At 10 Years Gone, What I’ve Learned About Work

Today is the 10th anniversary of a major milestone: My graduation from Syracuse University. I remember it snowed that day -- yes, on May 12. I also recall the butterflies in my stomach while I prepared to finally get my degree as well as a heady feeling of anticipation about what lay ahead.

Ten years later, I’m flooded with memories of my experiences in the world of work and how far I’ve come as a person and worker. As Robert Plant sings in Led Zeppelin’s “Ten Years Gone”: “Kind of makes me feel sometimes, didn't have to grow/But as the eagle leaves the nest, it's got so far to go.”

So in honor of the aluminum anniversary of me leaving college behind for the real world (feel free to buy me a gift), here are the top 10 things I’ve learned along the way that I’m passing along to the class of 2006:

1. When Considering a Job Offer, Consider What You Can Live With: Long commute? Bad vibe from the interviewer? Work that’s way over your head or much too easy? Listen to your gut before you say yes. It will rarely steer you wrong.

2. It Takes More than Talent: You’ve got to be likeable and get along with others, too. Be mindful of your image in the office, and adjust as necessary.

3. Your Coworkers Are Not Necessarily Your Friends: It’s fine to become friendly with those you share your workday with, and it even helps pass the time. But keep your guard up.

4. Don’t Let Others Take Advantage of You: Prime example: At my very first job out of college, my boss decided I should use my editing skills to whip his horrendous science fiction novel into shape -- on company time. Work hard, but set limits with others.

5. Keep Business and Romance Separate: Some swear a workplace romance can work. Personally, I had a miserable experience trying to mix work and love. My advice? Pursue romantic conquests on your own time.

6. Honesty and Accountability Are Key to Good Working Relationships: My dad always told me to keep my word, because I have nothing without it. If people can’t trust you, they won’t want to work with you. Keep it clean.

7. Never Stop Learning and Growing: If your job is keeping you stagnant, look for more stimulating work before your professional growth gets stunted.

8. Work/Life Balance Is the Way to Avoid Burnout: You’re eager to get out there and show your new employer what you can do, but remember: There are 24 hours in the day. You only spend eight of them at work. Make sure your personal life is as full as your time in the office.

9. You Will Make Mistakes -- It’s How You Handle Them That Matters: When you do, be a grown-up and admit it. Then fix the problem and move on.

10. Stay Passionate About Work: My energy level has waxed and waned over the years, but one thing is constant: I love what I do. That passion sustains me through the inevitable bad times.

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