We asked real-life seasoned professionals to spill secrets and offer up advice they would give to their younger job-seeking selves. Here’s a roundup of the best advice we compiled. Listen, learn, and take a page out of the playbook from these pros.

Expand your horizons

“Study overseas.” – Elsa Wong, via LinkedIn

“I would tell my younger self: Don’t be afraid to try anything outside of your comfort zone.” – Leana Nieto, via Twitter

“Intern and volunteer as much as possible. So many times I would be in an interview and no one would care about my MBA—they would ask about work experience and any internships that I held. Even if it’s part time, it shows that you went above and beyond and are willing to dedicate your time to a cause.” – Gene Caballero, co-founder of GreenPal, described as the Uber for Lawn Care

“Broaden your initial ideas of what career path you might take. With a solid education and a passion for pursuit, you’d be surprised at how many opportunities can present themselves in areas you wouldn’t have originally explored. Having your ‘dream job’ in mind is a great place to start, but don’t let it close your mind to exploring alternative paths, since those might eventually lead you right back to where you wanted to be.” – Brian Pickler, president of national furniture store chain Nadeau

Be more strategic in your job search

“Find a job with opportunities for advancement, tuition/training reimbursement for ongoing education, and a good retirement plan.” – Sue diRosario, director of philanthropy and community relations for Broadreach Family & Community Services

“Talk to more people. Informational interviews can be a treasure trove of insights into jobs you (think you) want and how to get them.” – Mashaal Ahmed, career coach and résumé writer

“Take an internship!” – Liza Robinson, via LinkedIn

“I’d suggest my younger self to keep a branding statement/elevator pitch ready—a statement that communicates my passion [and] the essence of who I am in my career can be a good ice breaker and an easy way to stand apart from the competition.” – Lauren Gibbson

“Jobs and job leads can come from anyone anywhere anytime so you should always be on your best behavior and make a great lasting impression…. Be nice to everyone and make friends before you need them; you never know who is in or will be in a position to help!” – Paige Arnof-Fenn, founder and CEO of marketing firm Mavens & Moguls

Do what you love

“I think I’d tell myself: You were right to make your career choices based on what you enjoy doing rather than what others consider prestigious, but don’t settle. If you ever get to a point where you’re not learning anything new, or it doesn’t look like you can advance to the next step on merit, move on without hesitation.” – James Rice, head of digital marketing, WikiJob

“My advice: Follow your productive passions. You have something you’re really good at and passionate about? Do that, and the career will follow. Don’t focus on the money.” – Daniel Mulec, data analyst employed by Globotech onsite at Apple Inc.

“I would advise myself to be honest and genuine—both with myself and others—about what inspires and motivates me as a professional. As a young job seeker, it can be easy to follow the ‘path of least resistance’ and ride out your first job to a managerial position without trying new things. But only by experimenting—and devoting a significant amount of time to introspection and self-reflection—can you effectively identify a career path that aligns with your passions.” – Sam McIntire, founder of Deskbright

Work hard and have confidence in yourself

“My advice would be to keep your head down, learn your craft, and work hard. Don’t always be the one to be seeking promotions right away, even if you think you’re deserving of it…. If you work for a good organization, you’ll get recognized for your work in due course.” – Daniel M. Lazarz, broker, Swett and Crawford

“Be patient. It takes time to establish yourself within a company. Work to learn the business, understand yourself and your strengths and weaknesses, and then focus on growth.” – Kristen Coppins, manager at Professional Staffing Group

“Don’t tell yourself ‘no’ when it comes to applying for promotions or a role just outside of your current expertise. That’s the hiring manager’s job.” – Uniqueka Jenkins, marketing coordinator at Brudis & Associates Inc.

This article originally appeared in the Advice & Resources section on CareerBuilder.com.