So, you’ve got your heart set on becoming a unicorn trainer or a chocolate taster for a living? Well, join the club! While those dream jobs are as elusive as finding Wi-Fi in a forest, let’s discuss some slightly more attainable goals and how to get there.
The Art of Pretending to Love Excel
Because nothing screams “employable” like mastering the art of spreadsheet wizardry. Learn to embrace the pivot table like it’s your long-lost friend.
Online Courses: Websites like Coursera, Udemy, and LinkedIn Learning offer comprehensive courses on Excel, from beginner to advanced levels. These courses often come with hands-on exercises that help solidify your understanding.
Practice Makes Perfect: The more you use Excel, the more familiar you become with its quirks. Try to incorporate it into your daily tasks, even for simple things like tracking personal finances or planning a trip.
Join Excel Forums: Online communities like Reddit and Stack Exchange are filled with Excel enthusiasts who are always willing to help. Plus, you’ll find a treasure trove of tips and tricks shared by experienced users.
YouTube Tutorials: Sometimes, a visual guide can make all the difference. Channels like ExcelIsFun and Leila Gharani offer step-by-step tutorials on a wide range of Excel functions and features.
Surviving Endless Zoom Calls
Congratulations, you now have the endurance of a marathon runner! Tips on how to look interested while your cat knocks over your coffee in the background.
Create a Distraction-Free Workspace: Set up your workspace in a quiet area where you’re less likely to be interrupted by family members or pets.
Use Virtual Backgrounds: If your home office isn’t exactly picturesque, virtual backgrounds can help you maintain a professional appearance.
Take Regular Breaks: Sitting through back-to-back Zoom calls can be exhausting. Make sure to schedule short breaks to stretch, hydrate, and refresh your mind.
The Skill of Email Jargon Translation
“Let’s circle back” and “per my last email” – deciphering corporate speak to avoid those accidental office faux pas.
Understand Common Phrases: Familiarise yourself with common corporate phrases and their meanings. This will help you navigate office emails more effectively.
Ask for Clarification: If you’re unsure about the meaning of a particular phrase, don’t hesitate to ask for clarification. It’s better to ask than to make an incorrect assumption.
Use Clear Language: When composing your emails, aim for clarity and simplicity. Avoid using jargon unless it’s necessary for the context.
Networking: AKA Becoming a Professional Schmoozer
How to charm your way into opportunities without feeling like a used car salesman. Pro tip: bring donuts.
Join Professional Associations: Become a member of industry-specific associations to meet like-minded professionals and expand your network.
Attend Industry Events: Attend conferences, seminars, and workshops to connect with potential employers and industry experts.
Leverage Social Media: Use platforms like LinkedIn to build your professional network. Share relevant content, engage with posts, and reach out to connections for informational interviews.
The Fine Line Between Confidence and Arrogance
Strutting your stuff without coming off like you own the place. Because confidence is key, but nobody likes a know-it-all.
Be a Good Listener: Show genuine interest in others by listening actively and asking thoughtful questions. This demonstrates humility and respect.
Show Humility: Acknowledge your mistakes and be open to feedback. This shows that you’re willing to learn and grow.
Give Credit to Others: Recognise and appreciate the contributions of your colleagues. Sharing credit fosters a positive team environment and demonstrates your leadership qualities.
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