This week is entirely dedicated to the graduating class of 2011. Those new grads who are saying so long to college and saying hello to the “real world”.
Today I’m sharing a couple of the most important lessons: First, the importance of learning, and why you must focus on continuing to learn – which may seem like the last thing you want to do after cramming for exams and pulling all nighters. But, in short, if you’re not learning, and continuing to learn, you’re going to fall behind the rest of your peers who are going the extra mile, and more importantly, you’re going to miss out on a ton of opportunities.
The next piece of wisdom? Network like crazy. Set up coffee dates, send emails, read blogs, follow people on Twitter and Facebook – don’t get all stalker-like, but do everything you can to learn from those who have come before you – especially those people who are doing things you’d like to be doing, or working for a company you absolutely love.
Don’t approach every encounter as an opportunity to pitch yourself – instead, focus on simply learning and growing as an individual – express genuine interest in what others are doing. That enthusiasm and excitement is incredibly attractive to those who may be looking to hire – and in the process, you’ll build your network and make some great friends.
Below are a few people I highly recommend reaching out to and connecting with today. Right now. All of whom I respect immensely, are doing great things, and will not steer you wrong.
- Jenny Blake. Author of Life After College
- Jenn Krenn and Jill Felska, Founders of DreamChamps
- Sam Davidson, Founder of Cool People Care, author, speaker, friend, and my partner-in-crime at Proof
- Rebecca Thorman, Founder of Kontrary (a blog revolutionizing what it means to offer premium content)
- Rich DeMatteo, HR guru and co-founder of Bad Rhino. Also, one of the best guys I know.
- Nicole Crimaldi, Marketing Manager at YouSwoop and long time friend
- Srvinias Rao, founder of BlogCastFM and the Skool of Life
- Sarah Bray, amazing designer, innovator and entrepreneur
And of course, don’t hesitate to reach out and get in touch with me. I would be more than happy to set up a time to chat, share some advices, and/or bounce ideas around…
Watch the video for more about learning and networking, and stay tuned tomorrow for another installment of 2011 Grad Week.
Can’t see the video? Click here.