This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at Towson chapter.
As young adults, we cannot be people pleasers anymore. Gone are the days where we needed everyone to like us and when we cared what other people thought. As we enter into the workforce, there are certain things we must do to appear more assertive professionally and even personally.
- Learn how to say no: The professional reason behind this is the fact that since you will be one of the new employees on the block, the older, more seasoned employees will believe they can make you do some of their brunt work. You have to learn to say no because you are not a pushover; they are on the same level that you are. Personally, you need to learn how to say no because if you do not want to do something, you should not feel like you are obligated to do it. It shows your friends that you have a certain amount of respect for yourself.
- Learn how to voice your own ideas: Professionally, it shows your boss that you are creative and intuitive and that you have something to bring to the table. It shows your friends and peers that you are a leader that has your own ideas, too.
- Dress the part: Professionally, it should go without saying. You should look neat and thoroughly hygienic and like you care about your appearance and mean business. So, no, you cannot wear leggings, crop tops or flip flops. Personally, you want your friends to hold you to high standards. Your friends will not expect great things from you if you do not look the part.
- Learn how to talk in front of people: I have to admit. I have problems with this. Professionally, it shows people that you can be a leader and that you have your own voice and can speak. Personally, if you don’t speak up, that is how you can get pushed around.