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For 20-somethings, transitions to the working world, or transitions within it, can be filled with reward and recognition, or rejection and frustration. Sometimes the transition starts off well, the first job proves to be a good decision, and then suddenly it all goes awry. In a market such as the one we are in, the transition from college to career is proving to be harder for career starters than any other in history. Deciding what to pursue and how to pursue it is a decision that feels overwhelming for some and a big, fantastic adventure for others.
For those who are determined to be actors, doctors, astro-physicists, investment bankers or graphic designers, the path is clear. For those who feel more drawn to a liberal arts education, and want to explore their options before choosing a career, the path can be less clear. In fact it can be quite murky. In fact in both scenarios, it is possible that mis-steps will be made, regardless of how sure or unsure it feels right now.
And yet these transitions happen for all 20-somethings, regardless of IQ, GPA, socio-economic background, race, religion, personal lifestyle preferences. It is an inevitable transition, one that must occur in order to gain independence and personal and professional success.
So who is helping you with this transition?
Between the career services department on campus, your parents, their friends, Uncle Tom, and Aunt Sarah, there are many people who can help you with this transition. And yet, without a clear and well-researched plan, and tactics ranging from professional personal marketing materials, to a clean and targeted online and in-person reputation, all the contacts in the world won't secure you a job. They may get your foot in the door, but they won't bring you long-term success and happiness. Strategies used by your parents to find careers and jobs are very different from those used today. Developing, leveraging and managing a personal and professional network, takes time, commitment and care.
What questions are you asking yourself?
Should I take a year off between college and the start of my career in the real world? Would it be prudent to take a volunteer position to get my foot in the door? How much should I ask for? How will it be perceived if I took 5 years to graduate? Does it matter that my internship was unpaid? What's the difference between a resume and a portfolio? How can Linkedin help me - I've heard it's a really good tool? When should I start looking for a job? What are my financial and promotional goals for my first job? Should I take any job, just to get my foot in the door?
What are Transition Advisory Services?
They are a blend of guidance, mentoring, teaching and advocacy, so that the journey between higher education and the real world is exciting and productive, not challenging and full of rejection and frustration. Imagine having a first class career services department focused only on you, providing, insight, practical ideas, contacts, resources and cheerleading, whenever you need them. Conversations with your advisor may be easy, and sometimes hard, but they'll always be productive, and you'll always feel like you're making progress.
Practically, how do TAS work?
Our clients meet with us one on one, via Skype, phone or in person. Sessions may be weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly, with assignments given in between meetings. When the transition has been successful, relationships tend to continue. Our clients love having someone who knows them well, in addition to a family member, to check in with, bounce ideas off, and generally share concerns and successes.
Blog - http://joleonardllc.blogspot.com
