If You Recently Graduated College, Then You Know That The Milestone Is Bittersweet, And Here Are A Couple Of Things To Keep In Mind As You Work To Build Your Career
The following column is the opinion and analysis of the writer, Katharina Buczek.
If you recently graduated college, then you know that the milestone is bittersweet.
In half of your heart, you are probably sad to leave behind campus, friends, and late-night hangouts that helped ground you and give you a sense of community.
Then, the other half of you likely feels on top of the world. You did it, you finally graduated college, and now the world is your oyster.
It is totally natural, if not necessary, to feel this way. Recent graduates are trying to break into a highly competitive workforce, and confidence is the key to standing out.
But as you apply to dozens of job postings on LinkedIn and get your foot in the door for some interviews, it’s critical to keep some other tips in mind as you work to build your early career.
What College Grads Need To Remember
First of all, I don’t mean to minimize the accomplishment of graduating college at all. But we also cannot deny the fact that many new graduates are sometimes “know-it-alls.”
I am not saying to dial down your confidence, and I don’t want you to feel inadequate after you land a new role. Instead, I’m simply pointing out how you just graduated from college– and everything you learned is just a foundation for more learning on the job.
So, on the one hand, this is actually a great thing. When hiring recent graduates, employers know that experience is usually low and robust training will be in order. That’s why you should take any training or one-on-one sessions with a supervisor and use them to your advantage.
Prostock-studio- Stock.Adobe.com, illustrative purposes only
Be a sponge, soak up information, and remember that you are not as smart as you think you are. Practice humility instead of arrogance, and take all opportunities to learn, ask questions, and better yourself. This will immediately impress your employers.
Speaking of impressing employers, this may sound cliché, but you create a first impression from the moment you walk into the office. Be sure to hold your head high, practice politeness, dress for success, and be attentive. Listen while you are in meetings, be curious, and search for ways to add value.
It’s often the little things that catch a supervisor’s eye. So find your strengths, lean into them, and think about the kind of impression you want to create.
After all, starting a new job is essentially a reinvention of yourself. You decide how others perceive you through your words and actions. Choose wisely.
Then, once you make a stellar first impression, it’s time to actually get to work. And this is where many new graduates struggle.
You may feel confused, hesitant, or like your new role is “out of your league.” And while this is completely natural, don’t be your own worst critic.
Counting yourself out is a surefire way to kill your confidence and result in shoddy work. Instead, acknowledge your weaknesses and start working to compensate for them.
If you have questions, don’t be afraid to ask. And if you just need a better understanding of some operational processes, do your homework.
Compile notes, lists, guides, flow charts– whatever works for you. Go above and beyond not just because it will wow your coworkers but because it will also help you learn.
This is known as “working smarter.” You are killing two birds with one stone. And while this might be challenging, it is extremely worth it in the long run.
As you show repeated diligence and produce consistent results, your employer will take notice. Building this track record will set the stage for future project opportunities, bonuses, and even promotions. That’s why starting off with a bang and sticking to good habits is your key to success.
Aside from the actual “work,” you should also focus on other soft skills. Hone your listening skills, compassion, empathy, and understanding. You will always have to work with a team– no matter if you stay at your first job for years to come or move on to a different company.
That’s why forging connections with people is beneficial for two reasons. First, you will become a better collaborator and communicator and prove that you add value when working with others.
Second, you will forge valuable connections that will help you throughout your career. When it comes time to put down references on a future job application, you will have an index of colleagues to choose from who can each attest to your dedication and hard work.
Speaking of forging connections, recent graduates should also always look for networking opportunities– regardless of whether they already have a job or not.
You never know who you might strike up a conversation with. You could find out about a bigger and better employment opportunity, or you may run into a potential client that could be extremely valuable to your current company. Can you imagine bringing in great new project opportunities as a new hire? Talk about making a great first impression!
As you navigate your post-college life, though, there is one last crucial piece of advice I can lend you. Stop trying to be who you think you “should” be, and just be yourself.
You will never fill a past coworker’s shoes the exact same way. And you will never network in the same manner as a past classmate from school.
You are yourself for a reason, and you bring your own unique set of skills and traits to the table. Practice the power of authenticity, use your voice, develop your own style, and take up space.
You shouldn’t feel like you have “shoes to fill.” Instead, make your own mold, have fun, and keep learning while doing it.
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