10 Career Tips That You Make You More Successful
10 Essential Career Insights from Experienced Professionals to Accelerate Your Professional Growth
When was the last time you received some career advice?
Just last week, one of our team's interns was wrapping up her internship, and we all got together to share our wisest—and most colorful—advice from the "more experienced" and "older" folks at the company. I learned so much from everyone that I decided to compile a selection of those insights here.
1. SLOW DOWN TO GO FASTER
I absolutely love this one.
I have always operated in fast-paced environments, but I have also noticed that when we're trying to build something great, we need time. We need to step back, reflect on the steps we're taking, and consider the people we're involving.
It's a tough balance because the industry demands speed, but I have learned that I code better, manage better, and become a better colleague when I step away from a big project for a few days to reflect and approach it again with fresh eyes.
2. PRIORITIZE YOUR RELATIONSHIP WITH YOUR MANAGER
Anyone who tells you that your relationship with your manager is not crucial to your career is lying to you.
While being a good employee is essential, it's equally important to have a leader who supports you, recognizes your work, and values your contributions.
Photo by krakenimages on Unsplash
3. FIND A MENTOR
I can't emphasize enough how much my mentors have helped me throughout my career.
From teaching me how to negotiate for higher pay to encouraging me to pursue new opportunities and helping me navigate office politics and challenging teammates, my mentors have been invaluable.
I have gained so much from the relationships I've built with the many people I've encountered over the last five years in the United States.
4. HAVE FUN ALONG THE WAY
Work is only one part of our lives, but it's also where many of us spend most of our time. That's why it's important to enjoy what we do and have fun along the way.
Some people may laugh at this, but it's true. I don't enjoy 100% of the tasks I do, but I find joy in most aspects of my job, and that's a blessing.
When we enjoy what we do, we're more motivated and often become better at our work.
Photo by Boxed Water Is Better on Unsplash
5. KEEP LEARNING
This is so crucial, yet unfortunately, many people forget it.
I have three degrees, and honestly, I know I'll be studying something new again soon.
Learning new things brings us back to the beginning, keeps us humble, and helps us lead with greater knowledge and understanding.
When was the last time you took a class or attended an event on a topic you knew nothing about?
6. FIND A SPONSOR
In addition to having a good relationship with your manager, you also need a sponsor—someone who can advocate for you during important conversations, especially when it comes to compensation and promotions.
I first heard about the concept of sponsorship from Carla Harris, a senior leader at Morgan Stanley, and I believe it's one of the most important professional relationships you can build, alongside your relationships with your manager and mentor.
So, go find the person who will champion you in addition to your manager.
7. TAP INTO YOUR STRENGTHS
Understand what you're truly good at.
What are your unfair advantages?
Be crystal clear about them so you can leverage them when it's time to choose your next project, role, or team.
Photo by Anne Nygård on Unsplash
8. SAY YES A LOT
I was talking to a senior director the other day and asked her how she built such a large team so quickly.
She said it was by saying "yes" a lot.
I know this advice might not resonate with everyone, but advancing in your career often involves taking on additional responsibilities, especially early on when you're just entering the workforce.
It might sound unfair, but it's true: you'll likely have to do a lot before seeing the results of your efforts. However, those results are often well worth the wait.
9. TELL PEOPLE WHAT YOU WILL DO, THEN DO IT
It's as simple as that: keep your word.
These days, it's easy to lose track of commitments because we attend so many meetings and juggle competing priorities. However, when we focus on what truly matters and deliver on what we promise, we elevate our performance and build trust.
It sounds simple, but it isn't always easy.
Photo by Mukuko Studio on Unsplash
10. STAY CURIOUS
Curiosity is a skill—and an asset—that nearly every leader I've met has highlighted when I've asked:
"What do you look for in people?"
Stay hungry and curious by asking questions, educating yourself, and continually reinventing who you are.
At the end of the day, curiosity helps you adapt, grow, and succeed in any organization. Recruiters and leaders notice people who are eager to learn.
For more content about careers and books, follow me on Medium at @danielamatinho.
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Daniela
