DREIESKIVA​|Roald Kvam

Navigating a career is rarely straightforward. Along the way, I’ve encountered lessons that weren’t always easy to learn but have proven invaluable over time. Here are five of those hard-earned insights to help you grow in your own career – without the painful detours.

1. You Don’t Need to Know Everything

There’s a misconception that in order to succeed, you must have all the answers. But the truth is, nobody knows everything, and expecting yourself to be an exception only adds unnecessary pressure.

Not knowing something isn’t a sign of weakness; rather, it’s an opportunity for growth. Admitting gaps in knowledge shows that you’re humble and open to learning – qualities that leaders value highly.

Action Step: Ask questions often and early. Whether you’re new or experienced, asking clarifying questions shows that you’re engaged and committed to getting it right. Embrace curiosity; the more you ask, the faster you’ll learn, and people will appreciate your drive to truly understand.

2. Find an Inside ‘Buddy’ for Guidance and Support

Having someone you can lean on for honest guidance can make all the difference. Building a connection with a supportive peer or mentor helps you navigate challenges and better understand the unspoken dynamics within your workplace.

An empathetic ally can provide you with insights, from feedback on your performance to advice on navigating office politics. A mentor, for instance, can share career lessons from their own experience, giving you a broader perspective and the confidence to handle difficult situations.

Action Step: Reach out to someone whose skills and approach you admire. Offer something in return – a skill you can teach, a perspective you can share, or a willingness to assist them in their projects. A good mentor-mentee relationship is mutually beneficial and goes a long way in supporting your growth.

3. Don’t Fear Leaders – They’re Human Too

It’s common to feel intimidated by managers and leaders, but distancing yourself only builds barriers. Leaders appreciate employees who take an interest in the company and its goals.

Leaders are more approachable than they often seem, and by engaging with them, you’ll gain insights that can guide your work and career trajectory. When you show that you respect their perspective and value their time, it establishes you as someone who’s invested in the organization.

Action Step: Learn what your leaders are passionate about – whether it’s an area of the business, a specific project, or a personal interest. A simple greeting or brief chat can break the ice. Smile, be sincere, and look for opportunities to show genuine interest. Over time, these small gestures build rapport, making them more likely to notice and support your efforts.

4. Don’t Work in Isolation – Seek Opportunities to Collaborate

Working independently has its benefits, but a habit of isolation limits your growth and reduces your impact. Collaboration not only strengthens your work but also creates networks of support that can elevate your career.

When you reach out to help others or share knowledge, you build a reputation as a team player, someone willing to step up and contribute. People remember those who support them, and your colleagues will be more inclined to return the favor when you need it.

Action Step: Take initiative to identify areas where you and others can work together, whether it’s a project, a process improvement, or cross-departmental collaboration. Volunteer your help without expecting immediate returns; simply offering support builds goodwill. Over time, your network will grow, and you’ll be part of a culture of cooperation, not isolation.

5. Over-Communicate Your Progress and Wins

In an effort to appear humble, it’s easy to downplay achievements or go silent, especially if we’re concerned about coming across as «bragging.» But a lack of communication often means your accomplishments remain unnoticed.

Sharing your wins isn’t self-promotion if done with intention – it’s a way to highlight lessons learned and contribute to team knowledge. When colleagues and leaders see your progress and insights, they’re more likely to see your value and give you more opportunities to shine.

Action Step: Find a way to communicate your wins as learnings that benefit others. Share progress updates with context, explaining how they’ve impacted your team or goals. Framing your accomplishments as insights keeps the focus on value rather than self-promotion and fosters a positive, open environment.

— — —

Each of these lessons taught me how to be more effective, connected, and resilient in my career. While learning them was sometimes challenging, these insights have become fundamental to my approach at work. I hope they can help you too, to navigate your career with confidence and clarity.