Initiative: Making Lasting Impressions

Having completed your university studies, you may feel poised to conquer the world. Nevertheless, transitioning from being a capable student to a novice professional can be challenging. Tasks such as submitting job applications, preparing for interviews, and crafting the perfect CV and cover letter can often seem daunting. Yet, according to Maureen Lynch, the managing director at recruitment agency Hays Ireland, employers aren’t seeking perfection in recent graduates.

She insists that demonstrating a positive outlook, exceptional soft skills, tenacity, and the capacity to swiftly acquire new skills on the job, all contribute positively during an interview process. Hays Ireland recently released a report named ‘What Workers Want’, where the preferred recruiting tools for employers were identified as interviews and CV assessments.

Lynch emphasises that first impressions hold significant weight. Therefore, careful consideration should be given to how your CV is presented to help you differentiate from other applicants. Interviewers generally prefer competency-based and open-ended queries to assess the candidates’ skills, ethical values, and career ambitions.

She stresses that employers value candidates who have an attitude that resonates with the company’s requirements. The given interview format provides an opportunity for the candidates to express their comprehension of the industry and the firm’s organisational culture and their value addition to it.

Lynch advocates preparing well before your first job to gain an edge. Although most companies offer induction training for new employees, the initial days can be somewhat overwhelming. Yet, familiarising yourself with the firm, its location, competitors, and operational procedures can alleviate the pressures of transitioning. If there are any technologies or tools used commonly in the company, learning them before your first day could be advantageous. She urges recent graduates not to let their newness to the job sector work against them.

Being conscious of your experience level, your employer chose to recruit you. Granted, newly qualified individuals might not have the same degree of practice as long-standing employees, but that doesn’t mean they don’t bring unique insights.

Recent graduates are typically at the cutting edge of new ideas and knowledge because their education is still fresh in their minds. Equally, if not more important, is their motivation and openness to acquire new knowledge, regardless of pre-established expertise. To add to this, Ms Lynch noted that businesses are increasingly emphasising employee skill enhancement through in-house training.

“Companies understand that while fresh graduates may not have extensive experience, they highly appreciate those showing a positive learning mindset and enthusiasm for company progress,” she highlighted. Consequently, there’s a growing trend towards employer emphasis on skills-based learning and a candidate’s ability to adapt and equip themselves with new skills whilst on the job.

When you commence your career, it may seem natural to be reserved and introverted, but this mentality won’t help you carve out your own identity. Not being afraid to voice questions or ideas is of critical importance.

Proactively networking and forming relationships with people in other departments or organisations is an excellent way to become recognised. Networking is imperative for job security following graduation, Ms Lynch stressed.

“Networking provides opportunities to engage with professionals in the industry, who can provide advice and aid in navigating the job market. It provides an avenue for business professionals to meet new talent, recognise their potential, and think about them for future openings, especially when organisations often highlight high experience prerequisites, making job acquisition challenging for graduates,” she explained.

However, the concept of ‘networking’ can vary significantly across individuals. For instance, it may not demand attendance at strictly formal networking events. Something as simple as a LinkedIn connection followed by a coffee invitation could suffice, Ms Lynch suggested.

“In some cases, it may be beneficial to seek advice from fellow alumni who might be a year or two ahead in their careers,” she concluded.

Gaining employment is only the beginning of the journey, as pointed out by Ms Lynch. Retaining a positive outlook post the job hunt is extremely significant for those in junior positions. Employers tend to recruit based on demonstrated talent, perspective, and practicality shown during the recruitment process. Ms Lynch advises maintaining professional growth through steadied networking, skills refinement, and welcoming new challenges.

Sustaining and applying the capabilities shown during your job interview in your actual role is vital. As a recent graduate, you need to portray yourself as a reliable individual who gets results. Those individuals who prove their ability to manage tasks efficiently, propose resolutions, and ease the burden for others are the favourites of more experienced colleagues, Ms Lynch adds.

If you have pondered on how exactly you should align your career with your aspirations, your course of action will largely depend on your individual career growth ambitions. While some may pursue relentless promotion in their initial company, others may evaluate competitor firms and switch jobs more frequently.

A practical suggestion is to establish achievable objectives. As the year begins, jot down your preferred accomplishments – it could be spearheading a project, contributing to a strategic plan or even positioning yourself more confidently.

Understanding your worth as an employee and realizing that progression opportunities lie within as well as outside your current organisation is key, notes Ms Lynch. In strategising your career trajectory, consider opportunities that synchronise with your personal and professional necessities and what your firm can offer. It’s essential to deliberate on these matters judiciously and not rush. Reflect on your growth areas and the steps that would bring you closer to your career ambitions.

Requesting feedback shouldn’t be intimidating. An understanding of your performance, strengths, and weaknesses in your role is crucial for professional development. Ask for precise, constructive, and useful feedback on your tasks, projects, skills, and behaviours. However, be ready to accept constructive criticism and think over your manager’s suggestions.

In the preliminary phases of any profession, acquiring knowledge and having new experiences are critically significant, stated Ms Lynch. “Should you ever find yourself in a position where you cease to learn or sense any challenge in your work, it may be an indication to examine other alternatives that can further stimulate your professional development,” she advised.

Ms Lynch emphasised some crucial tips that beginners should remember when they step into the professional world or when they are trying to climb the corporate hierarchy. “Having an impressive professional profile is pivotal. This incorporates having a meticulously written CV and maintaining a professional online presence such as on LinkedIn, aligned with your career aspirations, and a portfolio,” she pointed out.

While undergraduate learning usually concentrates on acquiring degree-specific or technical skills, several transferable or soft skills are also developed. Group activities, delivering presentations, composing essays, and researching all contribute to fostering invaluable skills which are consistently useful at the workplace.

Ms Lynch noted, “Even though job performance requires technical skills, soft skills such as communication, time management, and teamwork play an equally significant role. Showcasing both your technical and soft skills can boost your chances of bagging a job.”

The key is to be a team player whom others can rely on in times of stress.

Instructions for the workplace:

– Familiarise yourself with the company. Make sure you understand the company’s operations and how your role contributes to this before joining a new organisation.
– Speak out. Silence or lack of confidence due to fear of appearing unintelligent often holds back many graduates. Remember, you were chosen for a specific reason, and your insights are valued by your employer.
– Be sincere and genuine. There’s no need to conform to a specific persona. A productive and professional colleague who remains true to their personality is highly appreciated.
– Be ready for change. Regardless of your initial understanding of the job or company, the practical world will always present something different from theoretical knowledge. Be open to adaptation and flexibility as you face a variety of challenges, opportunities, and changes.

Engage actively. If there are opportunities for networking or social gatherings with workmates, make a point to be there. They offer a fantastic platform to advance not only your career but also your personal life.

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