So far your life may feel like it has been all planned out. With graduation just round the corner what happens next is much more open.
You may have a graduate job lined up. Or perhaps you’re taking time out to get experience or travel. Even if you have ‘no idea’ what next, we have tips to help in this series of three blogs.
I have a graduate job – how can I adjust to a new way of life?
You may find it a shock when you go from studying to the working world. Time previously dedicated to the whole-life experience that is university will drastically alter.
You will need to make a lot of adjustments when you move into a 40-hour working week. Initially a supervisor may tell you what to do. And some tasks you will enjoy more than others, but this is your chance to learn new skills.
If you’re a newbie, be open to try all tasks. This is important whatever the job. Be punctual and offer to help your team. Let them know where your skills lie. Offer improvements when you see they will improve outcomes and workload.
Once you have settled into your role you can talk to your manager about the tasks you enjoy and ask for more of this type or work. Jobs often evolve with the person, so this can help your role move in a direction that suits you.
Getting along with your colleagues
Your colleagues are likely to be of a much wider age spectrum than at university. They may also have a different attitude to work and projects than you.
If they have families, be mindful that they may view timescales and working long hours differently to you. Understand that what you offer in youth and energy, they make up for in experience and skills.
Negotiating a work social environment
Be friendly but not familiar and definitely don’t take part in gossip. Use the first few weeks to learn about your job and to meet your colleagues.
If you are invited out, try to go – it’s a good way of getting to know people. But do behave professionally even if you are out after work. It would be wise to hold back from drinking while you are still new.
If colleagues are making you tea and coffee, make sure you return the favour. Most importantly make sure you aren’t taking milk that isn’t yours!
Keeping up with developments
Your education doesn’t stop when you throw your mortar board in the air. Your career is a continuous learning journey.
Make sure you ask questions and discuss your training needs with your manager. If a year or two into the job you want further help with your direction, you can contact us for help.
Whatever your situation, Employability & Careers can help. On graduation, you can create a graduate account on Surrey Pathfinder giving you access to a full range of resources, events and job vacancies as well as one to one careers advice for three years.
Further Reading on Surrey Pathfinder
You may not have post-university plans. Perhaps you want more life experience before starting your career. Read our next blogs for more tips. Can’t wait? Check them out here:
