What advice do you have for recent graduates and other career starters as they enter the workforce? What do you wish you had been told as you started your career?

Here are some advice for recent graduates and other career starters as they enter the workforce:

• Be open to feedback. No one is perfect, and everyone has room to grow. Be open to feedback from your manager, colleagues, and customers. This will help you identify areas where you can improve and become a better employee.
• Be willing to learn. The world of work is constantly changing, so it's important to be willing to learn new things. This could mean taking on new responsibilities at work, learning new skills, or simply staying up-to-date on industry trends.
• Be proactive. Don't wait for things to come to you. Take initiative and seek out opportunities to learn and grow. This could mean volunteering for new projects, taking on extra work, or simply asking your manager for more responsibility.
• Be a team player. No one can succeed in isolation. Be willing to work with others and collaborate on projects. This will help you build relationships, learn from others, and achieve common goals.
• Be positive. A positive attitude is contagious. Bring a positive attitude to work every day and you'll be more likely to have a positive impact on your team and your company.

Here are some things I wish I had been told as I started my career:

• It's okay to make mistakes. Everyone makes mistakes, and it's how you learn and grow. Don't be afraid to take risks and try new things.
• Don't be afraid to ask for help. There is no shame in asking for help when you need it. Your manager, colleagues, and mentors are there to help you succeed.
• Take care of yourself. Your health and well-being are important. Make sure to get enough sleep, eat healthy foods, and exercise regularly.
• Enjoy the journey. Your career is a marathon, not a sprint. Enjoy the ride and don't be too hard on yourself.

I hope this advice helps you as you start your career.

Rudy Ludinata
CEM’s Deputy Director

Date of Input: 14/06/2023 | Updated: 14/06/2023 | zul_mohd