“I AM…BORED!” by Nicola Christoffersen
Graduates who are new to the working world often face difficulties in adjusting to the work environment. During the adjustment and learning phase, it is natural to feel nervous; particularly while the work-load is low.
During these times, they key is not to get disheartened. One of the biggest challenges faced by new employees is a feeling of boredom. Boredom can simply be a mis-communication between employer and employee. Like any relationship, expectations need to be made clear from the outset. From the first few days in a business, both parties need to be clear about what they each expect from the other.
If you are new to a company, the first thing to demonstrate is a positive working attitude. Attidue is everything. Many skills can be taught, and employers will enjoy teaching a willing participant. The “go-getter” is likely to receive extra investment from an employer, often because they are vocal about their needs. Proactivity is key.
ProGrad have placed thousands of graduates over the years and we’re graduate employers ourselves. “Graduates require constant stimulation and fresh challanges. I don’t believe they get bored easily, however they do require some clear goals to achieve. More importantly than that, there needs to be a level of reward upon achieving those goals”. Davinia Noble, General Manager, ProGrad Pty Ltd
“Most employers recognise the value in recruiting young talent into the workforce, and are willing to invest heavily in the long term development and success of those individuals. That said, it is essential that candidates are being proactive in driving their own careers. Boredom is unacceptable in the workforce. If you’re bored, then change it. Take initiative, speak to your manager and set new personal and professional goals. Take a proactive and positive approach to changing the way you feel in the office environment”, Davinia adds.
Here are a few tips if you want to kick boredom in the workforce:
1) Be proactive and organise a time to meet with your manager to ask for more responsibilities
2) Set clear and defined goals to achieve and allocate time frames in which you would like to achieve them
3) During face to face meetings with management, approach them with clear, well considered plans which you would like to achieve. Most employers will be impressed by these actions and will assist to prepare something more formal ongoing.
4) Don’t dwell on it. Boredom is an attitude.
If you would like to speak to ProGrad about any of these suggestions, please contact the Graduate 
Management Team on 02 8235 8300
Alternatively, you can email info@prograd.com.au
