From Recent Grad to Job Hunter: What New College Grads Need in a Workplace
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Employers know the benefits of hiring a recent and enthusiastic college grad. Recent graduates will often bring that fresh set of eyes that is needed to help innovate and also demand diversity and HR initiatives that positively impact corporate culture.
While many larger companies have official training programs designed especially with the recent grad in mind, onboarding new grads can seem like a daunting effort to smaller companies or to those without official policies in place. However, the challenges should be seen as opportunities. New grads will rise to the occasion. Here is a bit of what fresh faces college grads look for when they are entering the workplace.
Assume the Best but Plan Ahead
New grads need to be welcomed into the company. From the basics such as expected start time to a full job description, including duties, no detail is too small. New grads look for a company atmosphere that allows for plenty of questions about what they need to know or feel like they don’t quite have a grasp on.
Policies and Procedures
Recent graduates are far more likely to have little to no prior professional experience before joining a company. One of the biggest frustrations of any new hire is often in learning policies and procedures that to more experienced workers may seem “normal.” Recent grads look for an employer that will take the time to go over items such as work from home expectations, retirement, healthcare, and any other benefits.
Meaningful Training
It’s wishful thinking to expect any new employee to hit the ground running without a fair bit of context around their job duties and responsibilities. Training new graduates is essential to help them feel comfortable and welcome on the job. Training can take the form of specialized instruction in individual tasks but should also include long-term thinking that allows the employee to see your investment in their growth. Leadership and communication skills courses will not only benefit the individual employee but will also ensure the company has the best shot at building from within solid and lasting in-house talent.
Mentorship
New college grads tend to gravitate towards jobs that have robust mentoring programs. Not only with these mentors provide valuable guidance, but they’ll also serve as role models and will help demonstrate what your new grads can aspire to achieve with a little bit of hard work.
Remember, communication should go both ways in a healthy employee/employer relationship. Regularly scheduled check-in meetings can also be a huge plus for people entering the workforce. Checking in often provides structure and will help ensure new talent is staying on the right path.
Looking to hire a recent grad?
With Wavely, you can find talent easier and faster. Chat with recent grads directly and find the right talent for your team.
