On Reflection: Career Tips

Please allow me to share with you some valuable insights and lessons I've gathered over my many years in the workforce! I hope that some of them will resonate with you. But before we dive in, I have two disclaimers: this list is by no means exhaustive, and while I strive to embody these principles, I must admit that I am a work in progress. So, here are my top 10 tips (not ranked by importance):

1. Embrace hard work and seek out new challenges to stand out and fill gaps in your skills or qualifications as you progress. Volunteering for stretch assignments can provide invaluable experience in uncharted territories.
2. When you enter a conference or event, take a moment to connect with everyone, including the security guard, the janitor, or the cook. Each of them has a story to tell, and they deserve your respect and appreciation for their hard work and unique perspectives.
3. Be a great listener and speak thoughtfully after considering others' opinions. Seek out introverts for their valuable insights, as wisdom often resides in the quietest voices in the room.
4. Maintain focus and brevity in meetings, remembering that less is often more. Communicate clearly and concisely using simple language to ensure everyone is on the same page. Simple is, in itself, beautiful!
5. Choose to work for a company that aligns with your values and contributes positively to society. Seek harmony between your personal values and those of the organization you represent.
6. Cultivate curiosity and empathy towards your colleagues by shouldering their burdens when possible. Display altruism, lend a helping hand, and show genuine care for others in both your personal and professional interactions.
7. Present solutions along with problems and provide options (like gold, silver, bronze or A, B, C) when seeking direction from executives, sponsors and other decision makers. Be prepared to defend your recommendations based on your experience and expertise, and view setbacks as learning opportunities. Learn great story-telling.
8. Remember your professional roots as you advance in your career and lead with humility. Cherish those who've supported you along the way, and prioritize authenticity over perfection. Laughter can go a long way.
9. Engage with thought leaders in different fields and place decisions against scientific evidence. Strive for a balanced approach to decision-making, relying on both data and intuition for informed choices. Build diverse teams.
10. Prioritize your mental well-being as you navigate professional challenges. Be vigilant against burnout, explore new wellness practices, and maintain harmony between your work and personal life. Seek support from trusted confidants and prioritize self-care.

Remember, your relationship with the company (large corporates) is ultimately transactional, not inherently emotional. "A fair day's wage for a fair day's work" as they say (NGOs, charities and SMBs will likely have a different dynamic which I can't necessarily speak to). While you contribute your skills and time, maintain boundaries to avoid overextending yourself and shortchanging others who count on you outside of work.