Will I find the perfect job after getting my diploma? The question that triggers anxiety in many graduates each year. It is often the case that most will rush into positions having high expectations of an idyllic place of work where they will be unravelling their full potential from day one. For anyone out there about to transition from academia to a new working environment, here are some points to keep in mind to make this process smoother.
Forget everything you learned but not completely
Using a new company software, designing in a different way... It may even feel like you are doing university all over again. Empty your mindspace and be prepared to learn- quickly. However, do not completely forget all that you know. Keep it at the back of your mind. There are times you will find yourself tapping into this knowledge and using it for certain circumstances.
It’s more personal than technical
There might be a misunderstanding that if you are an A student you will be great at your job. Well, not necessarily. Attitude comes way above technical knowledge. It is still important to know what you are doing (you probably wouldn't be hired if you didn’t). But most times the relationships you build, how you communicate, and how you react in situations are valued much more than any tricks you know on Photoshop. You work with people. Around people. For people.
It’s not about what you do, it’s about how you do it
Starting out in a career usually means that you might be the one to do all the daunting and not so exciting tasks. From bringing coffee to a senior, logging in information in a software, to tidying and ordering documents. In these times, be sure to remember: how you do one thing is how you do most things. People will recognize your ability to be detail orientated and proactive even when you are hanging samples on a rail. Use this to your advantage and take on any opportunity to show how passionate you are about what you do.
Jumping from university to work is not hard. All you need to be is open minded, eager to learn, ready to understand and thrilled to do your best. Oh, and do remember to enjoy it because it won’t be long before you are a senior yourself laughing at the memories of your first day trying to fix the printer.
Sincerely Yours, Elena
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