advice I wish I'd had way back when?

This week I have the pleasure of addressing a room full of 6th formers to give them advice on choosing a career in FMCG. Why would I want to do that? asked my young daughter. Right now that seems a pretty good question. But then I can cast my mind back to being 16 and not really having any idea of what was possible in a hugely competitive world, nor anybody to really give me advice apart from clean your shoes every day, never be late and work really hard. All good, but not inspiring really. I am also pretty sure suggesting reading Covey's "7 Habits of Highly Effective People" will result in yawns and mutterings, possibly. 

So after some thought I considered what would have been really good advice to me back then and presented my findings to my biggest critic (the afore mentioned teenage daughter)

1) Try and learn something new, everyday - It doesn't matter what it is, where you are. Whether learning to speak confidently to strangers whilst stacking shelves on your weekend job or reading a book on the bus, try and enrich yourself in some way. In will stand you in good stead  

2)Take any opportunity offered to you - Don't sit on the fence when being offered a role or a project or to lead a team. Grasp it with both hands and revert back to point 1

3) Seek forgiveness not permission - We become stronger and wiser through making the wrong decision. Don't be scared to take a risk, learn from the experience

4) Be memorable for the right reasons - especially at interview. Research your interviewer as much as the company and role. Seek advice from someone else as to the likely style of interview. So often I am met with glum faces and poor body language. Smile and be confident, I am looking for someone who will fit well within my organisation and am not expecting  the finished article.

Glancing up from her phone for 5 seconds "Mmm dad, that's pretty good advice. Make sure your shoes are clean and you don't swear" . I will do my best!