Career Lessons I Wish I Knew Sooner: Advice for Ambitious Professionals

At 21, I stood on the edge of the so-called “real world,” eager to begin writing professionally and excited for the adventures a big city promised. I’d worked a variety of jobs throughout high school—from babysitting and teaching gymnastics to running the snack bar at a country club—and in college I waitressed while doing a paid internship. I thought I understood hard work, growth, and hustle. I believed I was prepared for adult life and ready to launch a successful career.

A decade later, after working in communications, I’ve done well for myself—but I’ve also had my share of facepalm moments and lessons I wish I’d learned sooner. Since I can’t go back, here are the top 20 pieces of career advice I would tell my younger self, and why each one matters.

Pick Up The Phone

Early in my career I dismissed a coworker’s suggestion to call more and email less as old-fashioned. I was wrong. In our digital age, tone and nuance are often lost in written messages, and it’s easy to misread intent. A brief phone call can clear up confusion far faster than a long string of emails, and hearing someone’s voice provides context you can’t get from text.

Actually Get To Know Your Team

I used to wonder why colleagues were close friends—didn’t they have lives outside work? Over time I learned that the people around you are your most valuable resource. Building genuine relationships isn’t about using others; it’s about learning from peers, offering and receiving help when workloads spike, and understanding what motivates them. Knowing coworkers’ strengths, weaknesses, and priorities makes collaboration easier and more humane.

Ask For A Raise

I spent many months waiting to see if I’d receive a raise or bonus instead of asking for what I deserved. As a manager now, I notice that the employees who get promoted are often the ones who advocate for themselves and can clearly articulate how their work contributes. If you’re delivering strong results, ask to be compensated accordingly—tactfully and with evidence of your impact.

Don’t Assume

When you assume, you risk misunderstanding and stereotyping. Assumptions about people’s skills, backgrounds, or intentions lead to missed opportunities and poor decisions. Instead of jumping to conclusions, gather context and ask clarifying questions so you can respond thoughtfully and fairly.

No Task Is Beneath You

Every job has moments where the work feels mundane—filing, running errands, or logging data. Don’t roll your eyes. Leaders respect people who understand that every task matters. Doing the small things well gives you a well-rounded view of how an organization operates and highlights where you can make the most impact as you grow.

Questions Aren’t a Sign of Weakness

Early on I stayed silent in meetings when I didn’t understand something, fearful of appearing incompetent. The truth is that the smartest people ask lots of questions. They clarify, challenge assumptions, and learn. Asking questions is how you grow; it’s not a flaw to be hidden.

Don’t Bow Down to Bullies

Bullies can make you feel silenced, especially if they hold power. You don’t have to tolerate consistent belittling, manipulation, or interruption. Address the behavior, document it, and speak with HR or leadership if necessary. You deserve a respectful workplace, and speaking up is rarely selfish—it’s essential.

Always Take a Seat at the Table

As an assistant, I often sat at the back of meetings because I didn’t think I belonged in the conversation. You were hired for a reason—show up and contribute. Your perspective has value, and taking part in discussions can open doors you didn’t expect.

Your Lack of Preparation Is Nobody Else’s Problem

Missed deadlines are usually the result of poor planning, not external chaos. Own your time management: prioritize tasks, build in buffers for the unexpected, and don’t make your unpreparedness someone else’s burden. Consistent planning earns trust and reduces stress.

It’s Okay To Feel Like You Don’t Know What You’re Doing

Imposter syndrome is common. Feeling uncertain or out of your depth often signals that you’re growing. Most people “fake it until they make it” at some point—progress comes from pushing through discomfort and learning on the job.

Embrace Risk

Doing your job well is important, but taking calculated risks and experimenting can accelerate your growth. If you catch yourself thinking, “Wouldn’t it be interesting if we…” or “I wonder what would happen if…,” follow that curiosity. Innovative ideas often come from small acts of bravery.

You’re Not Better Than Anyone Else

Leave your ego at the door. Confidence is valuable, but humility is essential. Every team member contributes differently, and the blend of skills and personalities is what makes a workplace succeed. Collaboration matters more than individual heroics.

Unexpected Detours Are Hidden Lessons

I planned to go to law school, but the idea of becoming a lawyer felt wrong. After a period of uncertainty, I took an unexpected job at a church as an associate editor. That detour taught me to read, write, and edit—and led me into healthcare communications and freelance writing. Unplanned paths often bring valuable skills and clarity.

Follow-Through Trumps Genius

You can be brilliant, but execution is what counts. Being reliable and delivering results quickly can make you indispensable. In my experience, consistent follow-through has advanced my career more than being the smartest person in the room.

Be Willing to Adapt

Careers are rarely linear. You may change roles within a company, learn new software, or pivot when a startup fails. Being nimble and ready to reskill will keep you employable and open to better opportunities.

Don’t Gossip

Avoid workplace gossip. It erodes trust and makes you look unprofessional. Venting occasionally is human, but make a habit of taking the high road—especially when you’re entrusted with sensitive information.

Give Yourself Permission to Change Your Mind

Leaders who can admit mistakes or revise their views tend to make better decisions. Changing your mind when new information appears shows you prioritize the right outcome over pride. That flexibility is a sign of strength.

Articulate What You Want

Don’t wait for opportunities to be handed to you. Speak up about the projects you want, the skills you hope to develop, and the responsibilities that energize you. Managers can’t read minds; clear requests make it easier for others to support your growth.

Take Your Lunch Break

Work cultures prize hustle, but skipping breaks isn’t productive in the long run. Step away for lunch, use vacation days, and take short walks. Rested employees are healthier, happier, and more productive.

You Spend A Lot of Time Working – Find a Way To Enjoy It

You’ll spend a significant portion of your life at work. While no job needs to fulfill every passion, finding elements you enjoy rather than dreading each day will improve your wellbeing and performance. Seek joy in the tasks you can, and make room for learning and growth where you can’t.