This is the time of year when college seniors begin to really think about what they'll do after they graduate. Some, perhaps few, have jobs lined up already. Finding a job is difficult, especially if you haven't had "real experience" to put on your resume. But that shouldn't be an issue if you understand how to translate your college activities into "experience".
The same advice holds true for anyone searching for a new job. Learning how to translate your past experiences into something your future employer will value is difficult. It requires an understanding of what your future employer would be looking for and an understanding of sales and marketing! Spinning is a very valuable skill!
It always helps if you have something to work with first, so here are my 6 wishes for anyone who is serious about managing their career:
1. Get involved.
Do more than just get good grades or do your job. Take initiative and get involved in projects, groups, activities that will build skills and connections.
2. Build relationships.
Make connections inside and outside your normal circle. You can never know enough people.
3. Find a mentor or mentors.
Find people you respect and either set up a formal or informal mentoring relationship.
4. Be "Other-centric".
It isn't all about you. Give whatever you can and do it generously. Volunteering is always a good idea but what I'm talking about goes much deeper. Showing an interest/concern for others should be practiced in thought, word and deed.
5. Continue to Learn
Just because you're out of school doesn't mean you've finished learning. Continue to seek information. Soak up new ideas. Commit to being a life-long learner.
6. Develop Resiliency
This is going to be a bumpy ride. Things won't go the way you plan. Be able to adapt and adjust. Learn how to roll with the punches and make lemonade out of lemons.
These wishes apply to us all, no matter what stage of life we are in. What advice/wishes do you have for someone embarking on a new phase of life?
Hannah Morgan speaks and writes about job search and career strategies. She founded CareerSherpa.net to educate professionals on how to maneuver through today’s job search process. Hannah was nominated as a LinkedIn Top Voice in Job Search and Careers and is a regular contributor to US News & World Report. She has been quoted by media outlets, including Forbes, USA Today, Money Magazine, Huffington Post, as well as many other publications. She is also author of The Infographic Resume and co-author of Social Networking for Business Success.
