Career advice for those fresh out of school

Background

Quite often I work with college interns or people fresh out of college. They ask for career advice, fully expecting to get the standard “Follow your dreams!” speech from every commencement. This is a more detailed version of the advice that I give them.

Be Humble

You’re transitioning from an environment where you were one of the most senior people around to one where you are one of the least experienced. People react to this situation in different ways. One of the most common is to be arrogant: I’m amazing, I’m great, I did these things in the past. Almost no one cares about these things. The time to talk about what you did in the past is in the interview, when you are convincing people that you can do the job. Once you’re hired people only care about what you are doing here.

Instead, choose to be humble. Ask questions of the people around you. Acknowledge their expertise in the industry, or at least in this company. Do things their way, even if it doesn’t make sense initially. Be very verbally appreciative when someone helps you out.

Be Teachable

When people take the time to help you out, take notes. If something is unclear, ask probing questions. Repeat things back to make sure that you got it right. It is very frustrating to train someone on the same task multiple times because they didn’t take it seriously the first time. Since you’re just starting at the company, literally everyone’s time is more valuable than yours. Show respect by making the most of the time that they give you.

Be Helpful

In most industries it takes a while to be trained up. During that time you are an investment for the company: taking time from more experienced people with the expectation that you’ll provide more value later. But don’t wait to add value! Anytime you see something that needs doing, do it. Is there some menial task that your mentor doesn’t like doing? For now, that is your new favorite activity. Be on the lookout for ways to make things better for your team, manager, division, company etc. Also, consider next year’s new hires; what would be most helpful for them to know? Consider starting or adding to a wiki so that future new hires ramp up more quickly.