5 Things You Don’t Learn in College

Hello Readers!

Hope you all are having a great Sunday so far. These days I am working on a few projects that involve researching about available career prospects and professional advice for fresh grads and young employees. And, I thought I should share some career-oriented posts with you all as well. So, be prepared for a series of such posts. Here comes the first one. I hope you’ll like it. 🙂

When we are in college, nothing really matters more than securing extra marks in a subject or passing an exam we dread the most. However, once we graduate and enter into our professional life, at some point, we realize that what we learnt in college is no longer completely applicable. In fact, we are expected to learn on the job. We have to be more open to developing new abilities that are imperative to succeed in the competitive environment of the corporate world.

Here’s a list of some skills we often have to learn once we graduate, which remain with us throughout our career life and beyond.

1. Learn to set boundaries and be responsible

As soon as we land into our first job, the first thing we are expected to do is be responsible. We are considered responsible for all our actions and decisions. In this regard, we have to set boundaries and then stick to them. Then only we are viewed as a responsible and reliable person in the workplace. We soon come to realize that we can’t be good at everything. Hence, it is important to recognize our strengths and weaknesses and prioritize what matters the most.

2. Engage a mentor

Always remember; you are never too old to learn. There is absolutely no harm in looking up to someone you can trust. Engage a reliable, more experienced person to help you recognize opportunities and discover ways to prosper.

3. It is okay to fail

Yes, you read it right. As long as you are learning something out of your failure, it is alright to fail. You emerge as a true winner if every wrong decision teaches you a valuable lesson. All you have to do is work on developing the courage to rise whenever you fall. Expertise in this area will get you a little closer to victory.

4. Put your own ideas on the table

Once in a while, surprise your manager (in a good way!) by putting forward your own ideas. This will not only convey your dedication to the boss but also portray you as an independent go-to person. Always focus on delivering first-class work, which simplifies the boss’ job and begins prepping you for the subsequent level.

5. Be comfortable in your own skin

Easier said than done! This is one of the toughest things to do once you enter into your professional life; especially when there is so much competition around. While it is good to challenge yourself, there is no need to go out of your comfort zone at every prospect and end up feeling depressed. Identify your fortes and cultivate an area of proficiency that stimulates you.

If you’re still in college then these tips will help you predict what to expect once you graduate. And, if you have already started your career then it is never too late to learn and prosper. What did you skip in college that you wish you had learned? Share with me!