I’ve found the best advice comes from the people who work and live around you every day. I like to call these “hand me downs” — they’re tidbits of knowledge I’ve come across from a boss, teacher or mentor, and they really do work. They may seem simple, redundant or arbitrary, but they really can be the push that turns into a shove.

The handshake

When I first met my boss, he shook my hand. As I let go, he grabbed my hand again and said, “Kavi, firm grasp and strong shake — look me straight in the eyes.” He said that a handshake is an important and deciding factor for some employers when hiring. Your handshake can say so much about your personality and it exudes confidence … just don’t break the person’s hand.

The resumé

The one thing I was always told about writing a resumé was keep it to one page. Keep it short and keep it simple, stupid. Say what you have to say as concisely and precisely as you can — this sharp attention to detail will reflect on you and it saves time for whomever is hiring you.

Forget about embellishing on a point that doesn’t matter to your interviewer and stick to the points they would care about. I was shocked when I was told to forget everything I was taught about resumé writing, and that it didn’t matter — keep it short and impress eloquently. Apparently my time as an assistant financial advisor meant nothing to the advertising crowd. I axed it and it worked.

Do it once and do it right

Speaks for itself, really. Pour your heart and soul into whatever you’re working on. Minimize on mistakes and revisions. Don’t go around touting that you’re a perfectionist, just get it done right — other people will do the touting for you.

Help out — just don’t do their job

Always lend a helping hand to whomever you can in the workplace. Show them the ropes and guide them through a process they don’t understand. This is a great way to show initiative and leadership. Be careful how far you go, though. Helping out is one thing, but if that person is dumping their tasks on you, then there’s a problem. If you find yourself doing another person’s job, it’s probably time to raise the issue. Don’t complain or whine, simply point out the problem in a polite, professional manner.

Solve your quarrels

It’s understandable that heads will butt when working in a group or team environment. Dragging out a disagreement can reflect poorly on skills, personality and efficiency to get the job done. Take it outside and talk it out. There’s nothing that can’t be solved. Refrain from gossipping and, instead, tell it like it is in the most professional manner. If you’re wrong, accept it. If you’re right, don’t gloat.