Currently, I have a lot of friends who are working at jobs that they never intended to have out of college. They believed that their college degrees would carry them to a corporate job right after final exams. While that may be true for some, not everyone was as fortunate.

However, just because you’re not sitting in a fancy office in front of your dual-computer setup, that doesn’t mean you can’t make the most of the job you have right now. Leveraging your current occupation could be just what you need to spring you into the career you desire.

Be the best at your job.
It’s actually very challenging to put your all into a job you don’t even want to be at. However, you’re going to have to channel your motivation into your current job. Not because this is the job you want to do for the rest of your life but because you want to prove to yourself that you’re capable of doing any job, high or low. And the best professionals know how to work at all levels to get the job done. Once you understand that, then your boss will understand you more as an employee, increasing your chances of a promotion.

Look for leadership opportunities.
Speaking of promotion, look for ways to lead projects or events. Volunteer for special activities. Be proactive. Help your fellow coworkers when you can. And don’t be afraid to speak up in company meetings when your managers ask for ways to improve the workplace.

Find ways to implement your skills.
What I mean by this is, find a way to use what college taught you in your current job. For example, let’s say you majored in graphic design in college. And your boss mentions that the store need fliers to promote an upcoming sale. Offer your skills and give your boss samples of your work. You never know what this might start. Not only will you save your boss the time and money, but you can begin building your career BEFORE you get the job you want. More experience is better experience.

Never forget the big picture.
If you find yourself lacking inspiration, always remember that there is a lot of life ahead of you. Your current job is not permanent, and only you are in charge of your destiny. This job is only a stepping stone to where you eventually want to be, but it’s up to you to get there.

Do you have any other advice for those who are stuck in a job they don’t want? Leave them in the comment section below.

Thanks for reading!