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If you’ve ever wondered how we come up with new topics for blog posts, here’s a little insight. Many of the topics that we write about are the result of conversations that take place in our offices on a variety of subjects. Recently, we found ourselves discussing our parents and the good and bad advice they have given us throughout the years. During this conversation somebody made the suggestion that we turn that discussion into a blog post. That seemed like a great idea, but we thought it might be a bit too generic. Thus, the decision was made to make the post specifically about good and bad career advice many of us have received from our parents. See! we do more than answer your requests to write my essay.

The bad:

Anybody who wants a job badly enough can get one

Not only is this bad advice, it can be quite hurtful to somebody who is working very hard to find a job, and has simply not been able to find a job. In many cases, parents give this advice because they had an easy time finding jobs when they were young, and expect their children to have the same experience. Unfortunately, many things have changed over the years, and this statement is no longer universally true.

Go into field XYZ and you’ll always have a job

There are a few things wrong here. First of all, there are no safe fields. Changes in economy, technical advances, and other factors can cause demand for workers in certain fields to dwindle overnight. In some cases, careers that were once considered viable simply cease to exist. Do you know anybody who is a key punch operator? Of course not! There are no key punch operators. The same goes for elevator operators, and bowling pin setters.

Art degrees are a waste of money

For some people, it is impossible to consider that a degree would be worthwhile unless it leads directly to lucrative employment. Others simply fail to consider that fine arts degrees can lead into a variety of career fields, none of which involve becoming a starving artist.

Companies always reward loyalty

It is foolish to believe that most companies value anything other than results. No job seeker should make an assumption that their loyalty will be rewarded. Instead, they should focus on making career decisions that are best for them.

You’re too young to be an entrepreneur

If you receive this advice from your parents, it is because they think you should get some experience  under your belt before taking that leap. Unfortunately if you wait, there is a good chance that you will have financial and personal obligations that make breaking out on your own impossible. If you have talent, passion, and a great idea, there is no reason to wait.

The good:

You don’t have to stick to a single career path for the rest of your life

Most people change career paths at least once. If your parents have given you this advice to alleviate your fears about the future, listen to them. This is great advice.

Do what you love, but know what you are getting into

There is nothing wrong with going into a field because it is something that you love. However, before you  make a decision about any career, do your research. Job prospects, salary ranges, and the likelihood that you will have to move to become successful vary widely depending on your career choices. Be sure that you are willing to live within your means, and that your desired lifestyle doesn’t exceed your prospects.

Learn a marketable skill

One of our writers graduated from college with a degree in business administration. While many of the other students in that program struggled to find jobs, she landed a job with a major electronics store before she graduated. Twelve months after that, she was placed in a program to train for a management program at the stores headquarters. What was her edge? She took a class on computer repair which led her to an entry level position repairing computers that were under warranty. Then, when a job opened at headquarters, she applied.

Don’t be afraid to speak up

Being shy will not lead to career success. Great bosses and companies that are on the rise want employees with ideas and opinions. They also want employees who are willing to stand up for what they believe in.

Written by Nicole Boyer