Over the course of the past couple of years I’ve started to view my career differently. I’ve come to the conclusion, if you want your career to go somewhere you’ve got to set sail and be prepared to navigate your own course. Navigation without a map or prior experience is pretty fool hardy. In an attempt to make up for lost time I’ve asked a few people to please share with me what is the best piece of career advice they’ve ever received and what made it the best piece of advice. In no particular order are some of my gleanings, with names removed.
My best career advice came from __. There were two things actually. First, finish your degree and second, trust your instinct. Both basic but for me I needed to hear it. I always second guess myself so this person really helped me with trusting and believing more in my ability to manage others. As for the degree, it was always something I was very aware of. I’d even go as far as to say I was embarrassed by not completing it. ___ helped me to see that more than anything I needed to finish my degree for me, not because of what others may think of me.
Make sure that any new job that you’re considering is a good place to be from, ie, think at least two moves ahead.
The best career advice I’ve received has come from a number of people including my husband, co-workers, and friends. Whenever I’ve hesitated to apply for a position or to take on a challenge, the advice was, “What have you got to lose?” Like most people, I cringe at rejection. Knowing that there’s no real risk removes the roadblock of fear and propels me up the path of trying for something more.
The best advice I’ve learned from experience is that opportunity is hiding everywhere. We don’t know when our best efforts will garner the attention of those who are willing to help us. We must anticipate, work harder, and be prepared. Then we can use the other piece of advice. Reach out and try for new opportunities without fear.
The best career advice I received sounds a little corny, but was given at a time when I needed encouragement to step past my doubts and apply for a new position. I was challenged to “spread my wings and fly.” This piece of advice struck a chord with me at the time. It made me question why should I hold back? If you know your strengths and a position requires those of you, don’t let doubts creep into your thinking.
The second piece of advice was “intent and perception.” Being aware of what I say – my intent when communicating an idea or message versus the perception of the people who are receiving the message. This piece of advice has made me aware of the need to systematically check with others to see if their perception of what I communicated matches my intention. It’s a good reality check.
Always make sure you have your “got to go” money prepared. This allows you to leave a job on a moment’s notice if you encounter circumstances that are illegal, immoral, or uncomfortable for some other reason.
My best advice, “Get a thick skin. Don’t take things personally.” I found myself in a situation where I was charged with establish new business processes. I spent a few difficult years struggling with the constant feedback. It was difficult to not be defensive. Eventually I learned you cannot take feeback personally. You also want to test the feedback. Some feedback is constructive and helpful to you and the work you do. Sometimes the feedback you receive can be off. Perhaps the person providing the feedback is unaware of all the variables that you’re managing. It is good to reflect on the feedback, but to also let go of feedback that isn’t helpful.
Don’t be afraid to have difficult conversations with people. Difficult conversations either about your own mistakes – or if you are supervising others, difficult conversations about mistakes others are making. Lots of people will shy away from these conversations. By being able to successfully address difficult topics you set yourself apart from the crowd. It distinguishes you. Ultimately, it can also lead to better work and working relationships.
I’m thankful to everyone who shared with me (published or not). The conversations have been encouraging, inspiring and fun! More career advice welcome….