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From experience, with age comes wisdom. Here is my advice to a young ambitious
employee looking to climb the corporate ladder, become an entrepreneur or aspire
to help make life better for others. Realize that times have changed. How your
mother or your father became successful is a whole different scenario than the job market today. In my travels, the major mistake I have seen new employees make are a lack of common sense. Everyone is very highly educated today, so that is not a problem. They sabotage themselves by three things. First not dressing for success, attire is a sign of respect and business attire still applies. Look professional and sharp and it will carry you much further. Present the proper image. Second, language. We know you are smart, but you need to raise your sentences to above the second grade level. Once you write something it is a permanent document. Don't forget that and it will serve you well. Third, make sure you understand that YOU are your own company. Your responsibility is still to serve the company that hired you, however, it is a transient society today with no loyalties. Don't be a baby and expect to be coddled. Companies today are primarily in business to make a profit. There are laws in effect that keep them from exploiting you but don't expect them to "take care" of you. The salary and benefits are enough. If you can't make the cut, there is someone to replace you. It is that simple. Companies realize there is no long-term retention any more. If you stay, that is a bonus but they really don't expect it. So take a reality check and ask yourself the question,

how would I act if it were my company? If you use that principle, you will see
you would probably do things the same. Put your best foot forward and aim for success.

Learn more about this author, Linda Louise Stark.
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