4 Life Lessons from Being a Working Professional
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For most people, lessons happen along the way. It’s what you do with those tidbits of vital information that is most important. Just when we think we’ve learned something, life comes along and shows us there’s more.



I recently reflected on a few life lessons I learned last year and, to my surprise, most were connected to work. I thought, how could that be? It was true. The things I learned about relationships, finances, and what my strengths and weaknesses were, had all taken place on the job. Talk about a valuable lesson! I took that experience as I value my colleagues and their opinions matter to me. Also, my career is really who I am and what I stand for.



Here are four tips that are a result of my most recent life lessons while working on the job.



1. Don’t put people in a box.



People never fall into the stereotype or group they’re supposed to. You’ll meet people who are set in their ways and “yes people,” but let them figure that out on their own. It’s not your job to tell them that because people rarely fall into the categories others think they should.



2. Let your friend list be longer than your contacts.



Think of the last time you needed a favor. Was the person who came to your rescue a friend or a family member? PR pros know it’s much better to make friends with the people who regularly interact with you. Of course, relationships with virtual buds are even more rewarding when you meet those people in the real world, so attending trade shows or just meeting for coffee if you’re close by is a good idea. Contacts help you do business; friends help you create a life. Warning: not everyone you work with will be your friend, so proceed with caution.



3. Think before you speak.



Watch what you say and do. Thinking and planning your strategy before you act is essential because in life you can never be too careful. Plan and strategize, strategize and plan.



4. Be you, first and last name.



One of the best things about the use of social media is getting to directly interact with clients. People want to hear from real people. Acting like a big know-it-all at your company just doesn’t cut it anymore. To be a true face of your business means that you get to act like the interesting person that you are. Not many aspects of business allow you to act like yourself, so take advantage and embrace it.