Real World 101: Life After College

Who do you believe is the most responsible for guiding your career? Is it your boss, or the company? The answer is you. Master these ten tips and you'll be climbing the corporate ladder in no time.

Find a mentor: Do you admire a particular senior executive? Ask him or her to mentor you and show you what it really takes to reach a high level in the company.

Volunteer for opportunities: Raise your hand willingly and you'll quickly become a valued team player. Pretty soon, executives will be fighting for your services.

Meet deadlines: Don't let them slip by. Meet your deliverables on time, under budget, and as agreed.

Suggest a new project: Don't wait for your assignments. Be proactive and suggest new ideas. Become a brainstorming machine and you'll be viewed as innovative.

Be helpful and resourceful: Jump In! Lend a hand! Say yes! The more helpful you can be, the more indispensable you'll become to your organization.

Perform at the next level: Say you're an assistant, eager to get promoted to manager. Start acting like a manager now. Pretty soon your job title will match your effort.

Demonstrate your expertise: Are you a computer whiz? Do you love to present? Reveal your particular strengths and you'll be a high performer in no time.

Get involved in the industry: Start by joining a professional organization. You'll make connections and master the art of networking.

Respond quickly to all voicemails and emails: Nobody likes it when their voicemails or emails are ignored. Get back to people promptly and you'll earn a reputation as a go-getter.

Enjoy the ride: Don't be afraid to smile at work. Your colleagues will perceive you as an approachable, easy-to-work-with partner.

Ten tips courtesy of Jeff Cohen, principal of Bold Road, a writing, speaking, and consulting company that helps people reach their career, love and life potential.