Those TikTok gurus and career advice

I can’t help but cringe whenever I see so-called “TikTok gurus” offering career advice that’s nothing more than recycled content from foreign videos – misguided, impractical, and sometimes outright harmful to those naïve enough to believe it.

Take this gem of advice, for example:

Manifest your dream job. Just visualize yourself in that executive office, and the universe will handle the rest. There is no need for experience, networking, or even applying. Just manifest it! (Good luck explaining that to HR.)

Quit your job with no backup plan – success will follow! Who needs financial security when you can go viral ranting about unemployment?

You don’t need to work hard – just fake productivity! Open 20 tabs on your screen, type furiously, and sigh dramatically so your boss thinks you’re swamped. Bonus points if you schedule fake Zoom meetings to take a nap.

And if that’s not bad enough, here is one of the most ridiculous TikTok career tips that makes you shake your head in disbelief:

Work in a company for a maximum of two years. Then quit. Apply for another job with higher pay. Stay for two years, quit again, and repeat. That’s how you get ahead in life.

Really? So, after years of job-hopping, what exactly has this person gained? Any meaningful competence, expertise, or leadership skills? Or just the ability to submit job applications at record speed? This is not a career strategy – it’s a revolving door to mediocrity.

Finding a company where you feel valued and engaged is a career milestone. But once you’ve landed in the right place, the next challenge is growth – how do you advance while staying in an environment you enjoy? Instead of looking outside, consider the strategic advantages of building your career within your current organization.

Staying with a company you already know and appreciate can be a strategic advantage. You’re familiar with its culture, systems, and expectations, and you’ve built relationships that can support your professional growth. Many organizations also recognize and reward loyalty, offering long-term opportunities to those who invest in their success. And let’s be honest – why dive into the uncertainty of a competitive job market when you can create meaningful opportunities right where you are?

So, how do you advance in your career without constantly hopping from one company to another, as some TikTok “career coaches” suggest?

Take on impactful projects. If you want to stand out, focus on projects that make a real difference. Volunteer for cross-functional initiatives, propose innovative solutions, or lead efforts that showcase your leadership potential. The goal isn’t just to do more work – it’s to create strategic value. Taking the initiative on high-profile projects positions you as someone with ambition, creativity and influence, making you a natural candidate for growth within the organization.

Build your internal network. Relationships shape careers. The more leaders and colleagues know about your strengths and aspirations, the better your chances of being considered for new roles. Attend company events, engage in leadership forums, or participate in corporate initiatives. If there’s a leader you admire, find a way to connect – whether by joining their team’s projects or setting up a casual meeting to exchange insights.

Build your equity – build your brand. Advancing within your company means making sure decision-makers recognize your potential. Prepare a compelling pitch articulating what you bring and where you want to grow. Keep your résumé updated and tailored for internal opportunities. If you get the chance to meet a key leader, go in prepared – speak with clarity, confidence, and enthusiasm about your aspirations. And always follow up with a thank-you note – it leaves a lasting impression.

Don’t let your boss hold you back. A supportive boss can be a great asset, but a possessive one can hinder your progress. Some managers resist letting their best employees move on because they don’t want to lose a valuable contributor. If you find yourself in that situation, navigate it with tact. Strengthen your network outside of your immediate team and build relationships with other leaders who can advocate for your growth.

Stay positive and professional. When exploring new opportunities within your company, keep the conversation positive. Avoid complaining about your current role or manager – doing so can make you seem difficult to work with. Instead, highlight what you’ve learned, your contributions, and your enthusiasm for the next challenge. A forward-looking mindset makes you an attractive candidate for promotion.

Career growth doesn’t always mean changing companies. Sometimes, the best opportunities are right where you are. By taking initiative, strengthening your network, and positioning yourself for leadership, you can build a thriving career within the company you already love.

The next time you scroll through your TikTok feed, just concentrate on the dances and skip the career advice portions – except mine.

Unlock your potential and propel your career forward at Level Up Leadership – The Excellence Advantage workshop seminar on April 8, 2025, at Rockwell Club, Makati. Reserve your seat now! Contact April at 0928-559-1798 or Savee at 0917-533-6817. Visit www.levelupleadership.ph for details. Limited seats available!