From Campus to Corner Office: 7 Career Moves Every 20-Something Should Make Now

So, you’ve got the degree (or you’re on your way), a LinkedIn profile, and maybe even a shiny new job title. But let me let you in on a little secret: those wins are just the start.

If your goal is to secure the bag and the seat at the table— we’re talking six-figure salary, impact, and influence, then, you need a game plan. You need not just a job but a strategy.

Here are seven career moves every 20-something should be making right now to turn early potential into long-term power moves:

1) Build a Board of You, Inc.

You need mentors like corporations need a board of directors.

Start curating your “personal board”, composed of people who will hold you accountable, push you, connect you, and vouch for you in rooms you're not in yet.

Pro Tip: Find a mentor in your dream role, one in a totally different industry, and one who tells you the truth even when it stings.

2) Master Your LinkedIn Game Today, Not Tomorrow

LinkedIn is no longer optional. It's your digital résumé, portfolio, and elevator pitch all in one.

Don’t just scroll— shine.

Share your wins. Post your passions. Comment with insight. Let recruiters know you exist.

Add a clean headshot, headline with purpose, and a killer “About” section that says who you are and what you’re ready to do.

3) Don’t Just Network— Net-Worth

You know how they say your network is your net worth? That’s real.

But here's the twist: the key is to give more than you take.

Comment on someone’s work. Send a “thank you” message. Recommend a resource. Follow up.

Relationships are the new résumés. Treat them like currency.

4) Turn Internships Into Income

Every internship should come with two exit strategies: a job offer or a powerful reference.

Don’t clock in and check out. Treat it like a 90-day audition.

Ask for feedback. Take on stretch projects. Show initiative before they ask.

Employers remember impact. Make yours undeniable.

5) Learn to Sell Yourself Without Selling Out

Whether it’s a job interview, a pitch, or your bio, you’ve got to own your story.

Talk about your value with confidence, not apology.

Highlight your wins. Own your identity. And never downplay your potential to “fit in”.

You belong in every room your ambition walks into.

6) Use AI as Your Assistant, Not Your Replacement

AI isn’t the enemy— it’s your new career cheat code.

Use AI to revamp your résumé, prep for interviews, or generate a killer cover letter.

But don’t let it write your story for you.

Tech is powerful. But your voice, your hustle, and your story are irreplaceable.

7) Invest in Yourself Early, Not Just Financially

Read books. Take free courses. Hire a coach. Go to networking events.

Say yes to growth, even if it’s outside your comfort zone.

Every dollar, hour, or connection you invest in yourself will pay dividends.

Growth is uncomfortable, but stagnation costs more.

Final Word

You’re not just looking for a job— you’re building a career, a legacy, and a life that feels aligned, impactful, and financially secure.

These seven moves are how you start writing that story today.

And if nobody told you this yet: you’re not behind. You’re just getting started, and the corner office isn’t as far away as it seems when you make strategic moves now.

Let’s keep the conversation going. Drop your top career move so far in the comments or share this to someone who needs to hear the message!