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The Ultimate Guide to Securing That Promotion (and Pay Raise)

Plus: Don't Skip Lunch & Secondhand Phones

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Score That Promotion!

Unlock your potential and secure that raise! 💪

Landing your first job is just the start of your career journey. If you want a promotion or pay raise, it’s time to take a proactive approach. Here’s how you can take charge and make your aspirations a reality.

  • Know Your Company Goals: Don’t just clock in and out; dive into your company’s mission and objectives. Understand what your organization is striving for and how your role contributes to that vision. Chat with your manager about their priorities and figure out how you can help achieve them. When you align your efforts with the company’s goals, you’ll stand out as a dedicated employee.

  • Track Your Achievements: Keep a record of your successes, just like a sports fan tracks game stats. Document your projects, positive feedback, and any measurable outcomes you’ve achieved. When performance reviews roll around or you have discussions about your future, having concrete evidence of your contributions will make it easier for you to advocate for that raise or promotion.

  • Build Your Network: Don’t underestimate the power of connections. Get to know your colleagues and superiors on a personal level — grab coffee, join team outings, or participate in company events. Seek out mentors who can provide guidance and support. These relationships can open doors and provide valuable insights when you're ready to push for that next step.

Securing a promotion or pay raise isn’t just about doing your job well, it’s about taking action and positioning yourself for success. If you understand your company’s goals, track your achievements, and build a supportive network, you’ll be well on your way to turning your career dreams into reality.

Hungry for a Break?

Gen Z workers are skipping lunch out of guilt. 😟

They’re feeling hungry!

As many young professionals step into the workforce, a large number are skipping lunch more often than not. According to ezCater's 2024 Lunch Report, nearly 47% of Gen Z employees miss lunch two or more times a week, even though half of them consider it the best part of their day. This guilt originates from the pandemic, when remote work blurred the lines between personal time and job responsibilities, as reported by the NY Post.

Experts emphasize that taking breaks is essential for overall well-being. Regular pauses can alleviate stress and enhance productivity, yet only 38% of employees actually take a break for lunch. Many feel overwhelmed by their workloads or caught in endless meetings, making it difficult to prioritize a midday meal.

The report suggest that employers can drive change by fostering a culture of breaks, and offering free lunches could significantly boost morale and engagement. Notably, 58% of hybrid workers indicated they would be more likely to work in the office if free food was provided.

It seems that encouraging lunch breaks can truly make a difference. After all, a little food and relaxation can greatly enhance individual happiness and focus in the workplace.

Refurbished Phones 🔥🔥🔥

Refurbished phones offer budget-friendly tech solutions. 📱

The excitement around new iPhone releases isn’t what it used to be.

With the iPhone 16 launch, sales were down nearly 13% compared to last year’s model, and it seems like the days of big, exciting tech rollouts are behind us, according to reporting by Business Insider.

At the same time, more people are turning to refurbished phones. Apple has become a leader in this growing market, with many younger buyers choosing to save money and go green by opting for refurbished models that still offer solid features.

Companies like Back Market are also taking advantage of this trend, marketing refurbished tech to consumers who care more about value than having the newest model.

However, challenges persist, especially as manufacturers work to make repairs for old phones more complicated. As regulations evolve to address these issues, try to take advantage of refurbished technology and tap into a growing market that aligns with both budget and sustainability goals.

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