Advice can come to you directly or when you least expect it. Whether it was something my parents said, a business seminar, a religious activity or just life’s experiences, good advice can give you a new perspective on life or be a humbling reminder of your actions.

Treat people how you want to be treated

Although this appears to be obvious, it’s not always the easiest to do. It’s human nature to be defensive. However, if you give out ‘good vibes’, you’ll be sure to get them back. Whether professional or personal, treating people with respect goes a very long way. If you want people to treat you nicely, treat them nicely. If you want someone to help you, you must first be a helpful person. One thing I’ve learned, the accounting world is a very, very small world. Whatever you say or do will eventually come back to you, good or bad.

 Never grow up (always keep learning)

As a child, I asked a lot of questions, sometimes to my demise. But, one thing I did was learn. With the rise of new technologies and industries it’s imperative to keep up (or try) with the next big ideas. Sometimes, you need to learn a new skill or be more flexible within a job position. Accept that change and learn from it. Keeping an inquisitive spirit will be very helpful in these changing times. The person that knows everything knows nothing.

Network

When networking comes to mind, most people think that’s handing out tons of business cards to random strangers (which is not entirely incorrect). You don’t have to make friends with everyone in the room, but a few quality contacts can make a big impact on your career. Local business chamber events and business mixers are a great place to meet like-minded professionals who may need your services and vice versa. And, if you are handing out business cards to random strangers, always follow-up with phone call or email; who knows where it may lead. Although we are in the ‘numbers’ business, we are really in the ‘people’ business. In order to truly grow professionally, you must show that you can do more than crunch numbers.

 Get involved

Although it may not pay in US dollars (or in bitcoin), volunteering pays personal and professional dividends. Getting involved with civic and charitable organizations is a great way to not only make a positive impact on your community, but to expand your network (see above). Finding a cause that you are passionate about will make your experience more enjoyable. Involvement at the board-member level is better than being just a general member, because it may provide leadership experience that you may not otherwise obtain.

I’m sure you have received some good advice over the years. But, the difference between good advice and great advice is action. What happens next is up to you.

Sidebar – Try to travel while still fairly young. It’s generally cheaper and your body is a lot more flexible.

Allyse Carter, CPA