Thriving in your first job

May 2025

I recently spoke to a group of university students about what I've observed in successful team players and entrepreneurs. Then I realized that the patterns I identified aren't just for those starting their careers; they're attitudes that push anyone forward in any job.

Do:

  1. Work hard. Early on, your biggest leverage is sheer effort. Working hard signals you want to grow quickly and contribute meaningfully. And that's what you'll get if you do so.

  2. Aim for excellence. Excellence isn't perfectionism; it's relentless improvement. It compounds over time. Raise your standards early, and maintain them high. Don't lower them under any circumstance.

  3. Sweat the details. Paying attention to the finer points means demonstrating commitment and depth of understanding. Meticulousness will position you as someone trustworthy and indispensable.

  4. Stay organized. Chaos breeds uncertainty, and uncertainty undermines trust. Clear organization will not only help you stay efficient, but it will also help your team.

  5. Own your responsibilities. Accountability is scarce. Consistently delivering results will boost your credibility and propel your growth. Don't pass the ball if it's your shot. Be ready to grab the rebounds.

  6. Be positive. Positivity isn't just pleasant, it's powerful. Optimism will help you tackle challenges others think impossible. Be a booster, not a detractor.

  7. Make your luck. Luck is rarely pure chance. It's opportunity meeting preparation. Be ready for when it arrives. Stay hungry.

  8. You are the product of your circle of Influence. Your circle will define your trajectory a lot. Surround yourself with smart, ambitious, and good people. Those that you'd aspire to be. Prioritize genuine connections over politics.

  9. Be flexible. Adapt quickly, embrace change, and be comfortable with uncertainty. Chances are, nobody really knows exactly what's going on.

  10. Be authentic. Being yourself is a strategic advantage. Organizations naturally encourage conformity, but your fresh perspective is a significant advantage. Guard it carefully.

Don't do:

Being late or disconnected, over-socializing, paralysis by analysis, lacking urgency, missing key initiatives, ignoring feedback, continous complaining and avoiding hard conversations.