Wednesday, May 23, 2007

New Grads: 3 things they don't teach you in school

Congratulations, graduates! Now your real education begins. Here are three of the most important secrets to success in real life that they didn't teach you in school.
1 - You can't get there alone. Start strengthening your relationships now, before you really need them later.
In the classroom it was mostly about your individual performance. But even if you graduated Summa Cum Laude from the Ivy League, success in real life will require relationships. Who you know determines how effectively you can apply what you know.
So stay in touch. This is a perfect time to send an email to everyone that you and your family know to update them on your accomplishments, what your goals are for the future, and what kind of help you could use.
2 - There's more than one valedictorian in real life. You'll succeed by helping others succeed, too.
In school everyone's striving for the same honor. But with so many different paths available in real life, you'll get further by helping others achieve their dreams, too, rather than trying to outdo them.
If you're starting college, look for ways to help your classmates succeed in your new surroundings. Form study groups. Share your research on potential career paths. If you're starting your first job, maybe you could help your new boss's child with college admissions advice.

3 - Advisors will not be assigned to you. You should actively seek your own mentors.
Your college may have provided an academic advisor from the time you first set foot on campus. However, once you step off campus, it's your responsibility to find the guidance you need. Start connecting with people you respect who can help you get a leg up in each aspect of your life, personal and professional. Make it as easy and convenient as possible for them to talk with you, and always look for ways to contribute to their success, too.
Excerpts taken from Keith Ferrazzi's, author of 'Never Eat Alone'
http://keithferrazzi.com

Keith Ferrazzi is a great motivational speaker and coach. I highly recommend his book "Never Eat Alone" as well as subscribing to his email tips. Here is a summary from