As a young and fresh grad, you’re likely to be privy to plenty of career clichés and stereotypes of the corporate world. Young millennials are often confined to their own shell. They prefer leading alone rather than working in a team. Moreover, they’re always connected, ambitious and approval-oriented.
Moreover, tips like “following your passion, “giving 200%,” and “be true to yourself” just aren’t making the cut for them anymore. And perhaps advice like, “take a break” and “relax” are more up their alley.
For those struggling the inner dilemma and new work place stressors, Monster experts share some unconventional tips for those in their 20’s and looking to conquer the corporate world.
More Team, Less Laptop
Young millennials are constantly plugged in and don’t understand that the strongest relationship are built in person, not online. As a fresher, your key goal should be to win the confidence of your peers and co-workers at work. People, who are able to work in teams, tend to communicate well and be more productive. Soft skills will always become more cherished in companies. It’s important to drop your technology and actually communicate with people.
Interaction is key to networking and expanding your professional circle. It opens multiple avenues to share ideas and also build your credibility as a newbie.
Pick A Task And Make It Great
No matter how big or small, the quality of your initial projects at work will reflect the bigger assignments you score in the future. Irrespective of what you are assigned and how critical it is to business, make sure to make it look great and not just ‘good’. The faster you make an impact in your company the more attention and support you will get. Starting on day one, you have to learn as much as possible and start mastering your job so you can latch on to the bigger projects faster.
Moreover, seek advice from your colleagues and seniors, share experiences and pick up interpersonal skills from your surroundings. Staying confined to your own shell and building a career roadmap in isolation will only lead till a certain level and not beyond.
Take More Risks
Contrary to popular belief, young grads must be open to taking risks early in their career. At every step in your career, there will things that would be out of our control and if you keep doing what you did yesterday, you will never get ahead. By taking a risk, you are putting yourself in a place to learn more, whether you succeed or fail. You are also showing to your teams and bosses that you’re willing to put your reputation on the line to drive results. As we head to an ever more entrepreneurial economy, those taking risks, both inside and outside of the corporate walls, will become more successful.
Measure, Measure And Measure Your Work
Outcomes and results are the reason people shine at their workplace. Its the only tangible output to gauge your potential. Make this a habit early in your career and measure everything you do. Build a case study of every assignment and track your output rather than stating early demands for career jumps. Employers and managers today and especially in the future, are looking for outcomes. They want to know the impact you’re having on a company through your work, which means growing revenue or decreasing costs. Remember to measure your projects and keep track of the results because that’s what’s going to help you justify promotions.
Raise Your Hand
There are no better workers than those who lend their hands to take on more work. It is filling in the cracks that enable you to take on bigger roles and get some well-deserved recognition. These one-off projects can be that extra little push that moves you from an 8 to the perfect 10. Grab projects that are interesting and offer opportunities to learn a new skill and put you in contact with other leaders in your organization.
In addition to questioning curiosity, pushing the boundaries, and knowing what you don’t know, consider these tips to shine at your first job.
