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African Women

10 things I wish I knew as a career starter

The lessons nobody hands you on your first day: about asking, negotiating, resting and backing yourself.

OFAW Team16 February 2025, 1 min read

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Your first job teaches you more than the job description ever promised. Here is what we wish someone had told us earlier.

1. Ask the question

The question you are afraid sounds silly is usually the one three other people are also wondering about.

2. Write down your wins

Keep a running list. When review time or your next application comes around, you will not have to remember.

3. Negotiate, even a little

Most first offers have room. Asking politely, with a reason, rarely costs you anything.

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