We all love our parents. Well, at least most of us. And they often serve as our early mentors, offering nuggets of wisdom on everything from school decisions to love affairs to career moves. But, some of that golden advice can serve to be more of a hindrance than a catalyst for success.
Brazen Careerist writer Ben Drakes talks about a key piece of advice that parents often give about letting our work speak for itself. When it comes to getting that promotion, this advice can work against—not for—a promising millennial professional.
“Parents are awesome. They raised you, fed and clothed you, maybe even let you get away with a thing or two along the way,” Drakes writes. “But if you’re going to take their career advice, you might as well hand Jimmy-next-door the promotion yourself. Sure, a strong work ethic and willingness to do the dirty work that no one else wants are a solid foundation. It’s just not enough.
You don’t have to be a Darwinist to realize the workplace is competitive. Because of that, the biggest mistake you can make is to assume someone else is looking out for your career. Your boss may be a good dude, but no one cares about your career as much as you.
And Jimmy can barely tie his shoes, but you know what he can do? Schmooze.”