NETWORK

Launching your career to a new level usually entails someone opening a door for you. They don't necessarily need to be the person who hires you. They can make the introduction, recommend you, or connect you with the hiring manager.

You will meet people at school, work, conferences, trips, events, etc. You're always one or two conversations away from a job you really want.

Knowing the right people can let you know about job openings before they are made public and sometimes even bypass a portion of the hiring process.

If someone on the team you want to join will vouch for you, that will hold weight during the interview process. It doesn't guarantee you the job, but it definitely increases your chances.