Life After Landing Your Dream Job

Smiling young professional businessman. Photo courtesy of Shutterstock.

Whether it was years of hard work and study that brought you to this point or just a matter of being in the right place at the right time, your dream job has become a reality. Along with the opportunity to use newly learned skills comes a bigger paycheck, more responsibility and greater job security. It’s the culmination of your life’s work and now you have it. But what comes next?

Responsibility

A position of this nature always comes with a strong emphasis on responsibility. This means being where you’re required to be, when you’re supposed to be there — no more call-outs, no-shows or coming in late. You’re playing with the big dogs now and your behavior should reflect it.

Dedication

If you thought landing that corner office meant you could finally kick back and relax a bit, you’re probably in for a huge surprise. Expect a promotion of this sort to come hand-in-hand with extended hours and open-ended work days. Your nine-to-five stints have likely come to a screeching halt, along with your money troubles. Make sure your family is on board with missed dinners and weekends away before you accept the position.

Maturity

You may be tempted to run right out and buy the dream car to go hand-in-hand with the new dream job, but that’s the hot rod teenager inside you talking. You’re a mature adult now, with mature responsibilities and your actions should reflect it. Make your decisions carefully, especially where money is involved. A new Porsche would be nice, but not very practical. Opt for a used one instead. Thousands of deals exist online to help you find an affordable, attractive car befitting your new position. Follow the instructions to click here on your favorite used car site and stash the money you’ll save in the bank instead of into inflated payments on a car that screams “I’m immature!”

Investment Decisions

More money means more decisions. Where should you put it? How best will it work for you? Do yourself a favor and don’t procrastinate over deciding where your money should go. Make an appointment with a reputable financial advisor right away. This is the person who can best advise you which stocks or properties to buy and exactly how to divide your interests so they bring you the most return. Educate yourself in your spare time and learn how to monitor your portfolio. While it’s a good idea to have someone at the helm who knows exactly what to do, it’s always smart to know what’s going on around you — especially when it’s your financial future at stake.

Networking

It’s hard to get anywhere these days without utilizing your networking skills. This means attending holiday parties, business lunches and more that can potentially bring you into closer contact with the powers that be. Make sure your social network profiles are up to date with your newest skills and use extreme caution when posting anything online. You’re not representing a college frat house anymore, so nix the pics of your old drinking days and keep your clothes on. Your boss will thank you for it later.

By Sandra Mason

Sandy is a financial counselor raising three girls in the South.