel like you don’t know enough to understand what’s going on. But if something doesn’t feel right, it probably isn’t. Trust your instincts and don’t stay silent.
Don’t Be Afraid of Fear
It’s okay to feel anxious; most of us do. What’s important is not to let your anxiety turn into a fear that stops you from trying new things. In many ways, anxiety is the fear of feeling fear. You don’t like how you feel, so you want to avoid it. But it’s okay to take a step back, breathe deep, and dive in.
Reach Out to Mentors and Peers
You don’t have to figure any of this out on your own. Tap into your networks and find mentors and peers to communicate with as you begin your career journey. Talk to people who have been in the corporate world or your industry to gain insight. Make friends with your coworkers and rely on your friends and family to be your support system.
What Do You Wish Someone Told You At The Start of Your Career?
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