You just graduated and got an offer. Congratulations! Now comes the hard work – impressing your new boss and co-workers. Let the Phoenix recruiters at PrideStaff help you with the process. Here’s a look at 6 common mistakes new graduates make and how to avoid them:
Mistake #1: Only using technology to communicate.
Between gmail and Slack, you have plenty of tools to talk with your fellow team members. As a result, it might sometimes feel like days go by without touching base in person. However, don’t underestimate the value of face-to-face communication, too. There are times when it makes sense to message a co-worker; and other situations where you should step away from your computer or put your phone down and connect in person.
Mistake #2: You don’t dress the part.
In college, wearing pajama pants to class isn’t a big deal. Undressing at work, however, will make you look immature and unprofessional. Even if you don’t like dressing up, if that’s your office culture, it’s something you’ll need to accept. Otherwise, you’ll be sending out negative non-verbal cues about your level of professionalism.
Mistake #3: Procrastinating on projects.
In your college days, your professor might have given you an extension. Don’t expect the same from your boss. That’s why it’s important to hit the ground running when you’re assigned a new project. Don’t wait until the last minute or think you’re going to pull an all-nighter. It’s going to impact work quality, not to mention your reputation.
Mistake #4: Avoiding feedback or constantly asking for it.
When it comes to feedback, a good balance is best. You want your boss to give you enough so you know where you stand, areas you need to improve upon, and what you’re doing right. However, avoiding it sends the message that you don’t care or don’t want to deal with it. Asking for it constantly, on the other hand, makes you look uncertain and lacking in confidence.
Mistake #5: Thinking you shouldn’t have to perform menial tasks.
When it comes to being a new grad, you’re starting at the bottom. Sometimes, that means you have to perform the grunt work around the office. The good news is that if you do it with a positive attitude you’ll often get promoted to something more interesting.
Mistake #6: Posting negative comments about your job on social media.
Now that you’re a professional, what you post on social media matters even more than it did before. Therefore, don’t ever say anything negative about your boss, co-workers or company. Doing so can impact your reputation at work and potentially even get you terminated.
Are you a new grad or an experienced professional looking for work?
Don’t go it alone. Let the Phoenix recruiters at PrideStaff help you find the opportunity you want faster. Contact us today to learn more or get started.
