What's the Best Career Advice You've Ever Received?

Bhart Sarin, Global Procurement and Travel, Ingredion

"Nothing in the world can take the place of persistence. Talent will not; nothing is more common than unsuccessful men with talent. Genius will not; unrewarded genius is almost a proverb. Education will not; the world is full of educated derelicts. Persistence and determination alone are omnipotent. The slogan 'Press on' has solved and always will solve the problems of the human race."—President Calvin Coolidge

Carolyn Pund, CMP, CMM, Senior Manager, Global Strategic Meetings Management, Cisco Systems

"Don't succeed at work and fail at home."

Susan Dupart, Senior Director, Global Travel, Meetings, Corporate Card & Mobility McAfee

"Work as if it was your first day.

Forgive as soon as possible.

Love without boundaries.

Laugh without control.

And never stop smiling!"

Kari Wendel, SMMC, Senior Director, Strategic Meetings Management, Carlson Wagonlit Meetings & Events

“Anything worth doing is worth doing well.”

“Aspire quietly.”

Angie Henderson, Strategic Meetings and Hotel Manager, Apple Inc.

“Never take no from someone who doesn’t have the power to say yes!”

Shirley Kuhloie, Senior Manager, Global Meeting Services, Oracle

"Be passionate and enthusiastic about what you do and remember to thank those who provide support and direction along the way. Treat your boss and coworkers as if they are your customers."

Ira Almeas, CITE, President, Impact Incentives & Meetings

"Do something that you're passionate about and you’ll be successful."

Take a piece of paper and put a line down the center. On one side list all the things you enjoy and on the other side list all the things you are good at. I was unaware of the incentive travel industry while studying marketing; however, I discovered my destiny after clearly seeing that my passion for travel, people, and marketing existed as a career option.

Jane Schuldt, CITE, President, World Marketing Group

"The following combine life lessons with work. Some of them started at home as parental advice but they're also totally applicable in my business life:

"In the beginning and in the end, your word is what matters and what defines."

"Say what you mean. Mean what you say."

"Patience pays."

"Keep your eyes on the prize."

"Pay it forward."

Shireen Moore, Senior VP, Marketing, Creative Group

"Don't be discouraged if you think you are not appreciated or that your career is not moving ahead as you envision. You are responsible for your efforts and results, and should not look to put the burden or blame for your successes, or shortcomings, on others.

"In the long run, you need to self-evaluate your own work and career. You may need to find recognition of achievements beyond the traditional rewards, such as salary increases, bonuses, and promotions, as these are often out of your control. Consider components of your employment such as:

• Performing work that you find interesting or worthwhile

• Taking on and overcoming challenges

• Having autonomy, if only over a portion of your job

• Developing new skills and deepening existing ones

• Doing work that gives you new insights into yourself, your organization or your industry

• Being recognized as an expert

• Having the trust of your colleagues and superiors

• Training others and sharing knowledge

• Seeing the positive impact of your work on customers, on other employees, or on society

"The success you have in these areas will eventually impact your overall career. A positive attitude toward your obligations is key to controlling your success."

Lynn J. Schwandt, CMP, Senior Event Planner, Event Planning and Recognition. Thrivent Financial For Lutherans

"You are not perfect and mistakes will happen…learn from them."

"It’s not all about the money; you work a long time, so pick a job that you love and can be happy doing."