3 Common Mistakes That Will Derail Your Career

By Beverly Linao | Feb 01, 2016 10:21 PM EST

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We all have gone through times wherein we believe everything we have done everything, but our career life just won't improve. We are stuck in the same place for a long time. Well, you might be doing one thing wrong.

Check out the following 3 common mistakes that might be hindering you from moving forward with your career.

Ignoring Relationships

At work, we always want to get things done as soon as we can. That is why as much as possible, we focus on our work and don't mind the people around us. This is actually not advisable. It is vital that we pay attention to the things happening around us and build relationships with our co-workers.

"While it seems rational that people should only be judged on their performance, the reality is that interpersonal relationships matter just as much as performance in most cases," says Mark Goldman, a CPA at MGR Accounting Recruiters.

Not Dressing to Impress

Yes, looks matter - even at work. We usually take it for granted, but how we dress and beautify ourselves actually have impacts to how our boss and co-workers see us.

 "At work, you don't just represent yourself. At work, you're a walking/talking advertisement for your company's brand," says Carlota Zimmerman, head of Creativity Yenta. "Therefore, if you look like you dressed in the dark, and/or during a fire, if you look like an extra in a particularly melodramatic music video, you are sending a message that you don't take yourself, your professional goals or your company seriously."

Blurring the Line Between Personal and Professional

While it may be true that some professional choices are influenced by our personal life, it is also important that we know when and when not to let the latter affect the former. Also, it is important to note that we should not use personal connection for professional gains. Although that is sometimes unavoidable, do not be loud about it. When trying to negotiate leaves, salaries, and other work-related stuff, try your best to keep your personal choices not so obvious. 

"Managers usually already know that whatever you're negotiating will have a positive effect on you personally, but what they need to hear is how it will affect the company. If you're only focused on how you can help yourself, your career will suffer," says Brie Reynolds, director of online content at FlexJobs

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