As we grow older and begin applying to graduate programs and jobs, we begin to realize that getting what you want is never a guarantee. Though it may sound bleak, learning to deal with rejection is a major part of becoming an adult, and moreover, a career-minded individual.

This week, we’ll be shedding some light on these seemingly depressing scenarios, like not getting the job you wanted or being denied from the law school of your dreams. No matter the circumstance, it’s sometimes necessary to deal with rejection before you catch a break in the career world. Perseverance is a must for all young professionals, and we know that with some effort and a positive attitude, everyone can reach their ambitions.

We’d love to hear what you think about this touchy subject. Can you think of a time you’ve been rejected by a college, employer, or other institution? How did you cope?

From a young age, everyone has some idea of what they want to be when they grow up. As we grow older, those initial dreams start to grow into career aspirations that shape your education, internship experience, and eventual life path. Taking an entry-level position is the best way to get your foot in the door, and once you’ve solidified your place in a company, you may start wondering when you’ll move upward.

Getting promoted is one of the biggest honors a company can give an employee, and it’s that sense of value that helps people form fulfilling, lasting careers overall. But while it’s ultimately up to the employer to promote the employee, there’s plenty you can do to boost your chances of moving up. Let’s go through a few tips that’ll help you get promoted:

1.Be visible: When trying to fill an open position, chances are your superior will think of the most visible employees first. It’s always important to make yourself useful at work, and always having a project to do, an e-mail to answer, or a meeting to attend will make you seem accessible.

2.Don’t be afraid to voice your opinions: Whether you’re in a big meeting or a minor brainstorming session, it’s always key to share your ideas. Even if you’re a hard worker, you still won’t make a strong impression unless you share what’s on your mind. Knowing when to speak up is also crucial – never talk just to hear your own voice, and always make sure you have a clear and articulate idea of what you want to say before you open your mouth. You’ll not only seem more prepared, you’ll gain respect as well.

3.Know your place: In any situation, it’s important to respect those around you. But when you’re trying to get promoted, it’s especially important to know where you stand as a member of the company. Respecting your superiors, as well as knowing your boundaries with your peers, can make or break your chances of getting promoted. Always defer to those in higher positions by using their proper names, and keep the office gossip to a minimum. Additionally, it’s important to know when to step aside and let someone else take the lead on a given project. While it may seem impressive to lead every meeting or project, it’s never good to be too domineering.

Now that we’ve covered the basics of getting hired, networking, and quitting a job you no longer want, it’s time to take a step back and examine one of the most significant parts of the job world – getting promoted. Hinting that you’re ready for a promotion can be tricky, especially when you don’t want your superior to think you’re pushy or demanding. Thankfully, there are some key boundaries that designate assertiveness from disrespect in situations like this.

This week, we’re going to investigate the most effective ways to get promoted at work. Whether you’re looking to advance from an entry level job, or you’re vying for an executive position, we’re here to make things a little more simple.

What do you think are the best ways to advance your position at work? Have you ever experienced something like this yourself?

Figuring out how to quit a job tactfully and effectively is one of the most difficult aspects of career management. However, it’s also the most important thing you can do to achieve your professional goals. Today, we’re focusing on the ins-and-outs of saying goodbye, and how to leave a company while still ensuring a good reference for future employers.

For young professionals, most first jobs are stepping stones to higher aspirations, and while few people accept an entry-level position with the intention of quitting, it’s only realistic to remind yourself that other opportunities await. With that in mind, let’s explore a few key tips for making your quitting endeavor a bit less nerve-racking:

1. Trust Yourself: When you make the decision to quit, it’s only natural to doubt yourself at some point afterwards. Even though you might feel nervous to utter the words “I quit,” it’s ridiculously important to remind yourself of why you’re leaving your job and what you’re ultimately trying to achieve. The moral? Trust your instincts – you have them for a reason, and you’ll be glad you stuck to your convictions in the end.
2. Be prepared: Before you actually quit, make sure you’ve reviewed the terms of your employment. Certain jobs include clauses specifying severance, vacation time, and other factors you may want to consider when deciding how to leave a company. If you’re quitting your job with the guarantee of a new position elsewhere, you may also want to have your offer in writing before you resign.
3. Be clear: When confronting a nerve-racking situation, it’s often difficult to stay composed. Before quitting, be sure to make an appointment with your superiors and insinuate the seriousness of the conversation so they know what to expect. You should also make sure to formulate your resignation in a way your boss can clearly follow, making sure not to stumble on your words, ramble, or leave out any important details (i.e. two weeks notice). If your thoughts seem rational, your boss is much more likely to respect your departure and maintain a positive opinion of your character overall.

What other aspects of quitting do you think are important? Have you ever had experience leaving a

This week, we’re discussing the importance of charisma in the workplace. While it may seem superficial to some, being generally well liked is a key component to advancing your career and maintaining office relations. Combined with a solid work ethic and valuable contributions, a keen sense of networking can be the key to fulfilling your career aspirations.

Though it may seem simple, the art of schmoozing far exceeds traditional brown-nosing, elbow-rubbing, or any other euphemism you’d prefer. We’re here to give you the inside scoop on charisma, how to get in good with your coworkers and superiors, and most importantly, how to feel natural doing it. Here’s the run down on some networking basics:

1. Confidence: When you’re sure of yourself, your peers will begin to notice and feel more comfortable around you as a result. A strong sense of purpose behind your words and actions will persuade others into the mindset that you’re a competent leader, which will help you gain both trust and respect. When you’re having a conversation with a coworker, it’s important
2. Humility: Maintaining a balance between confidence and deference is the most difficult part of networking, but you can easily achieve it by reminding yourself of your inter-office status. AS far as most hierarchies go, twenty somethings are near the bottom of the workplace totem pole, with upper-level professionals usually in their 30s and 40s. Respecting your authority figures will get you a long way, and reminding yourself of your place in the office will keep your ego under control. Confident deference is the key: know your place, and know it well.
3. Don’t take yourself too seriously: Knowing when to poke fun at yourself is a key aspect of the schmoozing game. While you should normally maintain a strong sense of self, you should also be aware that you’re still human. Say you make 50 copies of the wrong memo for a meeting that’s scheduled later that day. You’ll look much better taking the mistake in stride and casually laughing about it than a) beating yourself up, b) pretending you did nothing wrong, or c) overcompensating with excessive apologizing.

What other aspects of schmoozing do you think are integral to career advancement? Do you think networking is a useful tool in giving yourself a competitive edge?