In an interview, be the star of your own show. When describing projects you worked on as part of a team, focus on your unique contributions. It's fine to occasionally mention what "we" or "our team" did, but if you don't point out your specific abilities, the hiring committee will have no idea what you have to offer. While it's great to highlight that you're a team player, being too modest and not taking credit for what you've accomplished won't score you any points.

Many of us feel pressured to perform when we start a new job. But with so many new tasks to learn, you're bound to get stuck along the way. Rather than fiddling around and seeing if you can find answers on your own, just ask for help. By asking lots of questions, you can gather information quickly and avoid having to start over because you got it wrong. Keep notes as you're being trained, start off slow and you’ll get to the top of the class in no time.

You don't need to be a modern-day Picasso to boast an excellent portfolio. These days, anyone can have one. To build a portfolio, collect certificates, positive feedback, samples or photographs of your work, letters of recommendation, awards and any other materials that will show you off. Don't wait until you're job hunting to create one -- start today. That way, you'll have things ready when you need them. With a record of your accomplishments in hand, you'll have something concrete to show on your next job hunt.

In the age of astronomical education costs, learning for free is a real score. But how many workers take advantage of workplace professional development? Be it an Excel tutorial, a lunch 'n learn or an off-site seminar, these sessions are perks that you should cash into. Not only will you learn something new, you may even be able to beef up your resumé with additional skills and credentials. Taking part in professional development also shows that you're motivated to learn and improve yourself -- a real attribute for someone who's looking to move up the ladder.

After handing in your resignation, you'd planned to ride off into the sunset. Instead, you've been invited to an exit interview. How do you handle this potentially sticky situation? Be prepared to answer questions about your overall job satisfaction and reasons for leaving. While you may have a list of gripes to get off your chest, always maintain a professional demeanor. It's fine to air your grievances but don’t get nasty. The best news of all: exit interviews are voluntary. If you don't feel like participating, you can decline. Talk about an easy exit!

We may live in a culture that idolizes youth but, in the work world, older employees have unparalleled value. If you're a seasoned worker applying for a job or eyeing a promotion, don't get intimidated by the younger competition. While the young'uns may be on top of the latest technology, you've got wisdom acquired through years of experience. Play up the soft skills you've refined over the years -- negotiation, teamwork, leadership -- and emphasize your interest in keeping up with new trends. That way, you can show them that you're solid gold.

We all like to get our own way, but when you're working as part of a team, compromise is the name of the game. Fighting over small details or making a big fuss just to save face is unproductive. While you may like your idea best, knowing when to back down and let your co-workers win the battle can spare you unnecessary headaches. Keep cool and remember that you can't win every time.

You've got your eye on your dream job ... you're just not sure whether it's really as great as it seems from the outside. How do you find out? Schedule an information interview. By speaking with someone who does the job, you can ask questions, find out how to get your foot in the door and network, all in one shot. Remember to come prepared with a list of specific questions, keep the interview short (30 minutes or less) and be professional. Maybe you won't have to take that leap of faith after all.

Are you being asked to do something unsafe at work? Guess what? You can always say no. The Workplace Safety and Insurance Board advises you to report hazardous conditions and avoid taking risks on the job. That includes refusing work that you feel is unsafe. When performing potentially dangerous tasks, take all necessary precautions -- wear a hardhat, put on those steel toe boots, bend your legs before heavy lifting, and remember to wear sunscreen when working outdoors. Doing your job shouldn't be a risky business.

Even though we all know that our work-assigned email addresses are supposed to be used for business purposes only, it's not uncommon for personal emails about cute cats to make the rounds. While you may think that your inbox is private, you should never write anything that you'd be embarrassed to discuss with everyone at work, including your boss. Most companies retain the right to read employees' emails if they wish -- so keep those messages clean and avoid landing yourself in a sticky situation.