Leaving college to start your career can be pretty scary. You want a job that’s both challenging and rewarding – something exciting that makes you want to go to work every day.
Sheryl Sandberg, the author of Lean In: Women, Work, and the Will to Lead and also Lean In for Graduates, offers several tips for young people entering the workplace for the first time. Her advice could help you overcome your fears and figure out what you really want from your career.
Take risks
Don’t be afraid to take risks and put yourself out there. If you’re currently seeking an entry-level sales job, try applying for jobs that are slightly above your qualifications. The worst thing that could happen is you don’t get the job. And the best thing? You could land a job that is challenging, which can be very rewarding if you really stretch yourself to learn as you go.
Try a different perspective
Can’t get past the interview stage? Try approaching the interview from a different perspective. Young job seekers often simply focus on what they will learn and gain from a new position. In your next interview, consider also sharing what you bring to the table and what you can do to benefit your employer. Look for ways to make a good impression, such as researching the company and being prepared with questions that show you’ve done your homework.
Be confident
Sometimes it may seem as though everyone out there has more experience than you. This can devastate your confidence – but only if you let it. Instead of focusing on what you lack, give attention to the qualities you do have. You may not be ready for a job as a sales executive, but if you’ve managed to get an interview for an entry-level position, the hiring manager saw something he or she liked.
Know what you want
As you begin your entry-level sales job search, you’ll receive tons of advice from family, teachers and friends. They mean well, but don’t let their advice sway you from what you think you want. If you’re certain you wouldn’t enjoy living in a big city, don’t let others convince you that if you find the right job the location won’t matter. Only you know what would make you happy or unhappy in the long run. So go for it!
