6 Pieces Of Career Advice You’re Better Off Leaving Behind
Whether it’s general advice, or advice specifically targeted to your career, there are few “one-size-fits-all” pieces of advice that will truly provide value to you.
While there is no doubt that most of the people who have given (and will give) you advice have your best interest at heart, however, sometimes it’s best to just leave some of the advice behind and follow your gut.
Here are some specific pieces of advice you may be better off leaving behind:
A longer resume shows you have more experience
Companies have approximately three seconds to get and keep their consumer’s attention–think of your resume in this way. According to ERE, there are an average of 250 resumes posted for every job opening. Competition is high, so keep your resume as tight and concise as possible. Objective statements are not necessary on a resume, that’s what your cover letter is for. Keep your resume to one page unless you have enough years of experience that warrant an additional page.
Apply to as many jobs as possible
Sending blanket resumes to hundreds of job postings will get you nowhere. Take some time to define what role you desire and then research each company you apply to. Your cover letter and resume should be individually catered to each job posting and company. Many sites available today can assist you with this tedious but effective process by providing up-to-date job postings, in-depth information about companies and contacts, and by helping you get your personal marketing campaign up and running.
Take what you can get
It is very important to carefully consider your options and accept jobs that align with your career goals and are a good cultural fit. For recent graduates, or job seekers desperate to find a new job, this may be a difficult piece of advice to leave behind, but it’s best to try to wait for an opportunity that will keep you satisfied longer term. If you take multiple jobs just to take them, you run the risk of looking like a “job hopper,” which can greatly hurt your chances for a really great opportunity down the road.
You’re good at that, so that’s what you should do
Just because you’re good at math or English doesn’t mean it should necessarily drive your entire career path. If you don’t find it to be meaningful or engaging, it will serve you in a way you need it to and provide a roof over your head, but you will never be truly happy. You also won’t be able to excel if you would if were truly passionate about the subject. The best option is to try and find a way to integrate what you’re gifted in and what you’re passionate about.
Choose whatever pays the most
Money is an important factor in a job, but it’s certainly not the only factor–and not the most important. Don’t let dollar signs blind you when looking at your job prospects. You should also consider the people, culture, work/life balance, and the opportunities for growth in your job search in addition to the salary.
Accept the pay you’re offered
During negotiations, it is not uncommon for employers to offer a lower amount than they are actually willing and able to pay. This is especially true for recent graduates accepting their first position. Although you may have little to no actual work experience, don’t underestimate the value of your fresh skills and ideas. Do your research and understand your value in the industry and determine what a fair salary is for both parties involved.
In your job search, don’t forget that some career advice may be better left behind. Although there will certainly be plenty of great advice you should follow, never forget that understanding your personal strengths, needs, and wants are the best way to get to where you ultimately should be in your career.
What do you think? What other pieces of career advice should be left behind?
