Advice for New Grads: Three Things You Should Start Doing NOW

If you’ve just graduated college, you’ve just entered one of the most exciting phases of life! Like a “Choose Your Own Adventure” book, the road ahead is wide open. No matter if you’re well prepared or simply “winging it,” there are three things you should start doing right now, before you embark on yourfirst job. Here are our top three new grad tips:

1. Do a bit of self-discovery

Research has found that only 27% of college grads were able to find a job related to their major. Although this may seem startling, it actually makes sense. More than likely, you declared your major when you were 18 or so – and it’s probably safe to say that you’re a much different person now than you were back then. For that reason, now is the time to start doing a bit of self-discovery. Ask yourself: does your field of choice really fit your interests and personality? If need be, take some personality and career aptitude tests. These days, you don’t need to invest in a pricey career counselor – there are plenty of excellent, free tests online that can provide you with insight into your natural strengths.

If you’re beginning to realize that you’re just not that into your field of choice, that’s OK! It’s better to discover your true passion now than halfway through your career. You may feel as if you’re letting your parents, professors or significant others down, but at the end of the day, you’re being true to the most important person – yourself.

 

2. Research companies

Whether you’re looking for an internship, training program or entry level position, it’s important to do your research. In addition to researching a company’s clients, services, revenue, and so on, you’ll also want to explore the company’s culture. Make a check list of what’s important to you in a job (benefits, life/work balance, room for growth, fun atmosphere, etc.) Look through the company’s current employees on LinkedIn and think about how you’ll fit in. You may find that the company of your dreams is actually a terrible fit for your personality, goals and lifestyle!

3. Ask for help

A recent study found that 60% of graduates can’t find work in their field. Think about it – that means that over half of everyone in your graduating class will be unlikely to find work in their industry! If you want to avoid being one of the 60%, you’re going to have to be a little gutsy. Find local industry networking groups. If you’re planning on moving to a new city post-college, start doing your research and outreachnow. Above all, do not be scared to (politely) reach out to people in your field of interest and ask for advice! Sure, you may receive a few rejections, but more than likely, you’ll end up making some solid connections and acquiring some great advice. After all, it’s all about who you know, right?

Career, job, Jobsearch