You’ve been preparing for years, there are a number of important lessons you can’t learn from a book or in a classroom.
Many tests, classes, jobs, and life experiences have led you to this very moment. You’re now ready to enter into your career! While you’ve been preparing for this moment for years, there are a number of important real-world lessons that you can’t learn from a book or in a classroom. You’ll acquire this knowledge in the weeks and years to come through trial and error while on-the-job.
To help ease the transition and gain a little insider info, here are our top five tips for those taking their first steps into workforce:
While it’s easy to quickly compose an email, sometimes it’s better to pick up the phone or swing by someone’s desk. For example, if there’s a misunderstanding between you and a co-worker, avoid conflict with voice-to-voice communication. Or, if you need confirm a complicated order with a customer, pick up the phone to iron out the details. Take cues from others on how they prefer to communicate; if a customer frequently returns your emails with a phone call, start picking up the phone yourself.
New grads are accustomed to primarily interacting with classmates from their own generation. Once you’re in the workforce, you’ll be intermixed with multiple generations. Each has differing upbringings, traditions, and worldviews. Educate yourself on the values of each generation and work with your manager if you need help navigating conflicting perspectives.
Don’t let a foolish social media post come between you and your job. If you’re not comfortable with your grandmother seeing it, don’t post it. It’s that simple! Review your privacy settings and keep your online posts clean and appropriate. If you make any mention of work online, keep it positive!
As a new employee (and really, as a human being), you’re bound to stumble from time to time. Employers are more concerned about how you recover than the mistake itself. Be upfront with your boss about your errors, but also be ready to problem-solve and propose solutions. Also show that you learned a valuable lesson by explaining how you’ll avoid making the same blunder again.
Appreciates recognition and wants to pass along wisdom
Believes in self-sufficiency and values job security
Craves flexibility and loves the idea of working from home or creating own hours
Hasn’t experienced the pre-internet world and is motivated by rewards and continuing education
Office dress codes can vary between “business formal” to “business casual.” Some often will throw in a “Casual Friday” from time to time as well. Always adhere to your company’s policies and never under-dress. How you dress will tell your employer how you see yourself and how you approach your work.
Congratulations on taking this important step in your life and career! If you need more career advice, contact us!
This site uses cookies to analyse traffic and to optimize your experience.