By: Megan Jones

Work, the majority of us will spend the majority of our lives working. Whether you are new to the working world or have been in the industry for years there is always room to set great habits or refresh yourself on good habits in the workplace. As the school year ends and many graduates may begin the search for a job here are 6 career tips for new professionals and a great reminder for our other readers!

Ask Questions

Whether you are new to the working world or accepting a new position, you may feel like you have everything to prove and you may feel apprehensive about asking questions. I can definitely relate to the feeling of not wanting to burden your manager and ask for help. Therefore, my advice is to ask as many questions as you need to successfully do your job! The caveat to asking questions is how and when you ask, and what you’ve learned.

If you have numerous questions on a project or about your position find an appropriate time to ask your manager. I would encourage to do this in one on ones with your manager, or during the training period. If there isn’t a scheduled time allotted to discuss, take the initiative schedule time with your manager. Additionally, if you are starting a new project, go through the whole project and see what questions you have. Then proceed to go to your manager.

Moreover, once you have asked all your questions, take notes on the answer to ensure you don’t have to ask again or be continually reminded. Questions are never bad to ask but the goal is to be conscientious of your manager’s time.

Develop a Skill to Distinguish Yourself

Many companies may ask you to set a list of goals for you to accomplish throughout the year (check out our article on SMART Goals for help). This is a great time to learn a new skill and set yourself apart from your other colleagues. Consider becoming an SME in specific software or database. Microsoft has different learning courses through LinkedIN that you can take to become familiar with their software. This is a great opportunity to continue your learning and become an asset to your team.

Learn to Accept Feedback

Feedback, especially negative can be difficult to take. But I always look at it as an area to improve on and is a great way to make a goal to improve. When accepting feedback, know that it is most likely not personal to your character and it is an area for improvement in your work. Additionally, your manager is bringing it to your attention so you can grow and become an even stronger asset to your team.

Maintain a Work-Life Balance

Although, especially as a new professional you may be willing to work late and overwhelm yourself to prove that you are a team player ensure you also take time for yourself. When you are new you may have to pay your dues and have some later nights, but I would advise to not overwhelm yourself. You do not want to set precedence that you are going to work exceptionally long hours and over burden yourself. It can lead to burnout and can also create an unhealthy boundary between work and your personal life. After work you should still have time for you and to do outside work activities that you enjoy. Regardless of your position make sure you maintain a work life balance that you can manage.

Build and Maintain Your Reputation

Your work reputation is pivotal in the workplace. Your reputation can be the contributing factor to future promotions. Colleagues want someone who they can cohesively collaborate with. Your goal should be a professional with a positive attitude who is accountable and trustworthy. Volunteering to help and being on time to work, meetings, etc. are great ways to begin to build your reputation. If you are looking for tips on building your reputation check out are article 5 Tips on Building Your Reputation!

Become Self-Sufficient

In the beginning of accepting a new position you may be co-dependent on another teammate or your manager. But as time progresses you should become more self-sufficient and rely less on others. You should be able to manage yourself and your deadlines on your own. Additionally, you should be trusted by your colleagues and manager to produce quality work. Aim to be someone your manager can count on and not constantly have to keep a watchful eye.

Whether you are new to the working world, accepting a new position or just looking to establish some new habits we hope these tips helps you in your professional career!

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11 Pieces of Helpful Career Advice for Young Professionals-Indeed