Advice to My Past Self: Tips for Young Professionals Entering the Workforce
August 2021 marked my official one-year anniversary at Gambel Communications. As I reflected on the last year, I found myself wondering: What advice would I give my past self or anyone starting out in the workforce?
If I could go back in time, here are a few tips I would have offered:
1. Don’t be afraid to ask questions.
Brush aside the fear of asking a “stupid question”. There is a tremendous learning curve when starting a new job, especially right out of college. Without a study guide or syllabus to reference, it’s important to stay inquisitive and ask questions when faced with an unknown. In fact, asking questions is the key to success, and can even save you precious time!
While senior staff may always try to assign a task in a clear manner, that’s not always a reality. Be sure to ask any follow-up questions early in the process to ensure you are not spending time doing something incorrectly.
2. Your mental health is important.
As a young professional, it is admirable to want to make yourself useful and get involved within your team. Managers and supervisors will take note of if you are eager to jump in and help with a new project or task; however, it is also important to establish boundaries for yourself early in your career.
While it may be tempting to say yes to every new opportunity, stretching yourself too thin can lead to burnout. Here are a few things to consider when asked to take on a new project or task:
What is your current workload like?
What is the deadline for this project?
Do you have the capacity to take it on?
If this project is a priority, can something else be reprioritized?
Is anyone else available to split the work?
In any position, your workload will ebb and flow, but there will be times when you are busier than normal. These times should be temporary. However, if you are feeling like you are constantly over capacity, it is important to voice this to your supervisor so you can craft a plan of action.
3. Build your network.
The benefits of building your professional network should not be underestimated. These connections can lead to a variety of opportunities – both professional and personal.
One thing I’ve witnessed is that previous generations are eager to build and support the next generation of talent across all industries. Don’t be afraid to ask someone to coffee for an informational chat or see if they would be willing to answer a few questions via email.
If cold calling an executive you admire or messaging a stranger on LinkedIn isn’t quite your style, start with your personal circles. Family friends, professors or even previous employers are a great place to start when building your network. It can also be helpful to join professional and charitable organizations in your region or area of interest.
4. Identify potential mentors within your organization.
As with my previous tip, don’t forget to network across your internal organization! Not only is this a great way to learn about the culture of your company, but it also will help you to build connections and ultimately, identify potential mentors.
Come to each meeting prepared with questions – ask your colleagues about themselves, their role and their career path.
5. Don’t take yourself too seriously.
All in all, remember that you are a young professional. Focus on learning, obtaining new skills and continuing to grow in your role!
At the end of each day, take time for yourself and try to get into the practice of detaching from work after hours. Face each new challenge as an opportunity for learning and growth, and don’t forget to lean on the skills of the people surrounding you.
As I wrap up my time of reflection, I’m going to take some time to celebrate my career wins over the past year – both big and small. With each new season you face, I hope you’re able to do the same.