first job
Careers advice

Making the Most of Your First Job Out of College

Welcome to the world of work, college grad. From finding the right role to making an impact, here are some tips to help you get things right first time.

The first job you take after you graduate could set the tone for the rest of your career, so keep your personal goals and ambitions in mind when you take that first step. Here’s some guidance on finding the right first job and getting the most out of it.

Have realistic expectations

You’re unlikely to grab your dream job right off the bat, so focus on landing one that helps build the right skills and experience.

A small company might be the best place to stand out and make an impact. A larger one could offer the training and support you need to develop a professional skill set.

Make the most of your contacts

Get in touch with old contacts and let them know you’re looking for a full-time role – you never know who might be able to help.

Communication

Student competitions, university societies, work experience and internships you’ve done are all always great networking opportunities.

Be confident and keep an open mind

Once you start in a new job, treat every situation as a learning opportunity. Focus on forging relationships that could move your career forward.

Your role and responsibilities could change as you and the company progress, opening new doors.

Get used to living outside your comfort zone

Education and work are different worlds. If you excelled at college, you might find your early days at work challenging and foreign.

This is a good thing. It means you’re learning the practicalities, picking up the skills and advice you need to succeed in your career.

Learn from rejection

Be prepared for rejection, and learn from it. Even the brightest and most talented will face it from time to time.

Make sure you understand the reasons why you were overlooked. Use it as an opportunity to improve your understanding of the career you’re trying to build.

Think creatively and help solve problems

If you think you know more about something than anyone else in the room, don’t be afraid to speak up. Your bosses may be open to letting you progress quickly, but that can’t happen if you aren’t an active and vocal participant at work.

Coming up with inventive ideas can help you stand out and earn you the respect of your colleagues.

College

Don’t get emotional about criticism

Some people aren’t good at giving criticism; some aren’t good at taking it. The workplace can be full of rough and tumble, and sometimes people just have bad days.

Good criticism is constructive, so use it that way. If you get unhelpful negativity, use it to grow a thicker skin. Either way, try not to take negative comments personally.

Making the jump from studying to full-time work can be daunting. So go easy on yourself and make an effort to stay upbeat and enthusiastic when you’re starting out.