Unlock Success: 14 Timeless Career Tips from Top Business Leaders

The lessons we carry from early in our careers often shape how we lead, create and collaborate in the present. Whether it was advice about trusting your instincts, staying true to your voice or learning from failure, the right words at the right time can echo for decades.

Below, members of Rolling Stone Culture Council share the formative advice they received early on and how it continues to influence their work and perspectives today. Read on for their inspiring insights that you can take into your own professional journey.

Fake It ‘Til You Make It

One piece of advice that I learned early on in my professional career was to “fake it ’til you make it,” meaning to always appear confident and in control of the unknown while maintaining a growth mindset. You learn to fill those knowledge gaps to overcome feelings of inadequacy and you become a better leader in the process. – Ashley Deese, Naturalist’s Guide

Start Building the Path to the Life You Want Today

Picture yourself at 80, looking back on your life. What will you wish you had done? Start building the path to that life today — before the window closes. – Angelique Kuiper, Resonance

Be Persistent and Push On

A key piece of advice centers around persistence. Knowing that there will be people along the way that steal your ideas, claim credit, “throw shade,” sideline or even try to silence you, one acronym helps me persist: FIPO, which stands for “f*** it and push on.” I’ve used this little saying throughout the years to keep moving forward because I’m on a mission to change the climate of entertainment. – Zena Harris, Green Spark Group

Focus on Your Key Message

You may have a story to tell with lots of details, but focus on the key message. If your audience can only remember one key message, what message do you want them to remember? Expand that to three key points or words, and don’t expect your audience to retain more than that. Build your communications and presentations around that messaging. – Brian Framson, Citrus America Inc.

How It Starts Is How It Goes

This early advice taught me to trust my instincts, because first impressions are usually right. Today, I use it to evaluate partnerships, hires and deals. If something feels off early, I don’t wait for more data to confirm it — I act. It’s saved me time, money and heartache more times than I can count. – Jessica Billingsley, Sona Capital

Embrace Curiosity and Admit Ignorance

Early on, I was advised to “embrace curiosity and never fear admitting ignorance.” This has shaped me profoundly, fostering a mindset of continuous learning. In my current role as a photographer and digital media creator, it drives me to explore new ideas and technologies, ensuring the solutions I offer stay innovative and effective. It also keeps me adaptable, which is vital for tackling evolving challenges. – Mark Paulda, Mark Paulda & Co

Never Be the Smartest Person in the Room

Always focus on continuous learning. Never be the smartest person in the room. Whether it’s refining technical skills, staying updated on industry trends or learning from colleagues and mentors, the idea that growth comes from a mindset of curiosity has had a lasting impact for me. It’s helped me adapt, stay relevant and embrace challenges as opportunities for development. Knowledge is power. – Josiah Corbin, Elite Multimedia Productions

Be True to Yourself

“Be yourself” or “Be true to yourself” was the advice my mother always gave me growing up, and looking back, I can honestly say it’s the best guidance anyone could offer. In my own journey, I’ve learned that authenticity is key — whether it’s in business, branding, entertainment or simply in life. Staying true to who you are makes all the difference. – Karina Michel Feld, Tallulah Films

Keep Showing Up

Talent’s great, but persistence is what separates people in this industry. That mindset still drives everything I do — especially when things get tough. You keep pushing, keep evolving, and the momentum builds. – Shaun Fabos, Fab Factory Studios

Those Who Think They Can Change the World, Do

Steve Jobs’ words — “The people who are crazy enough to think they can change the world are the ones who do” — inspired me to take roads less traveled, especially as a woman. It was lonely and uncertain, but I led with purpose and fearless imagination. Today, I believe the most powerful art doesn’t seek acceptance — it invites transformation. – Victoria Bousis, UME Studios

Let Your Customers Help You Find Your Way

“Develop your concept 60 percent and let the customer help you determine the next 40 percent.” This advice from an early mentor helped me realize that although I had a strong conviction for what I wanted our winery to be, it was important to allow the guests to help us find our way. This still plays a big role in what we do and forces us to keep our ears open and be humble enough to pivot when needed. – Michael Kennedy, Component Wine Company

You Can’t Be Everything to Everyone

“If you try to be everything to everyone or serve every market, you become nothing to anyone.” Early on, I was tempted to chase every opportunity and speak to every audience, but once I got laser-focused on who I serve and why, everything changed. That clarity still drives how I position Marquet Media, lead my team and show up in my personal brand. – Kristin Marquet, Marquet Media, LLC

Caring Creates Credibility

“No one cares how much you know until they know how much you care.” The world is already full of experts (both real and fictional); the world is not full of people who care about others and take the time to communicate that care in meaningful ways. When people know you care, you gain a unique credibility — and credibility opens doors that few other things can. – Jed Brewer, Good Loud Media

Keep Going

I received the best piece of advice three times within a 60-day period as I approached the three-year anniversary of my company: “Keep going.” Now, as Headline Booking approaches our 14th anniversary, I am proud to say that “keep going” is something that stays with me and that I call upon for reinforcement in all we do as an organization. – Matt Altman, Headline Booking