[Updated] Steps to Be Successful in the Professional World

Dear Millennial,

This is a shout out to all those of you who may feel that you are losing track of your career, or for those who feel they might not be on the right track. For a brief moment, stop everything you are doing, and think. Think about what you wanted to do in life, and what you are doing right now. If you think you are happy at what you are doing, continue to excel in that field; but if you are not satisfied, it is time you take a hard look at reality around you.

You may have faced challenges in jobs in the recent past. Some company may have sacked you before your term was supposed to end, and there were no written clauses in your contract to protect you from such disparities. Well, know this – acceptance is the key to a peaceful mind. Only when your mind is at peace, you can take the right decisions. You have learnt a lesson in the process of getting fired, and the next time you apply for a job, you would be able to list your terms and conditions if you get selected for some profile. Whether it is a contract-based full time job, or a consulting one, your contract must clearly state the clauses that prevent you from getting fired.

As a budding millennial, the biggest mistake that you may have made or you may make is to think that you could relax after bagging a job. Well, you may have earned the job. But you still have to perform well to keep the job. Success never comes easily. Be aware about your surroundings. Question yourself frequently whether the company needs your services anymore. This will keep you on your toes.

Soon you will have a circle of friends in your workplace, and you may choose to hang out together on weekends. But take care not to post anything which may give a wrong impression about your personality. The young generation now is very impulsive in nature. Such an attitude is good only when used for the right purpose. You may have heard instances of job applications getting refused because someone had too many pictures of partying and drinking. Such posts may indicate that your level of seriousness is not apt for the company. Yet, at the same time, it is essential for you to realise the power of social media in today’s world. If used in the right manner, your social media posts and presence may take you to new heights in your career. Give something worthwhile to your recruiters through your social media pages.

Lastly, refrain from showing off too much of your knowledge no matter how qualified or experienced you may be. Humility is what makes people great. JRD Tata, Narayan Murthy, and, so on are eminent personalities from whom we must take lessons on being humble and successful. And do not show irritation to go out of your comfort zone and work extra sometimes. This may open newer avenues in your life. Dear young one – put your openness to changes to good use and embarks on a secure future. Security in future does not come from a job; it comes from the way you deal with jobs.

Know that your career is an important part of your life. It holds the balance between your personal life and your financial life. Learn to take the right steps in the professional world. Learn from your mistakes and embark on a fantastic future.

Yours truly,

An Aged Entrepreneur