Working on projects as an intern or an unpaid volunteer provides us with the hands-on knowledge we need to jumpstart our careers.

Volunteering for projects provides us with new opportunities to learn and grow, while building our network.

Do a self-evaluation or a SWOT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats) analysis to identify your core areas where you can contribute and add value.

Get to know what you are good at so that you can work on harnessing those skills and fast-track your growth.

If you are able to deliver on time, and establish a reputation of a worker who is able to communicate and follow up well, you will be seen as a reliable, dedicated employee who does not leave an assignment hanging or unconcluded.

Building a deep and diverse network of trusted colleagues, along with the college alumni is a time-tested method to get mentoring, advice, feedback and even work.

Your initial contacts are your critical advocates and as you move in your job, you should actively identify and connect with peers and superiors that you admire, to build up your network. One also needs to demonstrate your expertise, motivation and commitment to build a ‘fan following’.