Over the years, people have often asked me for career advice. They’re usually hoping for something big: a breakthrough idea, a bold move, or a dramatic pivot that changes everything overnight.  This really isn’t what happens in real life.

What I’ve learned instead is this: most careers aren’t shaped by grand gestures. They’re shaped by small, repeatable habits, or career “hacks,” if you will, that anyone can practice, regardless of title, industry, or season of life.

Here are ten that have served me well, along with a few I’ve learned the hard way.

1. Never bring a problem without offering a solution

Early in my career, I learned that identifying problems is easy. Rarely can you differentiate yourself by pointing out errors.  The real leaders are the ones who solve them.  When you bring a solution, even an imperfect one, you signal ownership, judgment, and maturity.

Try this: The next time you spot an issue, ask yourself, “What would I do if this were my responsibility?” Then lead with that.

2. Give more value than what you are paid for

This isn’t about working yourself into the ground. It’s about mindset. People who consistently add value beyond their job description tend to grow beyond it as well. They are highly thought of by co-workers, they tend to get favorable performance reviews, and ultimately they are the ones who get promoted.  They are also happier in life, by the way.

Try this: Look for one small way each week to help your team succeed that isn’t technically “your job.”

3. Initiate positive change whenever you can

Some people wait for permission. Others quietly improve things as they go. The second group almost always are the ones who make a difference in the world.

Try this: Fix the broken process. Simplify the meeting. Improve the document. Small changes compound. There are unlimited opportunities to demonstrate this in the workplace.

4. Be known for reliability, not just talent

Talent gets attention. Reliability earns trust.
The most valuable people are the ones others don’t worry about.

Try this: Treat every commitment—large or small—as a promise.

5. Learn how your boss is measured

If you want to advance, understand what success looks like for the person you work for. When they win, you win.  Want to go even further?  Learn your company’s strategy inside and out, tap into what the company is trying to create, and then help accelerate progress toward the strategic objectives.  It may be difficult to do, but it will be rewarding.

Try this: Ask your boss, “What matters most to you this year?” Then align your efforts accordingly.

6. Stay calm when things get tense

Pressure reveals leadership. The person who remains steady in difficult moments stands out quickly.  Emotionally mature people don’t run from conflict, they help resolve it.  Be the person who can resolve sparky issues in your workplace.

Try this: Slow down your response. Focus on facts. Keep emotion from driving decisions.

7. Write things down

Clear writing reflects clear thinking. People who summarize, clarify, and document often become quiet leaders.  They manage expectations better when they communicate better.

Try this: After meetings, send a brief recap: decisions made, next steps, and owners.

8. Ask better questions than everyone else

You don’t need to have all the answers. You need to ask thoughtful questions that move the conversation forward.  One of the hardest challenges of most workplaces is identifying the issues that are not being address, things that are being avoided, and shining a light on things that matter.

Try this: Replace statements with curiosity: “What problem are we really solving?”

9. Build relationships before you need them

Careers are built on trust. Trust is built long before it’s required. I recommend starting from a point of giving respect and trust to your colleagues until they prove otherwise.  Seek deep and meaningful, trusting relationships.

Try this: Have occasional coffee conversations with no agenda—just genuine interest.

10. Invest in skills that travel

Titles change. Companies change. Core skills endure: communication, judgment, problem-solving, leadership.

Try this: Spend 15 minutes a day learning something that strengthens who you are, not just what you do.

Most careers don’t turn on a single defining moment. They turn on dozens of small choices made consistently over time. None of these ideas require a promotion, permission, or perfect timing. They only require intention.

And as with most things worth doing, the real magic isn’t in knowing these career hacks. It’s in practicing them.

Tony Thelen is an executive coach and founder of The River Coaching & Consulting, LLC, based in West Okoboji, Iowa. He writes The River, a weekly column focused on leadership, purpose, and living a well-designed life. Tony is also the author of Things We Desire, available on Amazon and through major book retailers. For signed or personalized copies, or to learn more about coaching and speaking engagements, contact him at [email protected].