Millennials are seen as a highly ambitions, adaptable, social media savvy and innovative generation – all these traits are sought after by businesses, as they strive to stay relevant in today’s fast changing corporate environment. As a millennial about to enter his/her first job, you might have been told by some that no amount of education can replace real life experience. So here are a few things you need to know about your first job:

Adaptation is Key:

Chances are, you will have to spend your time working with and amongst individuals from eclectic backgrounds, with widely differing opinions at times and probably for the first time in your life – from different generations. Being sensitive toward these differences and opening up your mind to a world that’s unfamiliar to you is crucial. Always keep in mind that all of you are working toward a common goal and you will realize that there is so much more to be learnt from the lives of those who are the least like us.

Learning Never Ends:

As a fresher, when you join an organization, you will be working with individuals more seasoned than you. Regardless of whether you were at the top of your class in college, nobody expects you to know the ins and outs of how everything works at your first job. Most organizations just want to find somebody who is curious to learn, confident enough to ask questions when s/he doesn’t know something, is open to feedback and eager to constantly improve. Your first job is the ideal platform for you to seek guidance and learn from your mistakes, so make the most of it!

Time is Everything:

In College, all-nighters, flexible work hours, spontaneous nights out and impulsive decisions are almost a way of life. Professional life however, is not quite the same. The same routine (if you can call it that) you had back in college is not going to cut it. The simple solution to adapting to your drastically new environment is to manage your time effectively. Be prepared to start planning your week in advance as this will provide you with some structure that enables you to prioritize what’s important while allowing you to make time for yourself. This will also save you the mammoth stress of handling multiple facets of your professional and personal life simultaneously.

Mistakes Are Your Best Friend:

This point plays a significant role when it comes to your professional life. Often, people let a failure have negative connotations, but at a job, especially one that you’re new to, mistakes are what make you. Not repeating those mistakes is where the success lies. As American political activist, Ralph Nader once said-

“Your best teacher is your last mistake.”

The ability to take risks is vital, as it is a leadership trait. But the instinct for it needs to emerge in the early phase of one’s career.

Value of Work Culture:

Given that every organization has its own unique culture, as a new employee it is better to observe the values and norms prevalent in your company. That said, it should not change who you are and maybe you can be instrumental in stretching some boundaries which may even be welcome as fresh air. Being aligned with your organizations work culture will be instrumental in your seamless transition into the new environment. Ultimately, work culture and environment matters as much if not more than business strategy and the spreadsheet.

The fact is, while a quality educational background can provide you with a strong foundation and a give you a head start in your career, your work experience is where you truly develop your skills and grow into valuable professional. The best way to give your new life a soaring start is to keep the above valuable points in mind.

The Dale Carnegie Training Open Programs are known for giving professionals a headstart in their careers. Find out more here.