Question: What is the best beginning of the year career advice you have for young professionals?
Pivot as Fast as You Can
"The beginning of the year offers you a clean slate to make changes to things that did not work the previous year. If you've just started a new job, this is a chance to learn from your previous mistakes. It might seem like your age is still being used as an excuse when it comes to certain responsibilities, so align yourself with a mentor ASAP, and make yourself indispensable to the company."
@codymclain
Get Yourself Out There
"You have a unique advantage in that you have the time, energy and enthusiasm to get in front of as many people as possible -- whether that's through internships, networking events, alumni gatherings or industry conferences/events. Shaking hands, remembering names and delivering 110 percent when tasked with a job or project is what has worked for generations, and it still holds true now."
@EarlyGrowthFS
Volunteer for Every Opportunity
"Once you've secured the interview and landed the job, you'll be quickly immersed in the culture of your new company. Look out for opportunities to participate in capacities above and beyond your job description. Special project teams, working groups and product testing sessions are all great examples. Figure out how to stand out, make sure you're up for the task, then seize the opportunity."
@davidciccarelli
Build Skills, Not a Resume
"Too often, young professionals focus on making career decisions based on how their resume will look. Rather than pursuing opportunities solely based on the "brand name" you'd be working for or compensation package, consider what skills you'll acquire within the position. Companies and cash come and go, but skills stick with you for your whole career."
@rbeyeler
Venture Outside of Your Comfort Zone
"The start of the year is the perfect time to expand your reach. The first stage of your career is meant to try new things and learn as much about yourself as possible. Venturing outside of your comfort zone will teach you about your strengths, and how to work on your weaknesses. The most successful people are constantly striving to improve, and learn to “become comfortable being uncomfortable.”"
Set Flexible Goals
"It's great to have New Year's resolutions and exciting goals for the coming year, but be sure to make them flexible. The world is changing very rapidly, and you need to be able to change your strategy quickly if necessary. Make sure you keep up with the latest trends in your industry, such as new technologies. This will help you take advantage of the year's best opportunities."
@ShawnPorat
Be a Goal-Getter
"Set goals for yourself and chase after them! Whether it's asking for that promotion or raise you deserve, applying for the dream job you've always wanted, or deciding to go back to school to broaden your horizons, this is your year. Make it count."
@rakiareynolds
Dress for Your Next Promotion
"Sure you need to work hard, but if you aren't dressed for your future role, then you won't get called into that high-level meeting by chance that allows you to 1) internally network and get visibility with bigger decision makers, and 2) gain access to higher order information and details to make you more effective. You can't be overdressed, but you can always be underdressed. Don't leave it to chance."
@ECMathews
