The Smart Spin

# 18 Summary of "Getting From College To Career" by Lindsey Pollak

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This episode we discuss about the "Getting from College to Career Revised Edition" by Lindsey Pollak. She is sharing her personal experiences and provides advice for young people transitioning from college to their first jobs. She emphasizes the importance of taking action, trying new things, and networking to gain experience and find the right career path. There several key strategies that she is discussing, such as networking, attending career fairs, and reading the news regularly, as well as the importance of organization and utilizing available resources, like career services offices. Pollak's message encourages young people to embrace their own journey and not be afraid to make mistakes while they explore their options.

The book focuses on bridging the gap between college and professional life, offering practical advice for navigating the job search process and building a successful career.

Main Themes:

  1. The Importance of Action: The most recurring theme is the emphasis on taking action. Pollak stresses that sitting and thinking alone won't lead to career success. Instead, she advocates for actively exploring opportunities, trying new things, meeting people, and gaining experience.

    2. "Jobs don't just come to you, career plans don't grow on trees... you have to get out there and see what exists, what's possible, what's calling your name."

    1. Networking is Key: Pollak highlights the significance of building and maintaining relationships. From career fairs and alumni networks to chance encounters at Rotary Club meetings, every interaction is a potential opportunity.

      2. "Success came from a combination of factors, actions, and connections. The challenge is that you never know which combination will ultimately work, so you have to try them all."

      1. Utilizing Available Resources: The author urges students to utilize readily available resources, particularly college career services offices. She highlights the benefits of assessments, resume critiques, mock interviews, networking events, and alumni connections, often offered for free.

        2. "Don't ignore the obvious... I guarantee you will benefit from taking advantage of at least one, if not all of the following services..."

        1. Overcoming Negative Stereotypes: Pollak acknowledges the negative perception surrounding Generation Y in the workforce (lazy, entitled, etc.) and encourages graduates to overcome this by being hardworking, respectful, and well-mannered.

          2. "If most people, job interviewers especially, believe that young people are lazy, entitled, and rude, then you can really stand out by being hardworking, respectful, and well-mannered."

          1. The Value of Preparation and Organization: The book stresses the importance of being organized throughout the job search. This includes maintaining a career planning notebook, a digital filing system, an updated calendar, a contact database, and backup systems for important documents.

            2. "The most important message about being organized with your career planning and job searching is to develop a system that works for you."

            Important Facts and Statistics:

            • Average job search time for graduates: 7.74 months (NACE 2011 survey)
            • Percentage of graduates moving back home: 80% (collegegrad.com)
            • Average number of jobs in a lifetime: 12-15 (Forester Research)
            • Lifetime earnings difference between college and high school graduates: 75% more (US Census Bureau)

              • Notable Quotes:

              • "There are no mistakes, and even a job that seems to have been a mistake or a bad fit can lead you to the next step." - Cali Williams Yost
              • "I wish I knew earlier in my career that working hard would not contribute to my long-term success as much as building lifelong professional relationships based on trust and mutual respect." - Dr. Lois P. Frankel
              • "To keep the contact information of everyone you ever meet anywhere with notes." - Carlin Sloan

                • Overall, the book offers a realistic and encouraging perspective on the transition from college to career. By embracing action, leveraging resources, networking effectively, and being organized and prepared, graduates can increase their chances of finding a fulfilling and successful career path.


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                The Smart SpinBy lazybutt