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Starting Your First Job

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Entering the Workforce

So, you’re ready to enter the ranks of the working world for the first time. Congratulations! Ease your transition into the workforce with this Web guide, which will tell you where to find internships and summer jobs, pick up tips for the job application process, find advice for that first job and even get help on finding a job without a college degree. For a Spanish-language version of the Guide, click here.

Transitioning from School to Work

The transition from school to the working world can be difficult. You have to wake up early, ... read more »

Internships and Volunteer Opportunities

Many entry-level jobs require not only a degree, but also a year or two of work experience. If your ... read more »

The Job Application Process

Self-promotion may seem narcissistic and pretentious, but it’s vital in the working world. ... read more »

Starting Your First Job

Even though your first job probably won’t be your last, you still want to be happy, enjoy what you’re doing and hopefully make a decent living. The links below can show you the ins and outs of job etiquette and how to navigate workplace politics. Read on to learn how to make the transition into your first job as pleasant as possible.

Dulcinea's Insight

  • People who have already entered the workforce can be a great source of advice and guidance, and many of them post on blogs and forums. Try a blog search engine like Technorati or BlogPulse to find helpful information.
  • As always when surfing online, be careful about the information you share. Anyone can contribute to or read the discussion, so don’t give away sensitive or damaging information—especially something that you wouldn’t want a potential employer to read.

Dulcinea's Picks

For doing well at your first job …
Natavi Guides was created by Wesleyan University graduates to help students handle various college and post-college related issues. Read “Acing Your First Job…From the Start,” for some words of wisdom on how to handle those first few weeks at a new job.
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Monster.com offers a few pointers and insights on how to “Make the Most of Your First Job.” Get tips on building skills, learning about the organizational culture and getting feedback on your performance.
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CNNMoney.com confronts an issue that many recent college grads face: what do you do if your shiny new job isn’t what you expected? What if you’re not getting interesting responsibilities? Also be sure to read the articles on changing your mind after accepting a job, and the 5 major mistakes made by new graduates.
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For young women in the workforce …
Hannah Seligson is a journalist, public speaker and author of the book “New Girl On the Job: Advice from the Trenches," a collection of interviews with hundreds of women about starting their careers. Read Seligson’s blog and articles on the topic, but note that the site is a bit slow to load.
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Getting a Job Without a College Degree

There’s no question that, on average, those with college degrees make more money in the long ... read more »

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