05/13/2021
Congratulations, class of 2021! You have accomplished what can be considered your most significant achievement to date. As you enter a workforce that none of us have experienced before, the future is unpredictable, and conditions are ever-changing. One thing that stays constant is your opportunity to learn and grow. As you move forward in life and begin your career, please take this advice with you:
-Identify your definition of SUCCESS! Success isn't one-size-fits-all; It looks different for each individual. It would help if you took the time to determine what SUCCESS looks like for you before trying to live up to society's definition. Set a goal, make a plan of action, and start working your way to your SUCCESS.
-Master the two-way interview. A job interview is not just for the company seeking an employee that is a good fit; Candidates are also seeking a company that fits their lifestyle. A company's culture, leadership, and commitment to employees' well-being and career growth play a massive part in an employees' success and happiness in their role. Enter an interview with knowledge about the company, ask questions, and don't be afraid to take notes while the interviewer is speaking.
-Take every opportunity given to learn. Just as people of all levels and positions have something to teach, they also have something to learn. Networking, attending training and webinars, and reading will keep you up on your industry's latest trends.
-Be Coachable. Accepting, soliciting, and applying feedback given will put you in control of your success. Remember, you cannot know where you are going if you don't know your starting point.
-Don't be afraid to "fail-up." Failing, or falling short, is not a failure unless you do not learn from the fall. Don't be afraid to make mistakes. Those who do not fail do not learn. Own up to the mistakes you make, and always have a plan of action for correction.
-Reflect and RESET. Schedule time to reflect on your progress. Look back at your accomplishments and your challenges. Did you learn what you needed to know? Are you positioned to move forward? If not, I am here to tell you it is ok to RESET! As long as you know where you are, you can always set a new action plan to get to where you are trying to go.
Written By:
Preslyn Pike
Founder