Soft skills matter. In fact, in today’s professional landscape—especially in technical trades—they’re more critical than ever.
Yet, one common challenge remains: many new professionals enter the workforce without strong soft skills, particularly in time management, networking, and industry awareness.
So, how can you change that? How can we change that?
The answer is simple—take on the 30-Day LinkedIn Challenge.
The Challenge
It only takes 10 minutes a day, and it checks three key boxes for career growth. Here’s how:
Step 1: Arrive 10 Minutes Early
Get to your destination 10 minutes before you need to. Every. Single. Day.
Step 2: Add Three New LinkedIn Connections
Use those 10 minutes to build your professional network:
- One person you know personally
- One person in your industry or the field you want to enter
- One person from a completely different industry
For example: If you’re a welding student, connect with your instructor, a local Miller welding rep, and—why not—someone like Warren Buffett.
This step takes less than three minutes but expands your network exponentially.
Step 3: Learn Something New
Use the remaining time to scroll your LinkedIn feed and absorb one piece of information relevant to your career.
That’s it. Simple, right? But the impact? Huge.
Why This Matters
The 30-Day LinkedIn Challenge tackles three key workplace gaps:
- Time Management & Punctuality – Being early sets you apart. It builds discipline. It shows initiative.
- Industry Awareness – Many new professionals enter the workforce with technical skills but little understanding of the broader industry.
- Professional Support Networks – Success isn’t just about what you know—it’s about who you know.
The Impact
By committing to this challenge, you will:
- Learn how to maximize small moments for growth
- Take ownership of your personal development
- Shift from just being a skilled tradesperson to becoming a student of your craft
- Develop the same networking advantages that professionals in other industries rely on daily
- Strengthen a continuous improvement mindset
Ready to Start?
If you’re serious about improving your professional outlook—whether in manufacturing, engineering, or any skilled trade—start with the 30-Day LinkedIn Challenge today.
Begin with these three connections:
- FlexTrades – Because we believe in workforce development.
- Mike Rowe & the MikeRoweWorks Foundation – Advocates for the skilled trades.
- Someone you know personally – Because relationships matter.
After 30 days, if you think this challenge was a waste of time, let us know. But we bet you’ll see the difference.
