3 Things New Grads Should Do to Kick Start Their Careers
As you walk away from campus with a degree in hand, take pride in your accomplishments! Remember what you have overcome, learned, and mastered. Whether you are kicking off your career or on the hunt for a new position — your future success depends on the initiative you take moving forward. These foundational steps can get you on the right track.
Build your Experience and Knowledge Base
If you do not yet have a job offer, build your experience through the following:
Look for an internship or entry level position.
Volunteer in a related field.
Research companies and industries you are interested in. Schedule informational interviews with people at these companies.
Take a course to expand up your skillset and enhance your resume.
Start a business that puts your skills to use.
Build Your Reputation
As a new employee, it is important to develop your credibility. Organizational psychologist, Karlyn Borysenko suggests that new grads remember they are an “apprentice, not a decision-maker.” Be willing to learn and grow. Develop your credibility so that your brilliant ideas will be more readily received when you have established your reputation down the road. Don’t gossip and be your authentic self.
Build a Network
Prioritize building a network. Though this will be an ongoing process, start now identifying those who can support you as you grow in your new career.
A mentor can help you to make solid decisions and navigate workplace politics.
A Career Advisory Board (C.A.B.) can be a vehicle that helps you navigate from one point to the next point in your career. These people in your C.A.B. are reliable, credible people who can provide you with advice and support.
A Networking Roadmap can help expand your network and set you up for future opportunities. Join your city or regional alumni chapter and begin attending meetings.