Drew McLellan wants to
know what
advice we have for new college graduates.
What wisdom could we
(cough, cough) veterans offer to help new grads get off to a great start?
I think it’s a noble cause
and encourage you to visit Drew and add your perspective. I did.
But I’d like you to
consider this as well.
What can we learn from the
new grads that will be in our midst?
They may have a different
outlook on life and on work than we do.
They might not view
themselves as we view them.
They may have a lot to
learn. But we have a lot to learn too!
I could say that they’re
our future. They’re the future of our companies and the future of our markets, but
that’s only part of the story.
We’re part of the future
too.
Understanding and valuing
generational and experiential differences will make us all smarter and
stronger.
Neither youth nor
experience is the silver bullet.
We need
both!
So please be open to, and
excited by, their contributions.
Guide them when you can –
but don’t be afraid to be guided by them as well.
That’s great advice, Claire! I did two internships and they were priceless.
Thanks!
I recommend that college students pursue as many internships as they can possibly handle during their college years.
I always tease my husband that when my kids are all grown and gone I’m going to adopt a teen ager to keep in touch with what’s going on in their world and what might hit me next!
New grads and interns at work are an even better education than that! (They’re not on my car insurance)
Ann,
Great point! We (me, not you!) old dogs can certainly learn a trick or two.
I’ve always loved having interns and recent grads in the office. They have a fresh way of looking at things that brings a new perspective to our work.
And that is never a bad plan!
Drew