As educators, you play a pivotal role in shaping the future of your students. Recently, as the Chief People Officer for a mid-sized Civil Engineering firm, I encountered a situation that underscores the importance of your guidance in helping students transition from the academic world to the work world.
A new graduate from a respectable university joined our firm. She interviewed well and had the foundational knowledge for the role, so we were excited to bring her on board. However, things quickly took a turn for the worse. Despite our efforts to support her with training, coaching, and mentoring, we eventually placed her on a performance improvement plan. She resigned stating, “This isn’t what I thought I was going to be.”
You might wonder, “What went wrong?” Perhaps she had a romanticized view of the role or chose the wrong profession. In my opinion, she simply was not prepared for the realities of the workplace. Her academic experience did not equip her with the practical skills needed to thrive in a professional environment. She was smart and eager but lacked the necessary understanding of how to navigate the workplace successfully.
I have noticed an increasing number of similar scenarios. Corporate America needs your help. You can play a crucial role in guiding your students to transition successfully from a study desk to a work desk. Here are some ways you can support them:
Study Up
Advise your students to research the company they are joining. Understanding the mission, values, and recent news of their future employer will help them feel more prepared, confident, and connected to the organization right from the start.
Make Early Connections via LinkedIn and Network
Encourage your students to reach out to people at their new company, especially those in their department. Let them know it is beneficial to connect with their coworkers. Encourage them to take advantage of networking opportunities once they have joined such as company luncheons, outings, and volunteer events. These early connections can be the foundation of their future success.
Show Interest and Ask Questions
Explain to your students the importance of showing interest in their tasks, coworkers, and the company. Tell them that their fellow coworkers are willing to assist new employees. For example, if they are unsure of the preferred dress attire, they should ask. If they do not know how to do perform a specific task, they should ask. People value honesty and humility in a coworker who is willing to learn.
Be Resilient While Being Their Best Self
Remind your students to bring their energy and authentic self to the workplace just as they do to their favorite class. Emphasize the importance of presenting their best selves every single day. Be sure to advise them that a new job can be challenging at times. Demonstrating resiliency is key. This is the first chapter of their career journey; they need to make it count.
Perhaps if the smart and eager graduate had been more knowledgeable of the firm, understood what to expect, was not afraid to ask questions, sought help when needed, and did not let the “newness” of the work world overwhelm her, the first step of her career journey would have been a successful one.
I want to welcome graduates to our firm who are knowledgeable, prepared, and engaged. Starting out with helpful advice from their professor can make a significant difference. To all you educators guiding new graduates, thank you for your dedication and support in assisting them in the transition from academia to the workplace.
Keri L. Smith, ACC, SHRM-SCP, GPHR, CPTD
Chief People Officer at DOWL
