Entering the job market after college graduation can be a stressful time. Between discovering the industry, making connections, and managing interviews, navigating the variables can be a difficult time for anyone. In today’s episode of the Be Better Podcast, Donald is joined by two Gen Z college students, Mackenzie Carnahan and Junior Germain, to learn how they’ve set themselves up for post-college success entering the job market (and how you can, too.)

Concerns for the business world in today’s economy:

• Inflation, gas prices, and the housing market are changing each day, and accounting for these variables can make it difficult for early-stage career professionals to actively save for their financial goals.
• It’s easy to enter the job market feeling like you aren’t worthy of your position. However, take note of your place in your career and be willing to ask questions to learn more.

From a Gen Z perspective: What is important when entering the job market?

• Job stability. Finding a position that offers the employee peace of mind and the ability to save for their future endeavors.
• Growth opportunities. Young professionals want to work in a company that encourages opportunities to move forward in their careers.
• To build trust with an employer, college students fear the idea of “networking.” However, setting yourself up for success means putting yourself out there and being willing to interact with others in the industry.
•  At an internship, shadow, or interview, take note of the company culture and try to emulate it to build rapport and show initiative to those around you.

Move past the belief that you’ll find your dream job immediately after college.

• There’s pressure for students to have the perfect location and job lined up, often months before college.
• The pay will come. In many instances, a position that offers more learning opportunities might be more impactful than a position that pays more. 

Parting thoughts on the job market:

• Figuring out what you want to do and what’s out there isn’t a journey that ends at college; give yourself the time and opportunity to determine your passions, no matter how long that takes.
• The future of the job market is veering away from the traditional job market – remote work, four-day workweeks, and hybrid jobs that accommodate your lifestyle are becoming more common. 

Mackenzie’s and Junior’s parting advice? Step out of your comfort zone and take risks. You’re better than you think you are, and you have more opportunities than you might think.

Be Better Episode Resources:

• Follow our host, Donald Kelly, on Instagram and Tik Tok. 
• Connect with Mackenzie and Junior on LinkedIn.
• Like, subscribe, and listen to the Be Better podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, and anywhere else podcasts can be found.

You can help build a better world.

Help Better Homes and Gardens fight homelessness across the world by donating at bhgre.com/newstory. With a goal to raise $100,000 by the end of 2022, your contributions will go directly to supporting those affected and helping build a world with homes for everyone.

This episode is brought to you in part by Better Homes and Gardens® Real Estate.

Looking for a new role that allows you to become your own boss, create your own schedule, and have excellent income potential without the headache of starting a new business? Become an agent with Better Homes and Gardens® Real Estate, an American icon trusted in all things related to the home. Explore career options at bhgrecareer.com/.