Career advice: Top 5 ways for students and graduates to ensure career satisfaction

Working makes up a large part of adult life, so it's important to ensure you get the most out of your job role as possible

(Oli Scarff/Getty Images)

Life is about more than work – but work is a big part of it. You’ll spend a huge proportion of your time doing your job, so it makes sense to try to make it as enjoyable as possible.

Of course, this can be easier said than done. While the job market is changing, some companies remain stuck in the past. Here, Simply Business has compiled a list of top tips to help you get the most out of your work – and to help you kick-start a fulfilling career:

1) Don’t be afraid to take a holiday

It can be tempting to avoid taking all your annual leave. Many graduate employees presume they will be thought of more favourably if they work year round. However, this isn’t generally the case.

Your employer wants to know that you’re at the top of your game – and this means taking time off. Make sure you seize the opportunity to take a holiday, and that you switch off while you’re away, so that means no emails and no frantic office phone calls.

2) Revel in organised fun

Think office outings aren’t for you? Think again. They may seem cheesy, but organised social events are a great way to build better relationships with your co-workers – and to make the most of your time at work.

By diving headfirst into the workplace social calendar, you can help to ensure you become firm friends with your colleagues. Your social life will benefit – but so too will your work.

3) Embrace challenge

You might have had it drilled into you that university will be the most challenging period of your life but, in fact, the world of work brings its own unique trials.

If you’re to have a really fulfilling career, you need to make sure you’re not afraid of hunkering down and facing those trials head on. Challenge is what makes work fun, and succeeding in those challenges is what will set you apart from your colleagues.

4) Remember health and wellbeing

There’s an increased focus on employee wellbeing in many businesses, and this is wholeheartedly positive. In order to perform to the best of your abilities, you need to look after yourself. This means, wherever possible, leaving work at work, and remembering that there is a life outside the office.

You also shouldn’t be afraid to tell your managers when things get too much – workplace stress is a common affliction, and they should be able to help you manage it if the going gets tough.

5) Work with like-minded people

Finally, if you’re in the lucky position of being able to choose where you work, you should think, not only about the pay packet and benefits, but also about the people you spend your day with.

In order to get the most out of work, you need to be surrounded by people who are as driven and dedicated as you are. Think about the office culture: do your prospective colleagues seem motivated by their work? Are they the sort of people you want to be around? By choosing the working company you keep, you can help to make sure you make the most of your day-to-day working life.

Twitter: @jessikins86