I've been out of college for 10 years. Here's what I've learned so far:
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Just like big corporations embellish their products when selling to you, you should embellish yourself equally as much.
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Never ever let your boss know how capable you really are. Make your boss think you are giving it your all while only working 25-50% of your total capacity. This way when they tare/zero out your progress at the next annual review, you will still have a buffer of capacity to fall back on. If you fail to do this and accidentally show your full potential, your employer will use it against you and give you nothing in return for expecting you to put in 110% next year.
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Never expect a company to be as loyal to you as they expect you to be to it. This includes waiting around for a potential raise or promotion…don't do it. The company of today does not typically reward loyalty and dedication. They promote and give the biggest raises to a small nepotistic group.
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Don't take a over the top non-compete agreement as something that should stop your progress for better positions or more money. Ideally you should never sign one, but if you already have, don't let it stop you. Take new opportunities and live without fear.
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Document carefully all grievances and wrongdoing that occur to you, listing what happened, the players involved, the date, the time.
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When you get upset at your current job, go to the restroom and pull out your phone and quick apply at 2-3 jobs.
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When looking for work, avoid jobs that use words like “competitive pay” “unlimited vacation”
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When in interviews, do not be afraid to ask questions that have a harder punch to them, “what's something YOU would change about your job?” “Are you happy with the work life balance here? Would you say you are happy here?” “Why was the previous person terminated from this position?” “If my dog is sick and I need to take them to the vet right away, how would I handle an unexpected situation like that?”
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If you see something that is wrong, don't be afraid to go way above your boss' head to report it. Don't let bosses intimidate you ever. If your bosses try to intimidate you for speaking up about something, go above their heads and above the heads of those people til you reach the top.
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When applying for jobs, use the apps that allow you to fast apply for jobs. Don't apply for any job that doesn't list the salary.
Couple more for now:
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Despite employers paying lip service to diversity and inclusivity, most organizations are filthy discriminatory, racist, and sexist at their core. Don't assume you won't be discriminated against for a disability, your gender, your age, etc. Document any instance of possible discrimination with outrageous gusto and detail and don't be afraid to ask a lawyer if it's something they can help with. There are low cost legal options for those of us that can't afford a lawyer. (I'm on the autism spectrum and have been targeted for it before!)
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If your interviewer says the position is salary, don't be afraid to ask how many hours is typical or average during the work week. Add 30% to whatever figure they give. IT workers be warned: it's easy to get taken advantage of if you don't examine this carefully enough…had a coworker forced to work a 35 hour shift at a previous job.