The Worst Career Advice You’ve Ever Heard (and What to Do Instead)

When it comes to career advice, everyone’s got an opinion—your friends, your family, even random people online. But have you ever stopped to think whether the advice you’re following is actually helpful? In today’s job market, a lot of old-school advice just doesn’t work anymore. So, let’s take a closer look at some of the worst career advice you’ve ever heard and, more importantly, what to do instead.

1. "Just Follow Your Passion"

Ah yes, the classic "follow your passion" mantra. It sounds great in theory, but in practice? Not so much. The problem with this advice is that it’s overly simplistic. Passion is important, but it’s not the only thing that matters. A fulfilling career happens when your passion intersects with your skills and the needs of the market. If you chase passion without considering these other factors, you could end up frustrated and stuck.

What to Do Instead: Instead of blindly following your passion, take a more strategic approach. Ask yourself: What am I good at? What excites me? Where can I add value in the job market? This way, you’re building a career that’s not only fulfilling but also sustainable in the long run.

2. "Never Quit Your Job Without Another Lined Up"

This advice is rooted in fear and caution. Sure, it might make sense in some cases, but if your current job is toxic or harming your mental health, staying might do more harm than good. A toxic job can chip away at your self-esteem, confidence, and overall well-being—sometimes, leaving is the best thing you can do for yourself.

What to Do Instead: If you’re in a job that’s damaging your mental health, it’s okay to step away—even if you don’t have something else lined up. Your well-being should always come first. Take time to heal and rebuild your confidence before diving into your next job search. Trust me, you’ll come back stronger and more prepared to land a role that excites you.

3. "Flip the 'Tell Me About Yourself' Question"

Here’s a personal pet peeve of mine: When candidates try to dodge the "Tell me about yourself" interview question by flipping it back on the interviewer. While this tactic may work in some cases, most of the time, it just comes across as dodging the question.

What to Do Instead: Treat the "Tell me about yourself" question as your chance to showcase who you are and what you bring to the table. Think of it as your elevator pitch—clear, concise, and focused on what’s relevant to the role you’re applying for. It’s your moment to shine, so own it!

Trust Your Intuition

At the end of the day, no one knows your career better than you. The next time someone gives you career advice, take a moment to reflect: Does this resonate with me? If it doesn’t, trust your gut and find what works best for you.

Looking for more career tips? Subscribe to my podcast Hire Me Pls for myth-busting episodes, debunking bad advice, and actionable steps to move your career forward with confidence. Don’t forget to download my free guide: The LinkedIn Launchpad Checklist to help you become a job magnet on LinkedIn!