During this season of graduation, I thought it would be appropriate to address some important things to convey to college grads as they enter the workforce. It is an impressionable time. Here’s my quick advice to the younger generation:
1) Invest in yourself – not just professionally, yet wherever you find joy and fulfillment. Think about the areas of your life where you could spend more time to create a fulfilling life moving forward. Need that extra work license? Get it. Want to have more confidence speaking in front of large groups? Take a public speaking class. Need help finding your work passion? Hire a career coach.
2) Embrace a culture of learning – learning throughout life is important, yet especially at the early stages of one’s career. You will never have all the answers, yet developing a good culture of learning around your weekly activities is a great approach that promotes creative thinking in all facets of your life. Learning can be in the professional realm, yet also in other areas, like your forever changing list of hobbies. Never in a million years would I have dreamed that I would gravitate to a sport like Paddleball (not pickle). Learning new things allows for access and exposure to new people and experiences. PS if you’re looking for a game, you have my info.
3) Use your time wisely – Right now, many grads are hyper-focused on their “first real job.” It’s a stressful time. It will happen. Everyone is one their own timetable. When you get your break, be ready to take full advantage. Right now, you likely have a lot of free time. That will change, I promise. Developing good habits now is essential once that time becomes more limited. One’s scarcity of time acts almost inversely to your salary and growth in your industry.
4) Always take the meeting – Network, network, network. You never know where your big break is going to come from. Most experienced, working adults are happy to tell you about their career and industry over a coffee. They are also very willing to provide other introductions. Just ask. If you are respectful of their time, appreciative, professional, and friendly in your interactions with others, you’re already on your way.
Landed a job? Great. Yet if you have future networking events or interviews scheduled, keep them. That coffee that you have with Mrs. Smith today could grow into a mentorship, client, or business opportunity years down the line.
5) Enjoy the ride – It’s not always easy as a recent grad, yet enjoying the ride is essential. You’ll fail and be told “no” a lot. It’s part of the process. Recognizing your happy places, hobbies, and social support network can serve you well as you grow in your career. Pursue your passions, take some risks, and develop good habits. We can’t wait to see all you do.
PS Remember, “no one gets promoted at the company Christmas party.” 🙂
As parents and grandparents, you’ll have your own list. Don’t overwhelm them or put too much pressure on them, yet convey what you have learned and think is most important. Your years of work and experience are invaluable. I can still remember a conversation with a relative post-graduation: “You’ve graduated from an top university. Congrats. Everyone is now on the same playing field. Back to square one.” (I made it more PG of course).
