As post-secondary students across the city take final exams and make preparations for graduation, some of them will begin looking to enter the business world.
The impressionable ones will leave town for bright and shiny opportunities elsewhere. But the ones who use good judgment will decide to stay in Prince George to make a living.
If they do stay, they will quickly recognize how supportive and encouraging this city can be for young professionals.
I've heard young, senior business leaders say that, while they may have started their jobs in entry-level positions, they quickly moved up the ranks at a rate that far exceeded their friends in large urban centres.
Not only that, but colleagues have confessed to me that they were often thrown into demanding work situations that took everything they had in them, plus some. They were trusted to take on complicated and important projects early on, not as a test but out of necessity, because labour demands were such that there was no one better suited or experienced for the work that needed to be done. Trial by fire, so they say.
Success and advancement does not come without smarts, hard work, guts and some luck.
For those who are just starting out and learning the ropes in new positions in the coming months, I offer the following words of advice based on the hundreds of conversations I've enjoyed with local business people who are constantly looking for capable and dedicated employees:
Be at work 10 minutes early. Leave work 10 minutes late. Don't be a clock puncher.
If you have to ask yourself whether a piece of clothing is suitable for the office, it probably isn't.
Save it for Saturday night with friends.
The most powerful and impressive conversations you'll ever have in the business world will begin with an introduction. Learn how to properly and confidently introduce yourself and what you do in less than one minute.
Equally important, learn how to introduce your acquaintances to one another.
Make eye contact while you shake someone's hand. Don't be scared to be the first to extend your hand and do so firmly.
This will always show confidence and interest and is rarely taken the wrong way.
If you've got time to check Facebook, Instagram or any other mobile distraction you are tempted to engage with at work, you've got time to ask for another task or responsibility. Take initiative and don't passively wait for direction.
Never publically criticize the person who signs your pay cheque.
When they call for volunteers during a staff meeting, step up to the plate first and then ask, "Who's in this with me?"
Connect with someone you respect professionally and ask them to be your mentor. Use them as a sounding board and a guiding light when you need to.
If you have to decide between a job that your feel passionate about or one that pays more money, take passion over money.
Eventually your passion will lead to greater pay and, in the meantime, you'll have a heck of a lot more fun at work.
If you are having trouble landing a job, try reverse interviews.
I'm serious about this. Two of the most interesting jobs I've ever been offered have stemmed from reverse job interviews I've done while out of work. Find three jobs you think you'd really love. Then find someone in those positions and ask to interview them as part of your career research efforts.
Most people will find this flattering and will give you an hour of their time. Always follow up with a thank you card and small gift.
Leave your contact information with them and see where this leads.
Take it easy on yourself.
It's okay to try a variety of things and find your strengths while you do.
Focus more on building your network because the stronger and broader it is, the more job prospects will come to you without even having to apply for a position.
Good luck to the class of 2016!
May we be so lucky as to keep you in Prince George as you begin your career.
Until next week, stay in the black and keep coming back.
