After having a number of jobs with little-to-no direct link to the profession I'm pursuing, I’ve learned there are no pointless work experiences. From being a camp counselor surrounded by 20 second-graders for an entire summer, to working as a server at a retirement home, I’m constantly surprised by the applicability of the skills and lessons I learn.

Here's a list of five professional skills I believe you can enhance at every work experience if you look for the opportunity to do so.

1. Leadership

You don't have to possess a leadership title to cultivate and practice leadership skills. In fact, you can learn a lot by observing those in authority, both good and bad. Additionally, never underestimate the influence of silent leadership. Your ability to take initiative and go above and beyond what's required of you without having to be told is something you can do at any job, at any level. Treating others with respect, always being ready to lend a helping hand, and maintaining the mindset that no task is below you is integral to climbing the professional ladder.

2. Communication

Every profession out there requires communication with others at some level, and those who communicate better are more likely to excel in their field. Interestingly, my jobs as a camp counselor and retirement home server have been two of the most beneficial experiences in improving my ability to communicate effectively with people of all ages and capabilities.

3. Time management

Whether you're closely supervised or given autonomy at your job, there's always a way to practice managing your time. This process can start before you even show up. Why not shoot for being 10 minutes early instead of clocking in on-the-dot? It might sound silly, but even small things, such as being contentious of leaving and returning on time from your breaks can make an impression on those you work with and for.

4. Prioritization

Being able to take a list of tasks and accomplish it in the most efficient, logical order without being told how is a skill that is extremely advantageous, especially if you're going into a fast-paced profession. Practicing this in the small areas will prepare you for when you're given larger responsibilities that require prioritization. I've learned this skill best working as a student employee at my university's library. When I clock in, multiple things need to be accomplished, usually too much for one shift, and no one is there to tell me what needs to be done first. So, it's up to me to decide what I do and in what order I get it done.

5. Failure

From overcharging a customer for birdseed to forgetting to file an incident report for a camper who got hit in the face by a rock during a moment of total chaos, failure happens. As your responsibilities increase, so do the consequences of failure. Use these low-stake situations to learn how to fail with grace, stay humble, and improve your capabilities.

Mastering these five skills before you enter the professional world will set you apart and give you an advantage over much of the competition. So, next time you show up to that job you hate and feel has no purpose for your future, rethink your mindset, and remember that so much of what we receive from life is dependent upon what we put in.