Creativity, confidence, good communication and professionalism are some of the keys that will help you make your first work experience successful.
Getting your first job always creates expectations, as it is the opportunity to transcend the academic universe and come into contact with a work environment that demands your skills and abilities. It is, therefore, the entry into a field of action and, why not, training.
More than finding a job, it is important to know how to choose the opportunities you apply for and the process to access them, because “it is a common tendency among recent graduates to want to reach the top of an organization in the short term,” says Pilar Castañeda, an organizational psychologist, adding that “ongoing training, accompanied by the development of emotional intelligence, becomes an investment when expectations are in search of a better position or a better salary.”
Another factor that you should take into account is the current panorama of the region in terms of job offers for those who are just starting their careers. With regard to this, the BID makes a call, because "it is imperative to develop comprehensive employment policies that include programs to help young people overcome the obstacles that prevent them from finding quality jobs. More efforts are needed to smooth the transition to a first job, ensuring that young people have the skills that employers demand.s apprenticeship programs They are an option that has shown positive results in supporting this transition from school to work.”
Just like an exam at university, facing your first job experience requires preparation in several aspects: psychological, aesthetic and economic, among others.
Stephanie González Rubio, consultant in the IDB's Labor Markets Division, shares these recommendations that may be useful to you:
- Puntuality: The key to success is punctuality, especially if you are just starting out in the job market. Always remember the importance of respecting other people's time.
- You may not do what you are passionate about in your first job: Although some are lucky enough to start in the place they dreamed of, it is normal that your first work experience may be different from what you imagined as ideal. However, this is no reason to get discouraged, as these are the dynamics of the labor market. Focus on doing your best and climbing the steps that will bring you closer to your professional goal.
- Don't neglect your hobbies: Whether it's because of the excitement or the level of demands you put on yourself, you can make the mistake of living and breathing only for work. Although it's very positive to have a high level of commitment, it's also important to find a balance between the things you like and work responsibility. Exercising, reading, watching movies, among other activities, are a fundamental part of your personal life and you should maintain them.
- Be proactive: No one will tell you exactly how things are done. While there are already established ways of carrying out certain processes, try to be proactive and take the initiative to obtain better results. Take risks responsibly!
- Contribute ideas: In team discussions, it is very important to listen to what others say, understand the company's objectives and contribute according to your abilities. Dare to express your ideas and argue them correctly.
- Avoid isolating yourself: You are now part of a team, so take advantage of breaks to have a coffee with your coworkers or chat at lunchtime: it is a good way to get to know them and interact.
In conclusion, your first job is an important lesson that brings you closer to your goals. Make sure you enjoy it, learn and put all your skills into practice!
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