From Business School to the Business World: Making the Transition

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Getting ready to make the jump from the classroom to the business world? Here are some tips to help you make a smooth transition.

Dress for Success
When you begin a new job, be sure to dress appropriately. For men, this means a jacket and tie. Women should wear a suit or a conservative dress. Don’t assume there is a casual Friday. Let your supervisor tell you if you are overdressing. Even if the workplace is casual, keep a set of nice professional clothes nearby in case you have to meet with important clients or supervisors.

Arrive on Time
Being punctual demonstrates that you plan on taking a job seriously. Plan to arrive each morning a few minutes before the actual start time. If you know you’re going to be late or sick, notify someone immediately.

Be a Team Player
Successful businesses are made up of quality employees who work together toward a common goal. Show your boss that you are a team player. Demonstrate how your skills are an asset to the team you are assigned to. Before long, you’ll see your responsibilities increase. You may even be leading your own team.

Show You Can Be a Leader
Companies need effective leaders. Being a leader doesn’t always mean that you’re giving other people orders. You need to know how to lead regardless of your position or place in a company. Even if you are the lowest employee in the chain-of-command, look for opportunities to show leadership potential.

Be Willing to Learn
Proving yourself and paying dues is a reality of the business world. No one starts at the top. Be prepared to show what you’re capable of and people will take notice. Complete every task and job with enthusiasm.

Learn How to Speak to Others
Business has its own language. Chances are you’ll be working with professionals from several different areas. Learn the ins and outs of different areas such as accounting, finance and marketing, and you’ll be able to work with professionals from all areas of expertise.

Avoid Personal Distractions
Turn off your cell phone during the day. Avoid checking your personal e-mail account. Try to limit personal calls on your desk phone. It’s best to conduct personal business outside of work.

Monitor Your E-mail
Avoid sending or forwarding vulgar, lewd and off-color e-mails. Instruct your family and friends to send any correspondence to a personal e-mail account. Remember, most companies monitor employee’s e-mail accounts.

Expand Your Skills
Even though you already have a business degree, you may find yourself in a position where you need to increase your knowledge in a particular area. Graduate-level certificates and similar professional programs allow you to learn the basics of new areas of business. Explore opportunities to learn new abilities.

Build Your Network
It’s not always what you know, but sometimes who you know too. Professional contacts can open doors and get you interviews. How do you find these contacts? Through networking with professors, fellow students and alumni of whatever business school you attend. Many professionals were once in your shoes and are more than willing to help you out. Take advantage of mixers and social networking events to build your own base of contacts.