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Are you a female student just about to graduate from college? I'm sure you are all excited to start this new journey. Now that you have finished college and are about to start work, you will be independent and earn your own salary. Essentially, you are about to jump into the real world. Even with all the excitement, it is entirely normal to feel hesitant.
Here are six things that every woman should know after college and before joining the workforce.
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You aren't guaranteed instant success. You may not get the first job that you interviewed for. Or even the second. There may be many rejections, but there will always be a yes. Don't give up. Take up internships or minor roles in the field and work hard. Remember that every role is important and has a part to play. Success will come to you.
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Your first job may not be all that. You're just out of college. Your first job will probably have you in a small role. You will be expected to learn the ropes. Most likely, you will start at the bottom and raise yourself up.
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The real world isn't all work and no play While it is true that with independence comes great responsibility, that doesn't mean it has to be miserable. The real world isn't rainbows for sure. You will be salaried and expected to care for yourself and maybe provide for your family. However, don't forget to live for yourself a little. Choose a job you enjoy. Don't work outside of your work hours. Please stay away from miserable coworkers who hate their job. Remember, misery loves company - you may end up feeling low too.
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Someone you know might be more successful. Someone who studied with you might end up doing something else. It might seem that they are doing way better. They might be more successful and live a better lifestyle. You might feel a little resentful. But don't get caught up comparing. It will not do you any good.
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Pay attention at work. This doesn't only include meetings. Of course, pay attention during meetings - take down notes. It will come in handy. More importantly, pay attention to everything at work. Notice how your seniors handle their workload. Note the risks they take and the battles they choose to fight. Learn from everyone around you. Pay attention to e-mails. 99% of the time, they contain workload information. Remember to communicate clearly without leaving room for doubt. Don't fall for passive-aggressive tactics, gossip and office politics.
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Don't get stuck Your education might be over, but that doesn't mean your learning should stop. Keep up-to-date with your job requirements. Learn as you grow. Figure out your strengths and weaknesses and work on them. Most importantly, the day of holding down a job for all your life is gone. Be smart and take up new and better opportunities when they arise. Stay on good terms as you move on - remember, most industries are smaller than you think.
Now that you are ready, check out exciting jobs at Glow & Lovely Careers (formerly known as Fair & Lovely Career Foundation). Welcome to the real world!