I AM…
April 22, 2010 by ProGrad · Leave a Comment
“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
Boredom can kill you!
March 15, 2010 by Nicola · Leave a Comment
Have you got the boredom disease? It’s quite common in the workforce. I have read many blogs about employees bitching how bored they are and I even came across an article that said boredom increases heart problems and quickens death.
But have you ever thought that boredom is a curse you overcome just by being proactive? Maybe it’s time we all took our mothers advice, when we were young complaining of boredom, THERE IS PLENTY TO DO!
Here are a few tips if you want to kick boredom in the workforce and live that little bit longer!
Be proactive. It’s time to take your dear mothers advice. If you feel like you have run out of things to do in the office, ask for more. I’m sure your boss would love to offload some work and it will also give you brownie points in “taking initiative.”
Lack of motivation can also contribute to boredom. Ways to combat this can be to find inspiration about what you do or in the colleagues around you. Set yourself goals and give yourself rewards when you have reached these goals. For example: If you finish a particular task in time shout yourself lunch or speak to that guy/girl that you have always wanted to.
Give yourself variety. Instead of focusing on one set task for hours, start something else and come back to it. This way each task will be fresh and new.
Make the work enjoyable! Find something to be excited about and look forward to in the workplace. If you like going to work, chances are you will like the work and it will be a more enjoyable experience all over.
Teamed with these tips and a willingness to improve and seek out new tasks, you will succeed in beating the boredom bug!
RARE GRADUATE MEDIA OPPORTUNITY!
March 8, 2010 by Nicola · Leave a Comment
RARE GRADUATE MEDIA OPPORTUNITY!
We have the perfect opportunity for an ambitious graduate to get their foot in the door of a large media organization.
Our client is the largest operator of regional newspapers, radio broadcasting and outdoor advertising in Australasia.
They are looking for a graduate who is passionate about the media sector to come on board their team.
The company’s culture is vibrant, exciting and focused on team work. Being results-oriented and customer focused, they are looking for someone who has a winning attitude.
The position will involve:
· Build and maintain relationships
· Prospecting and developing sales leads
· Be responsible for collecting booking confirmations
· Take responsibility for keeping content up to date
Skills that will make you successful in this role;
· Self – motivated
· Confident
· Shows initiative
· Passionate about the media sector
· Has a willingness to learn
· Works well in a team
· And is keen for progression
If you are keen to get into the media sector, don’t miss out on this opportunity and apply now!
You can apply by visiting our website: www.prograd.com.au or emailing your CV directly to nicola.christoffersen@prograd.com.au
Self promotion - how to do it effectively
February 17, 2010 by Nicola · Leave a Comment
Self-Promotion is important in any interview and can effect the way you perform in the interview and also the outcome of the interview. Here are some tips on how to effectively self promote yourself.
- First impressions count!
The first 30 seconds are vital when in an interview. Here you have the opportunity to create a powerful impression. It is important to have a good, steady handshake when you meet the potential employer. As is making eye contact and smiling. First impressions always leave a lasting impression.
- Close the interview
It is important to close the interview with Questions. This way the employer will know you are interested for the role. Here is an example of some questions you can ask:
- How many other prople are you considering/interviewing for this position?
- How do you think I went in the interview? Am I likely to get a second interview?
- Follow up!
Take the initiative and find out how you went in the interview. This way you will be a stand out candidate. Again you will seem eager for the position and passionate about what they can offer you.
Always be confident and passionate about the role you have applied for. Show the employer how hungry you are for the position.
If you would like to know more about ProGrad and what we offer visit us at: www.prograd.com.au or contact us directly on (02) 8235 8300