Mad Skills

Hopefully, your first job won’t be your last. Nowadays, of course, people tend to work at more than one company throughout their careers. If you ever feel like you aren’t doing exactly what you want to be doing then consider what skills you can gain in your current job that will help transition you into a better position in the future.

Make a list of the things you now know how to do now that you didn’t before you started working. Even if it’s as basic as filling out a report, using new software, or learning how to deal with different types of people. These are all skills that will make you more marketable when it is time to move on!

Action Speaks Louder…

Intelligence and reliability are extremely important, but to really get ahead, you need to go that step beyond status quo. Learning to exit your comfort zone is the first step.
Exhibit leadership skills. “You’re only going to move up when you start doing the things that aren’t expected of you,” says Brandi. When you have an idea don’t let it stay in the idea stage. Take action and see it through! Your boss is not a mind reader, so unless you speak up and stand out, your desire to get more involved and advance could get lost in the shuffle. If you’re interested in taking on more responsibility with a certain project or want be considered for a new position, speak up! Let your boss know what you’re interested in doing and how you plan on moving full steam ahead.

Have You Learned Everything You Can?

Whether you’re waiting tables or working for Miranda Priestly, there is ALWAYS something new to learn that will help you in your future. Everyone – even those that have their ‘dream job’ – wake up some mornings and wonder what life would be like if they were doing something else. However, giving 100% to whatever you’re doing in the moment not only will get you noticed, you will get more satisfaction and pride out of doing a good job and ensure glowing referrals if and when you decide to leave.

Knowing when it is time to move on is key, but falling short at the job because you are bored and haven’t taken the initiative to change your own situation is just not smart. Even if you aren’t in love with your current position, learning how to handle responsibility, how to act with dignity and treat co-workers fairly will help you no matter what you do going forward. Keep this in mind, recent college grads! It just might give you a whole new perspective on all those endless days of photocopying and FedExing. Remember, you can learn big things even from the smallest of jobs!

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