Apr 18, 2017 10:01 AM EDT By Emily Marks, UniversityHerald Reporter

A lot of professionals want to get ahead in terms of their career. It is important for employees to be able to transform that motivation to actionable steps.

Students can start as early as during their college days. They can make the most of their breaks to work toward their career and academic goals.

One way is to join as many internship programs as they can. This provides them with professional experience which can help them get ahead when they apply for jobs.

Another is to use their summer break to study abroad. Traveling has also been reported to help develop open-mindedness and help develop one's communication skills. Summer courses are another way to make the most out of the break where they can learn extra skills.

CNBC noted that, professionals should not wait for the perfect job or opportunity before taking control of their career. The publication shared five strategies from experts that graduates can employ to help them succeed in their careers.

#1: Join in the favor economy

Leadership expert and best-selling author Suzy Welch has said that the favor economy can help professionals get ahead. This type of system is an invisible economy based on favors people do for each other. This means that helping others out is actually an investment in one's own career because one can turn to them later on when needed.

#2: Continue to improve

Professionals should keep moving forward, no matter how many achievements they have earned. Bill Belichick, head coach of the New England Patriots, advised to never rest on one's laurels.

#3: Don't be afraid to ask for help

Employees, especially those who are just starting out, should not be afraid to ask questions and assistance when they need it. This is one of the challenges that fresh graduates will encounter in the workplace.

#4: Take time to think decisions through

According to Alphabet's executive chairman Eric Schmidt, professionals should stop making short-term decisions. He recommends about putting decisions in a five-year context to make sure that the solution will be strategic.

#5: Invest in one's appearance.

In the work setting, it may be better to be over- than under-dressed for a job interview or an important meeting. Invest in staple items like a well-fitted blazer.

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