20 Bitesize Career Tips that are Easy to Digest

20 Bitesize Career Tips that are Easy to Digest Sometimes we all need a little inspiration when it comes to our careers. Well look no further, I have put together a list of my top 20 bitesize nuggets of wisdom, to help you with everything from job search, to office life. 1) First impressions are critical. People build a perception of you within 30 seconds of meeting you and these often stick, so make  sure you get off on the right foot. 2) What you study at University does not have to dictate your career. Dont feel like your career path is set in stone. University can provide you with lots of transferrable skills that will benefit you in a number of industries, so do what you enjoy and feel passionate about, not what you feel obliged to. 3) In fact, you dont necessarily need a degree. Plenty of professionals go on to have a fulfilling and successful career without going to University. Sometimes natural talent trumps qualifications, so if you hard work alone can get you where you want to be. 4)  Success is a marathon not a sprint. Dont expect things to happen overnight. Career success is the result of hard work and commitment over time. 5) Do not become defined by your job. There is more to you than your job title, so dont let it become your entire identity. Its ok to have a life outside of work. 6) Likeability is the most valuable trait. People want to work alongside those who are easy to get along with and give off positive vibes, so be nice.  7) Always be nice to the receptionist. On that note, you should always put the effort in to be nice to the receptionist, especially at a job interview. They have more influence than you may think and people talk. 8) A little bit of flattery will get you a long way. When applying for jobs employers dont want to hear about just you, but they also want to hear what makes them such a desirable employer, so throwing in a few compliments will never hurt. 9) Body language speaks volumes. Whether youre in a job interview, a client meeting or a brainstorming session with some colleagues, the way you hold yourself can tell a lot about what you are thinking and feeling. By sitting up straight and maintaining eye contact you will appear confident and self-assured. 10) The best opportunities arent always a step up in your career. You may find yourself passing over great opportunities for the reason that they arent necessarily a progression from your current role. Dont write these opportunities off, as a change of environment and new  experiences could actually benefit your career. 11) Learn how to address stressful situations. Stress wont do you any good. If youre feeling overwhelmed at work give yourself a breather or ask for help. 12) Dont make enemies. You never know who knows who and you dont want to get yourself a bad rep. Plus conflict doesnt make for a comfortable working environment either. 13) Dont underestimate the value of a To Do list. You might think youve made a mental note of everything you need to get done, but the human brain isnt always all that reliable. Plus theres something really satisfying about ticking off tasks once they are complete! 14) Social media isnt just for stalking old school  friends. Social media can actually get you a job. If you want to up your chances of getting headhunted, dedicate time to building a professional online presence. LinkedIn is a great start, however other networks such as Twitter and Facebook can also be effective. Theyre also really useful sources to look for current vacancies. 15) Being different is sometimes worth more than being better. Demonstrating a unique quality that sets you out from the crowd can often get you further than proving that you are technically more qualified, so dont be afraid to show personality. 16) Dont be afraid to question authority. Just because theyre your boss does not mean that you cant express your thoughts and opinions if you disagree with the way something is being done or what is expected of you. Just make sure you approach it professionally and rationally. 17) Networking doesnt have to be nerve wracking. Attending a networking event can be a bit of a nightmare for introverts, but it doesnt need to be as scary as you might think. Pinpoint the other introverts in the room for a one-on-one conversation thats less intimidating. Alternatively you could even approach the social butterfly, as they will be happy to introduce you to others, avoiding awkward ice breakers. 18) Choose job satisfaction over money. We spend a large amount  of time at work, so you dont want to stay in a job that makes you miserable in for the sake of the money. If theres something youd rather be doing but it pays a bit less, go for it! In the long run you are more likely to excel in a career you enjoy. 19) Avoid smelly food in the office. Dont be that person. Fisheggsno. 20) Dont steal your colleagues mug. Itll never end well. [Image Credit: Shutterstock]