Welcome to Episode 2 of the Sweet Urchin Podcast.
We will discuss the road to success in the corporate life as a new grad.
Whether you’re:
- trying to climb the corporate ladder
- get a promotion
- survive your 8-5 (to fund your 5-8)
- become a board member/c-level executive
It’s all good.
This is the best time to ask questions, this shows eagerness and willingness. Don’t wait for instructions. Be proactive.
The best way to frame a question: “I am not sure of ___ because of ___. However, I think ___ because of ___.” Make it seem like you tried to think about the solution but need a little push.
It is important to be honest about your interests, but be smart about framing this by highlighting what you’re good at and how it benefits the organization.
I didn’t enjoy performing 3rd party risk, but after gaining some experience, I took some of that knowledge and framed the program a bit more effectively.
You will thank yourself for great ergonomics, for the eyes and body. Don’t strain your eyes and back. Incorporate appropriate work-life balance, but your early 20’s is also the time when you have the most energy to hustle. Use blue light glasses, take breaks, stretch, and drink water.
Have boundaries in the workplace. Not everyone is your friend. Don’t cause a conflict of interest by being “friends” with your manager. Some bad apples will take advantage of the information they know about you to get ahead. But there are good people at work where you can go on vacations with them or hang out outside of work.
You can stay at the same company for 5/10 years or hop every 2-3 years, it happens. It depends on whether you’re content with where you’re at or want more. It’s okay to want stability.
Conflict can happen, but treat everyone respectfully and acknowledge people’s existence. Keep it all work. If there is a conflict with your manager, escalate this. Have it documented.
You are paid to perform the work, not go through conflict.
Don’t act like a fool in chats and emails.
Set recurring 1:1’s with your manager for feedback, communication, and showcasing your highlights.
Find a mentor, whether it’s at work or in professional organizations.
Enjoy work; you’re there for 1/3 of your day, at the very least, there anyways.
We all have to start somewhere.
We live, and we learn.
Job titles can mean a lot. We don’t want to be stuck as an associate/staff forever. But be cautious about what it means to be a manager/etc. Do what is fulfilling.
As always, leave a comment if you have questions, and don’t forget to subscribe!