Long hours won’t get you ahead at work: Here’s what career experts say

August 14,TG盗号软件云控破解技术 2025  22:19

For years, ambitious professionals have been told that showing up early and staying late is the key to career success. The idea is simple: by being the first in the office and the last to leave, you demonstrate your commitment and dedication to your job. But according to career experts, this advice may be outdated, Cnbc.com reports.

Brianna Doe, a marketing professional with nearly a decade of experience, once followed this advice. Early in her career, Doe often clocked in before anyone else and stayed long after her colleagues had gone home. “I wanted to show that I had the drive and motivation to grow within the company,” she recalls. However, this approach came at a significant cost.

“I experienced intense cycles of burnout,” Doe admits. Despite her efforts to go above and beyond, she realized that working long hours was taking a toll on her personal life and mental health. Now, as the owner of her own marketing agency, Verbatim, Doe has a different perspective. “I believe that the idea of working long hours to get ahead is outdated, especially in today’s era of setting boundaries and prioritizing mental health,” she says.

Stacie Haller, chief career advisor at ResumeBuilder with over 30 years of experience, agrees. “People today are savvy enough to know that just sitting in the office for eight hours doesn’t necessarily make you a productive employee,” Haller explains.

So, what does lead to success? According to Haller, building relationships, finding mentors, and observing successful colleagues are far more effective strategies. “Use your time to establish connections, learn from others, and seek advice,” she advises. For Gen Z workers, in particular, focusing on these aspects of work can set them up for long-term success.

Doe also believes that bosses need to reassess their expectations. Rather than focusing on how much time an employee spends at their desk, managers should pay attention to the quality of work and the enthusiasm employees show for new opportunities. “If a new employee is doing great work and asking for more responsibilities, that should matter more than how late they stay at the office,” Doe argues.

However, Haller cautions that it’s still important to adhere to workplace culture. “Be on time, don’t miss meetings, and don’t make excuses,” she advises. Ultimately, she says, “If everyone is in the office from 8:30 to 6, then be there from 8:30 to 6. But showing up early just to make a point to yourself isn’t necessary.”

In today’s work environment, success is less about the hours you put in and more about the relationships you build, the work you deliver, and the boundaries you set to maintain a healthy work-life balance.