Rules are meant to be broken, and this is especially true when it comes to much of the well-intentioned career advice we hear regularly. Many “career rules” are outdated or merely suggestions, not rigid commandments.
Take career advice with a grain of salt and do what works best for you, both personally and professionally. While rules have their purpose in providing order and direction, they don’t always apply equally to everyone. Here are 10 career rules worth reconsidering:
1. Only Apply for Jobs Where You Meet 100% of the Qualifications
Don’t limit yourself to positions that match your qualifications perfectly. Job descriptions are often a wish list from employers. Most are flexible about the skills and experience they’re looking for. If you believe you can excel with some training, go ahead and apply! Employers value the willingness to learn and adapt.
2. Apply for Every Job You See
Avoid the temptation to apply for every vacancy you come across. Instead, focus on opportunities that truly align with your skills and interests. Take time to tailor your resume and cover letter for each application and leverage your network. Quality applications outweigh quantity.
A targeted approach is far more effective and rewarding in the long run.
3. Don’t Talk About Money
Discussing salary is crucial.
Many job listings omit salary details, and conventional wisdom suggests avoiding the topic until an offer is on the table. This workplace etiquette needs to change. Let’s be honest: the reason we work is to get paid. Salary is a critical factor in determining if the role is right for you.
Ask about the salary range in the initial interview to ensure the position aligns with your expectations. This saves time for both parties and makes negotiations more transparent and effective.
4. Don’t Ask Too Many Questions in Interviews
Asking questions during interviews is essential. Inquire about company culture, growth opportunities, and what a typical day in the role looks like. Your questions demonstrate interest and help you decide if the company is the right fit for you.
The questions you ask reveal as much about you as your resume. They foster a productive, two-way conversation that provides a well-rounded view of the role, culture, and organization.
5. Do What You’re Told
Blindly following instructions is not valued in the modern workplace. Challenge the status quo, propose improvements, and question processes constructively. This shows initiative and can lead to positive changes within the organization.
Never accept an answer like “That’s just how we do things here.”
6. Hard Work Alone Will Lead to Success
Working hard is important but doesn’t guarantee recognition or promotion. This doesn’t mean becoming apathetic or careless. Do your job to the best of your ability, but remember that hard work alone isn’t everything.
Ask for what you want, take your breaks, and find a healthy work-life balance. Working smart is just as important as working hard.
7. It’s Impossible to ‘Have It All’
It’s possible to have a fulfilling career and a balanced personal life. Look for employers who value work-life balance and offer flexibility. With remote work and other non-traditional arrangements, new opportunities are emerging.
Career planning is a dynamic process. You’re not confined to traditional career paths and can explore “slashing”—pursuing more than one professional project simultaneously. The work world has changed, and so should your career expectations.
There’s no need to sacrifice everything. Great employers will work with you to find the right balance for everyone.
8. Career Progress Means Climbing the Corporate Ladder
Career growth isn’t limited to promotions. Lateral moves, entrepreneurship, and satisfaction in your current role are also valid forms of progress. Choose the path that best fits your goals and values.
9. Love What You Do
Not everyone loves their job, and that’s okay. Appreciate the stability, salary, and benefits your job provides. Focus on the positives, like colleagues and growth opportunities, even if the work itself isn’t your passion.
For many, work supports their true passions—funding travel or their children’s interests. Loving your job isn’t essential; valuing stability and saving for the future is equally important.
10. Stay as Long as You Can
In today’s job market, loyalty to one company isn’t always rewarded. Job changes can bring growth and new opportunities. Don’t be afraid to explore new possibilities to revitalize your career.
True progress is about breaking barriers.
