Supporting New Graduates on their First Graduate Role

Doesn’t the beginning of September feel like a new school year? Of course readers with school age or university age children are aware of the “Back to School” vibe with hope, anticipation, (dread in some cases) and excitement about what is ahead.?

But for many other people, September is the time for refocusing after the summer. Certainly I have found many people take a holiday before or after the Bank Holiday in the United Kingdom; then they start back at work rested and energised. In our minds it is like a new school year and a chance to renew focus until the end of the calendar year.

There is, however, one group who are starting new roles that might not have the best support.? These are new graduates, starting their first graduate roles. These could be graduate trainee roles, professional trainee roles for professional qualifications – such as lawyers, accountants and surveyors. There are also ‘first graduate jobs’. These new graduates are COVID generation graduates; many of whom missed out on the usual “University Experience”, with a significant amount of studying online. This fabulous talent needs extra support. It is so easy, as more experienced individuals, to forget the challenges of starting a graduate role with colleagues of all ages. Different expectations from university and the concern that you wish to make a positive impression. Also, many organisations are working in a hybrid work environment, so there are less opportunities to ‘learn on the job’ by watching more experienced colleagues. This generation are ready to meet others; develop their skills and socialise after work.??

The most recent Live Streamed discussion was with a new graduate: Nick Simon, who happens to be my son! He has asked some of his friends what information and support they need when starting their first graduate role. These included:

• Double checking working hours, location (hybrid, remote or office-based) and responsibilities
• What the progression track is for the role (i.e. if it is a professional trainee role, what opportunities are there for fully qualified professionals)
• They highlighted the importance of having opportunities to be welcomed with socials – not exclusively with other graduate trainees; having a mentor to support them
• The chance to be able to ask questions; sometimes new employees, especially younger employees find it challenging to ask specific questions about the contracts and work conditions.
• They all believed receiving a PC/Laptop preloaded with the software and direct help for onboarding onto the company systems, essential. Clearly, these were omitted when the new graduates had started.

There are lots more observations that they have made. You can watch the live streamed session here:

Watch the live stream.

Here at SuperStar Communicator, we offer a range of lunch and learn speeches, workshops and masterclasses to inspire new talent.

https://superstarcommunicator.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/Next-Generation-Talent-Workshops.pdf

Finally, because it is a “Back to School” feel at the beginning of September, I am offering one reader the chance to accompany me to an exhibition at the world-famous Victoria and Albert Museum in Kensington, London. I am a member and also have access to the members’ dining room which is rather wonderful. You would have to make your own travel arrangements but we would be able to see an exhibition of your choice, and then we can chat over coffee. If you would like to be considered for this offer, PRESS RETURN and email me back. More details of the exhibitions at the V&A for your interest here.

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