You worked hard to get the education, the skills and now the job. Don't let these mistakes sabotage your climb up the career ladder.
Lying on your résumé, stealing office supplies or failing to show up for work will surely dampen your career prospects. But young workers need to beware of less-obvious mistakes that can sabotage their careers. Your behavior, attitude and appearance will play important roles in finding success, not only in your first job, but also throughout your entire working life.
Avoiding these seven career killers will help you craft a stellar reputation and keep your career on track
1. Procrastinating. Remember the first time you put off studying for a test then crammed at the last minute and still got a decent grade? Many of us have been procrastinating since grade school and have done just fine, but that's a habit you have to break.
2. Having a sense of entitlement. Our generation was raised on instant gratification. We're used to getting what we want, and getting it now. Yet when it comes to our careers, no matter how hard we work, we cannot get five years' worth of experience in one year.
Falling into that trap can hinder a climb up the career ladder. If you carry the attitude that you deserve to be promoted or else, you may find that "or else" is your only option.
3. Settling into your job description. You may have your set responsibilities, but you should always be on the lookout for opportunities to shine. Going above and beyond your mundane entry-level tasks can demonstrate your untapped talents and show your boss you're not afraid to take initiative. Settle into your job description for too long and your reputation may be cast as a low-level lackey. You may have to do a little self-promotion, but try not to come off as a braggart.
4. Avoiding office politics. When it comes to playing office politics, there is naughty and nice. Naturally, you shouldn't engage in backstabbing and gossiping. But avoiding politics altogether can be deadly for your career. Like it or not, every workplace has an intricate system of power, and you can -- and should -- work it ethically to your best advantage. To get a promotion, avoid downsizing or get a project approved, you need co-worker support. Get that backing by building relationships, asking others for advice, offering your help and showing sincere interest in others.
5. Not being a team player. Getting stuck with this label is one of the fastest career killers. But young workers face a delicate balance. You still need to demonstrate your skills and abilities to successfully build your career without giving the appearance that you're interested only in looking out for yourself.
6. Not dressing the part. In an ideal world, you would be judged by your merits alone. However, we live in a visual society. How you present yourself can play a crucial role in the progress of your career. You want to look professional and in control, not sloppy and indifferent. Keep your hair and nails trimmed, your clothes ironed and your breath smelling nice.
As for your apparel, take your cues from what others are wearing. You don't want to show up in a suit and tie if jeans are the norm. But it doesn't hurt to dress for the job you want.
7. Failing to network. You've heard that networking can be a good tool to help you find a job, but maintaining your contacts after you're hired is critical to the continuing success of your career. Keeping in touch helps you stay atop the latest issues in your field and gives you people to call on when you need advice. And a contact just may help you land your next job.
Good Luck!
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