Work can be a culture shock for new graduates who have spent the last 16-plus years in schools where success is defined by A’s on their papers and accolades on their CVs. It can especially be a shock for those who scraped by on showing up to class, turning incomplete papers, and only being involved when required.
Before graduation, students need to know that a qualification might get them in the door for an interview and increase their earning potential, but it’s only part of the employment equation. To land the job, employers aren’t only looking at what you know; they want to know what you can do. After all, they have a big pool to choose from.
Employers are looking for a cultural fit in a prospective employee, rather than a particular skill set. The vast majority of employers aren’t asking the applicant if they have mastered their company’s systems, but rather: Does this person exude professionalism? Are they excited about the company? Are they confident? Do they crave challenge? Will they self-motivate and self-monitor? Do they have the potential to become an asset to the company?
Unfortunately for students, these skills are largely developed through experience in real-life learning labs — such as a part-time job, an internship, volunteer work, and campus activities — that aren’t always required to earn a degree. Whether or not professional skills are taught in the class curriculum, students should treat each of their classes and opportunities available on campus like they depend on it to get the experiential learning they need to be prepared for the world of work.
*by The Gen Reporter
