Do you ever feel that common sense needs to be the first class that is taught in college?

It usually goes without saying, but common sense tells you that the Golden Rule applies to building your industry credibility. It's surprising to me how many people forget this simple tenet for business and life. Unfortunately, I've seen extremely talented people in our industry flame out because they forgot how to treat the people they do business with.

As you soak up your industry knowledge and flex your newfound muscles, be careful not to leave debris of bugs splattered on your career windshield. As you become more seasoned, focus on giving back to the industry and helping to contribute to the talent pool. Whether it's as a thought leader or simply giving guidance to newbies in the industry, you'll get back much more than you put in.

We are in a highly connected and highly social industry where opinions about individuals are shared freely. Follow the simple motto coined by the movie "Bill and Ted's Excellent Adventure": "Be excellent to each other." It will attract others to you and raise your stature in the interactive community faster than you can imagine.

Sean Cheyney is the VP of marketing and business development for AccuQuote.