*

Log In
Create Account

Article:

Networking Tips to Land Your First Job

The Road from College to That First Job is Difficult -- So Let Us Help

Communicate Effectively

Q: What do you think is the most difficult thing for new college grads to manage in their transition to a first job?

Lindsey: Communication skills are very different between college and the "real world" and that's where I tend to see new grads make the most mistakes. In a professional environment, you have to remember that everything you write or say is contributing to your professional reputation.

This means that emails need to be written in a professional style and tone (limit text message speak, limit or eliminate emoticons, avoid using "Hey" as a greeting, etc.) and you have to carefully choose your communication methods. Texting and IM are generally not appropriate for the workplace (unless you've specifically discussed using these methods with your boss or your company has an internal IM system) and you need to learn to speak well in meetings and professional presentations. 

 

  • Miriam Salpeter

    Miriam Salpeter, author of Social Networking for Career Success (Learning Express, 2011) and 100 Conversations for Career Success (Learning Express, Fall, 2012), owns her own job search and social media coaching firm, Keppie Careers. Miriam … Read more...