These times are A-Changin’
Making these transitions from your college to your career involves a major lifecycle change. You will be given more responsibility and less room for error. The excuses you had in college don’t always fly in the real world.
You will have less freedom then in college. Your workday will be more structured and set than what you are used to. You will also have less vacation. You will have holidays off and usually two weeks vacation after your first year on the job.
Greater scrutiny will be placed on your performance. Repeating work is not an option and you will not have the ability to “do better on the next exam.” Remember, the company and its money are riding on your performance.
There will be fewer social opportunities than in college. Making new friends will not be as easy as it was in your classes, residence hall, etc. You will have to become active in your community to seek out new friends.
There will be more repetition of tasks. Instead of four or five classes to vary your schedule, you will have one position that will consume your time – some of your work will be somewhat routine.
In reality, what you have been doing for the last four years will be bear very little resemblance to what you will be doing for the next four years. Knowing that you have the formal education that college promised you and that now you must “go it alone” will help you during this time of transition.
Didn’t I see you in the Real World?
Working as an intern during college or even a part time gig tells the company that you are already familiar with what to expect in a “real” job atmosphere.
Don’t I know you?
Network like crazy! Most fresh graduates get jobs because they know someone. Start compiling a list of people who can help your cause. Family, friends, friends of friends, college professors will get you on your way. Attend job fair events and professional events to grow your networking list.
This Bytes
Even if you are not entering the technology field, you will need to demonstrate proficiency with the basics. Seeing that most new grads have been using computers for years, this should not be a problem. Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, and PowerPoint are “must know” computer skills.
Communication Breakdown
No matter what career you choose, you need to have solid written and oral communication skills to get a job.
Do your research
It is imperative that you know about the company you are interviewing with. With the advent of social media, you will be able to research the people you are interviewing with as well.
Thanks Buddy
A thank you note following the interviews is necessity. This will display that you have solid follow up skills and that you are truly interested in the job
Follow up is everything. So many applicants do a great job upfront presenting their personal brand, but completely strike out when it comes to sending a thank you. Very few customers are sold after the first pitch–the bulk of sales happen with follow up.
Selling yourself is no different. Great post!