As a soon-to-be college grad, I know that the world of work can catch you unawares. In preparing for the job search, I’ve found that experienced professionals often have a lot of great advice to dispense (also some not-so-great advice, but that’s an article for another day).
And it’s true that sometimes the wisest tips don’t come from experts, but from real people with real stories. So, with that in mind, The Muse team asked the LinkedIn community what wisdom they’d bestow on recent grads.
And upon reading all the tips, I couldn’t help but think that anyone—and really everyone—should read them, too. So with no further ado, here are my favorites:
1. Remember These Four Words
Be positive, principled, pro-active, and productive.
2. Discover Yourself
Consider this job a journey to learn about yourself. The purpose is to grow as a human being; to discover what you’re good at, what you love to do, and what you dislike.
Discover your why, and you’ll become happier and more passionate in life!
3. Be Open to Change
Don’t get discouraged when a job you really want does not pan out for you. It just opens up doors to other opportunities.
4. Don’t Hide From Mistakes
Be honest. Not sure about something? Ask questions. Screwed up? Own up!
I’ve always valued someone willing to learn, and we do that in different ways. I’ll always highly regard someone willing to be honest about their mistakes because we learn from those just as much as our successes!
5. Keep Moving Forward
Learn to hear feedback and never let it fester. Instead consider it, take what works, and move on.
6. Learn From Everything
Remember every moment is an opportunity to learn from everyone around you, no matter their title.
Pay attention when things go well; pay extra attention when they don’t, and watch how people react to it. Build relationships with the people who face problems by being their solution.
7. Make Connections
Your biggest asset is your network.
8. Be Patient
Networking + Resilience = Success
It won’t be easy but you have to start somewhere. This is just the first step on the stairwell, so don’t give up, and know that the best is yet to come!
9. Utilize Your Co-workers
Don’t be intimidated by your colleagues and superiors!
Remember that they were once in your shoes when they began their careers. Leverage their knowledge and experience and find ways to take what worked for them and adapt it to work for you.
10. Treat Everyone With Respect
Speak when you walk into the office everyday. Say good morning to your boss and peers as you walk past their offices, smile at janitors and receptionists in your office.
Don’t be so focused on getting ahead that it’s all business all the time. Treating people with humanity and integrity is most important.
11. Keep Your Own Counsel
Don’t assume that a co-worker won’t repeat your criticisms of a colleague. When asked how you feel about individuals in the office, be open and vague with your answers.
Always reserve judgment on your co-workers until you have enough time to make up your own mind.
12. Prepare for the Future
Develop good time management habits early on. Your workload will only increase with time, and so will your responsibilities. Be ready when they do.
From making the right impression to getting a handle on time management, a new work environment can be tricky to navigate. And, that goes for anyone, no matter how high up the ladder you are.
So if you want to set yourself up for success, pay attention to these sage tips.