5 Mistakes to Avoid at Work to Help You Boost Your Career

We all want to thrive in our jobs but there are times when we unintentionally stand in the way of our own success. Whether you feel like you are long overdue for a promotion, feeling self-conscious, or looking to get your groove back, watch out for these missteps that could be holding you back.  

“Whether you're starting a new job, joining a new team, or working towards a promotion, there are key mistakes that can prevent you from moving forward in your career,” says Julie Nisbet in her course, Mistakes You Should Avoid at Work.

As she explains, once you’re able to recognize certain toxic, self-destructive behaviors and replace them with positive habits, you can “get out of your own way and become the in-demand professional that employers want working on their teams.”

Avoid these five common workplace mistakes from Nisbet’s course and you’ll be well on your way to boost your career.

Avoid these 5 mistakes to boost your career

#1 Don’t take on too much too soon

When you join a new company or take on a new role, of course you want to make a good impression. And that may mean raising your hand for every opportunity that comes your way. Yes, you want to dive in and get in the groove quickly. Yes, you want to be open to learning. But taking on too much, too soon can be a mistake.

“Don't underestimate the amount of time it will take to learn new systems, jargon, acronyms, and company culture,” says Nisbet. “It's better to take on less and ensure that you're really knocking it out of the park early, than take on too much and immediately feel under pressure.”

Also, don’t take on busy work. Instead, keep an eye out “for the things that will have maximum impact or elevate your visibility in your company,” says Nisbet.

#2 Don’t complain

In some work environments, complaining can become so commonplace that it’s hard to even notice how pervasive it is, let alone stop that destructive cycle of negativity. 

“It's important not to make the mistake of complaining too much about the way things are without putting in the effort to make suggestions for improvements,” says Nisbet. 

Rather than rattling off complaints, ask questions. Instead of making demands, offer suggestions. 

As Nisbet explains, “It's possible that once you really dig in and ask the right questions about why things are done the way they are, you'll discover that they're in fact valid reasons that you didn't fully appreciate.”

#3 Don’t assume your boss is too busy for a check-in

Chances are your boss is busy—but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t be part of their day. After all, they're the primary person responsible for helping you take the next step in your career, whatever that may be. 

“No matter how busy they are, don't fall into the trap of not checking in regularly with your boss,” advises Nisbet. 

Consider setting up a standing one-on-one meeting, either weekly or twice a month. This is your opportunity to discuss your goals and what it will take to reach those goals. 

“It's important that your boss gets to know you as a person and knows where you want to be,” says Nisbet. “A good boss will be excited to help you get there, so check in regularly to make sure you're on the right path.”

#4 Don’t be too casual when communicating about sticky topics

Especially in the transition to remote work, we’ve all gotten used to interacting with colleagues more freely by text and Teams chat. All of these digital channels are a convenient, easy way to connect with colleagues and get work done, but don’t let conversation slip into an overly casual tone. 

Keep your communication professional, advises Nisbet. 

And if you find yourself in a heated conversation or disagreeing over something on one of these channels, pick up the phone, jump on a video call, or (if it’s an option), meet in person.

 “It's always easier to resolve in person rather than by text,” she says. 

#5 Don’t have tunnel vision—you’ll miss new opportunities

One of the biggest hurdles to your career growth is tunnel vision, where all you can see is the role you’re currently in and a single path forward. Especially if you work for a bigger organization, there are opportunities everywhere, explains Nisbet. 

“I know plenty of people who have had the equivalent of three or four different jobs all within the same company,” she shares.

Be on the lookout for opportunities beyond your current role, division, or department: Is there an intriguing project you’d like to work on? A certain leader you’d love to work with? A role that you may not (yet) be qualified for, but that you’d love to one day step into? 

Reach out to colleagues and leaders in other parts of the company. The more you understand the opportunities available, the better you’ll be able to build your skills and experience to reach your goals. 

As Nisbet says, “Your current company is your best network, so take advantage of it.” 

For more mistakes to avoid at work—21 in total, including not asking for help, not spreading office gossip, and not getting distracted—watch Mistakes You Should Avoid at Work with Julie Nisbet.