Advice for Young Professionals

Here’s a secret the executives won’t tell you: in corporate America, a high achiever’s reward is more work. Now, hold on a second; wanting to do well and put forward quality work is not an inherently bad thing. In fact, we should all strive to be the kind of dependable employee our bosses can rely on. But in order to remain energized and passionate about the work you’re doing, you need to know how to set boundaries and stick up for yourself. This week, we at the Edge sat down with Evoke Micromass President Rosanne Johnson and learned the do’s and don’ts of being a young professional. 

Getting Your Voice Heard

Going into the workforce is like being an underclassman all over again. You’re in an unfamiliar environment, surrounded by people who know more than you do. There is often a stereotype that junior-level employees should be silent little worker bees. Although we may lack field experience, we make up for it with our new, fresh ideas. So, what’s the best way to get your voice heard when surrounded by daunting, industry giants? Johnson says, “if you can’t beat ‘em, join ‘em.” But how? 

Really understanding the hierarchy of influence in a company and why individuals have the sway they do is a great starting point. If you have a great idea but have trouble getting it across in a meeting, why not “borrow someone’s credibility?” Informally sit down with a higher-level employee that you admire and run your proposal by them. This is a win-win opportunity, where they can either support and amplify your ideas or offer you valuable feedback.

Building a strong relationship with your coworkers will help you in so many ways; they can be a great mentor for you, offer a different perspective and simply make your work environment less tense. Asking questions and seeking out advice takes a kind of humility that will gain you respect. If you’re constantly hungry for knowledge and striving for greatness, people will take note. After all, those that can best understand your work ethic are going to be the ones vouching for you.

Dealing with “Bosszilla”

It’s inevitable. At some point in our careers, we will be faced with the dreaded, horrible boss—the kind where no matter how hard you try, you will never truly understand each other. Johnson urges young professionals to “look horizontally instead of vertically.”

If you aren’t gaining clarity from your boss, look to your coworkers. Maybe there is one person that knows more about a task than you do, or someone you feel comfortable asking questions to. It could be a peer, someone in a different department or a higher-level employee you look up to. Nonetheless, there is bound to be someone nearby that is willing to be a resource for you. All you can worry about is putting forward the most consistent, quality work.

Though working in a team may not always be enjoyable, learning experiences rarely are. There is value in being scrappy, resourceful and resilient in the workplace. You don’t get places by throwing in the towel when things get tough. There is a reason why you were chosen to do what you do. Focus on that and push through. 

Rosanne’s Three Rules

Whenever Rosanne hires a new employee, she teaches them her Rosanne-isms.

What’s the worst that can happen?

As Rosanne’s daughter, this is my least favorite piece of advice to get in any context. It's a lot easier said than done, Mom! But there is some truth to it. It takes a lot of guts to stick up for yourself, defend your ideas and overall put yourself out there. So let yourself be passionate and think outside of the box. One of these days, that bravery is going to pay off in a big way. 

The second best answer is “no.” 

While it can be hard to hear at times, a “no” can be a freeing experience. It takes the pressure off of perfection, allowing you to be ambitious, take risks and be receptive to feedback. If the criticism you receive is truly constructive, it’ll point you in the right direction.

What does success look like?

“If you understand what you need to do to be successful—with a conversation, in an assignment, in this job—it helps you to be able to set goals for yourself and truly evaluate the work you’re putting forward.” If you are not achieving these goals, it is important to assess what is holding you back. Is it your environment, or is it you?

This advice doesn’t just apply to the workforce. Think about group projects, or even friendships. Knowing how to communicate, be vulnerable and stick up for yourself follows you in all aspects of your life. It’s time for you to start commanding the respect that you deserve.