GET real experience— QUICK
FOUR LEADING PROFESSIONALS SHARE THEIR BEST ADVICE FOR GETTING IN THE GAME.
HOW TO CREATE YOUR DREAM JOB
“There’s no need to wait on an employer or someone else to offer an opportunity to you. You can really take things into your own hands by developing a side hustle that will give you the experience you’re looking for. Then consistently share your work, career journey and professional interests on social-media platforms like LinkedIn because you never know who might see it and help you achieve your goals.”
HOW TO FORGE YOUR OWN PATH
“I think so many people hold themselves back because they’re afraid of not being perfect. A growth mindset that is centred around being eager and curious is key. Often people don’t take a shot. What’s the worst thing that could happen? Just get started—you never know how one opportunity is going to lead to another. Don’t put that pressure on yourself to have it all figured out.”
HOW TO ASK FOR WHAT YOU WANT
“People often think that they just have to put their head down and keep working and someone will give them a new job, but that doesn’t happen. You have to ask for more responsibilities and then knock it out of the park and repeat that your entire career. The biggest growth opportunities I got were at start-up companies because they gave me the opportunity to work on things that I’d otherwise never be hired to do.”
HOW TO THINK OF NETWORKING AS AN INVESTMENT
“Have coffee chats and show people that you’re enthusiastic and willing to learn and hear about their experiences in the business. I’ve found that a lot of people are willing to share their story. It’s all about sowing the seeds for a larger, more meaningful network in the years to come. Be authentic about the goals that you’re trying to accomplish. It’s not a surprise that I’ve found the most success by doing something that’s truest to me because people can see that it’s genuine.”