This is my list of ’10 things I wish I’d known’ before I started my career.
1. Give something for nothing.
The word ‘free’ may be the most over-used word in marketing, but people will often weigh up the return before agreeing to give up their time, money or energy for a worthwhile activity. My motto is always “give something for nothing”.
2. Speak up
When you are starting out, you are too scared to speak your mind. Just remember, by speaking up you might just make a difference.
3. Own up to your mistakes.
Sorry does seem to be the hardest word, but if you have made a mistake, own up to it.
4. Planning is the answer to everything.
Although I have longed to accept that the answer to everything is ‘42’, the reality is that good planning is the answer to everything.
5. Do the same thing for long enough.
You need to do the same thing for long enough to learn from your mistakes. “10,000 hours of practice is the magic number to greatness” (Malcolm Gladwell, ‘Outliers – The Story of Success’).
6. Research, research, research.
Don’t jump in too quickly. ‘Research, research, research’ should be the mantra for any would-be entrepreneur.
7. Be knowledgeable
Embrace the concept of life-long learning. Being knowledgeable about your market, your industry or your interests will help open up opportunities.
8. You are in charge of your career
Realise that you are in charge of your career. Be ready for your “lucky break”!
9. Invest in yourself
You need to invest in yourself: your skills set, your qualifications, your interests, your knowledge, your presentation and your own personal brand.
10. Killer heels are murder on your feet
I never seem to learn that kitten heels are far better than killer heels. Even as I totter off into the sunset, I’ll be regretting that I didn’t put a spare pair of pumps in my bag!