Helpful Things All Young Professionals Need ...

One of the things all young professionals need is a home office. Even if you have a fully loaded office at work, you will still need one at home. It doesn’t need to be extensive – in fact it can just be a desk with some stationery, folders, a computer and a printer. Regardless, you will most likely need a place where you can store and sort through paperwork, create and send documents, and other work-related things where you need an established work space.

This one is a given! Whether you’ve landed your dream job or are still in the process of cold calling companies for an interview, you will most definitely need an office wardrobe. An office wardrobe usually consists of fashion staples such as a LBD (little black dress), blazer, dress pants, dress shirts, etc... Whether you are employed or not, you will need clothes that make you look presentable, hirable and professional.

Great whether you have a job or not, LinkedIn is like the Facebook of the working world. LinkedIn is where you can connect with people whom you know in a professional manner as well as see what connections you have through your friends. While on the topic of social media, make sure all your posts are appropriate and G-rated all across all your social media accounts – employers who are looking to hire new employees are known to search candidate's name on search engines and social media websites.

Some people feel weird about networking because they feel like they’re cheating on their boss or current job. However, networking, especially with the right people, can open a lot of doors for you in the future. Furthermore, some people find it intimidating or awkward approaching someone and trying to pitch themselves. If you feel like you’re being phony when approaching someone to network, practice with friends or co-workers so you don’t sound like a salesperson trying to sell yourself.

If you’re a young professional or someone who is starting in a new line of work, you will most likely have to start at the bottom. However, don’t let that discourage you. Instead, discipline yourself to work hard, not to take any short cuts, and respect the feedback and opinions of your superiors. In my opinion, I think discipline is the most important characteristic someone needs to become successful.

Especially if you’re young, you might have friends who are still in their partying phase. Now, I’m a strong believer of “work hard, play hard” but it’s tempting to “work hard sometimes, play hard all the time.” Plus, when you have friends who don’t understand your goals or responsibilities, they can lead you down the wrong path. Keep your old friends but make new friends who are headed down the same path as you. You’ll find them encouraging and sympathetic when you need it, plus they’ll understand you in a way your old friends won’t.

Welcome to the 21st century where everything is run by technology. No matter how old you are or what profession you’re in, most likely your job has been drastically affected by technology in the last 15 years. Although most of us have a basic understanding of how to type up documents or surf the internet, you’ll be at a great advantage if you know how to use several, complicated computer programs that the average person cannot master.

Being young in the work place is exciting because you finally feel some gratification – after all, you’re pursuing a career and you’re making a real income. However, don’t be caught not having the necessary tools all young professionals need. What are other things all young professionals need?