Don't Be Lazy : A Message to Gen Z Grads

Students often come to me with the burning question, "How can I truly make an impression in the world of social media when I'm on the job hunt?" In university, my go-to answer was, "Your online presence is everything." But over time, I've come to realize there's more to the story. Yes, building a solid online profile and having the relevant knowledge for your dream job is vital, but the real game-changer is the actual work you put in.

After leaving UWI, I got the opportunity to do some side jobs with a Public Relations firm and the Principal was impressed with my work. It was a place I’ve been considering for full time work. I had a one-on-one with the boss and they shared that my work ethic is extremely different from other recent graduates they’d encountered. I was a bit confused, because for some reason I thought that everyone took work as seriously as I did. I thought that the principle of doing quality work always, and showing up and showing out, was a universal one.?

Similarly when I started a job at a marketing agency, management had a lot of problems with recent grads who were not able to perform at a particular level. It’s not that they could not do the work, they just could not deal with having to do it “properly’.”?

On the other hand, Gen Z prioritizes flexibility and work-life balance differently, but in my opinion, this leads to them having decreased motivation and commitment to their jobs. This is something however that they need to work on individually to really stand out in a crowded job market.?

There is also a clear disconnect with their expectations and reality for work. I know, because this was me when I started working full time. I was annoyed with having to do “so much work.” And while you get a pass if you mess up an assignment for school, in the real work - working with real clients, that won’t be the case, and that gets frustrating a lot. But we need to understand how to deal with this and manage our expectations so that we can succeed.

Then how can you stand out? Here are some tips :?

• Adaptability: Embracing your innate ability to adapt swiftly to changing environments and circumstances is key. Open yourself to new learning opportunities and challenges, showcasing your willingness to step outside your comfort zone and acquire new skills, which in turn positions you as a versatile and valuable asset within any organization.
• Innovative Thinking: Foster your creative problem-solving abilities and entrepreneurial spirit. Actively seek opportunities to propose fresh ideas, offer unique perspectives on existing challenges, and contribute to the development of innovative solutions, showcasing your proactive and forward-thinking approach to your work and projects.
• Tech-Savvy Skills: Your natural affinity for technology provides you with a competitive edge. By staying informed about the latest technological advancements and digital tools, you can effectively navigate the demands of the modern workplace, demonstrating your proficiency in handling diverse digital tasks.
• Continuous Learning: Prioritize your personal and professional growth by actively seeking out opportunities for self-improvement. Engage in mentorship programs, attend industry-relevant workshops and seminars, and consider pursuing additional educational certifications to demonstrate your commitment to continuous learning and development, ultimately positioning yourself as a dedicated and dynamic professional within the ever-evolving global workforce.
• Work Ethic: Display a strong work ethic and a proactive attitude toward tasks and responsibilities. Demonstrate your dedication and commitment by consistently delivering high-quality work, meeting deadlines, and going the extra mile when needed, showcasing your reliability and diligence as a valuable team member.

By infusing these tips into your lifestyle, as recent graduates or Uni students, you can bridge the gap between your expectations and the reality of the professional world, making you an invaluable asset in the competitive job market.