If you could go back in time? what Career Advice would you give to your Younger Self?

by Richard , updated on November 1, 2020

Have you ever really regretted something that you did, shaken your head and thought “If only I could have my time over!”

Isn’t hindsight wonderful!

Just imagine if you had an opportunity to turn back the hands of time and speak to yourself as a 21 year old.

What career advice would you give to yourself?

InterviewIQ’s very own Debbie Scott came up with the idea for this fascinating take on career advice.

Thanks Deb!

We’ve collected the following quotes from some of the top experts in their respective fields.

Let their considerable career and life experience help you to avoid some of the ‘potholes’ in the ‘road of life’.

Whether you’re 21 or, like me just a little bit older, these tips can help you make sound decisions or find the right path in life.

These golden quotes are great examples of the power of networking on Twitter, so I’ve included each of our expert’s twitter handles.

Where was Twitter when I was 21?

“Your career is a long game. Be patient and seek a mentor right away.”

Jessica Merrell, HR, Technology & Workplace Analyst – Oklahoma, USA.  You can follow Jessica on Twitter @blogging4jobs

“My advice? Don’t be afraid to take chances. No risk, no reward. Plus, you learn most from your mistakes!”

Stacy Donovan Zapar, Social Recruiting Trainer – California, USA. You can follow Stacy on Twitter @StacyZapar

“I would say follow your instinct, play with a straight bat always. and work very, very hard.”

Greg Savage, CEO of Firebrand Talent – Sydney, Australia. You can follow Greg on Twitter @Greg_Savage

“Don’t stay in a job that makes you miserable for one more minute. Don’t let fear of the unknown drive you.”

Gayle Howard, Top Margin – Melbourne, Australia. You can follow Gayle on Twitter @GayleHoward

“Taste all the flavours until you find one you love. Sometimes the answer isn’t what it seems. Don’t be afraid to try things outside your comfort zone. Treat life like an adventure!”

Hannah Morgan, Career Sherpa – New York, USA. You can follow Hannah on Twitter @careersherpa

“Don’t grab the first opportunity that you think will make you look successful. Instead, choose the one that will bring you fulfillment”.

Claire Stretch, Filmstretch online video production – Sydney, Australia. You can follow Claire on Twitter @clairestretch

“I would say start your own business for sure.  Take a good few years before the penny drops. The key is to do something you enjoy and you’ll automatically get good at it. You solve people’s problems and you can turn that into a business of your own. Start doing something you enjoy doing, learn the trade and understand what the business models are.”

Jorgen Sundberg, Social Media consultant & trainer for recruitment & HR at Link Humans – London, UK. You can follow Jorgen on Twitter @JorgenSundberg

“Go with your passion and not the starting salary. The money and success will come naturally if you love what you do.”

Laurie DesAutels, Blogger and career coach – Texas, USA. You can follow Laurie on Twitter @LaurieDesAutels

As always, we’d love to hear your thoughts.

So please let us know what advice you’d give to your younger self.

 

Richard

Did this article stand out from the crowd? If yes, please retweet, post it on Facebook or LinkedIn, and /or email it so it can help others. I'd also love to know YOUR take. Please feel free to comment below.

{ 2 comments… read them below or add one }

Jorgen Sundberg November 27, 2012 at 3:02 am

Not sure mine makes much sense, think it was a string of tweets….
Should read something like:

1. Do something you enjoy (money is less important at this stage)
2. Get good at it (will take a few years)
3. What do customers actually pay for? How can you provide this?
4. Set up on your own (and make more money)
5. Enjoy life (and stop worrying about career advice)

Orlando Haynes November 27, 2012 at 3:31 pm

I would have finished my degree earlier. Having your education out the way helps you focus on your next venture. It also helps you cultivate discpline and drive.

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