5 Hard Lessons from My Corporate Job
Howdy fellow corporate warriors! Let's talk about the wild ride of climbing the corporate ladder. I've gathered some nuggets of wisdom during my journey, and I'm here to spill the tea on five lessons that might just save you a headache or two in the corporate world. If you’re new here, welcome! 🤗I’m a certified project manager and have been in the financial services industry for over 20 years now. In 2023 I was laid off from a company that I had worked at for the last 20 years. 😢 But when one door closes, another one opens and sometimes you have to let go of the good to go for the great! Fortunately, I immediately found a job that I love so much!!! And honestly the layoff was a blessing in disguise. During the brief unemployment break, I finally decided to go 100% in with Afterglow Plans. So here we’re today. 🙂 Buckle up… here come the lessons!
1️⃣ If You Don't Speak Up, You Miss Out
Here's a golden rule – if you don't ask, you won't get. Whether it's snagging a better salary, landing a cool project, or snagging that sweet professional development opportunity, you've gotta put it out there. I always made sure to announce that I was interested in a promotion and when I did apply to opportunities, I would let others know so I can solicit feedback to prepare me for interviews. This doesn't mean you’ll get the promotion but at least you put your name in the hat.
2️⃣ Being an Overachiever Doesn't Guarantee the Corner Office
Guess what? Being the office superhero who volunteers for everything won't necessarily land you that promotion. Ugh I used to think that if I was the “yes person” in the office, I would get the promotion. Turns out that the folks that are posting the positions you want aren’t in your office and can’t see your efforts and dedication. It's not just about doing more; it's about doing it smart. Be visible, and make sure the right people notice your hustle. How can you do this? Reach out to the managers positing the positions you want and ask for an informational interview as you’re interested in the roles they have available. If they’re not available, find someone in their team. Offer to assist with any new projects. Everyone always needs an extra set of hands. If you have a supportive manager, let them know about your career aspirations. If your manager is not supportive, try to find a way to do this without affecting your daily duties and responsibilities.
3️⃣ It's All About Who You Know (And Who Knows You)
Networking is more than just a fancy word. It's your backstage pass to corporate success. Build connections with your work buddies, mentors, and higher-ups. It's not just about what you know; it's about who's in your corner. Don’t burn your bridges as they say… your work buddies might get a promotion before you and they can help you advance your career as well.
4️⃣ Brag a Little
In the corporate jungle, your wins are like a tree falling in the forest. Make some noise! Don't be shy about shouting out your victories. If you don't, someone might swoop in and claim your thunder. This is the time that it’s okay to toot your own horn. 🥳 I had to cultivate this skill myself.
5️⃣ Climbing Up = More Money
Staying in the same role might keep you cozy, but it won't fatten up your paycheck. If you're eyeing a financial boost, think vertical. Moving up the ladder often comes with a sweet salary bump. Lateral moves are cool, but sometimes it's about that upward hustle.
There are plenty of lessons I have learned over the 20 years but I’m sharing the ones that I feel will help you the most. I could have a podcast episode for every lesson learned. 🤪
Gear up and enjoy the ride! Happy climbing!
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