Your First Three Years Out of College

What to Expect Once You Launch Your Career

After four years of frat parties, lecture halls and flexible schedules, it can be difficult to adjust to simply going to work. That said, there's no reason not to continue to have fun while learning lots. Take your first few years out to really learn what you'd like to do. "You should be open to all sorts of opportunities," says Abby Kohut, a career coach for recent college grads and president of Staffing Symphony.

Here's what to expect during the first three years of starting your career:

Graduation

Not everyone can expect to land a decent-paying job during their senior year of college. And as the number of companies participating in large-scale recruiting decreases, it's likely that your graduation won't automatically result in a job.

Instead, be proactive and take advantage of the opportunities for informational interviews (many managers will happily accept a meeting with a recent grad). Meeting with people who are pursuing your desired career path can help build your network and is a good way to find out about what the career entails and possible job openings.

Taking an unpaid internship can also help you get a foot in the door after graduation, says Sara Collins, a career and life coach. "The entry level job market is very tight, and many employers are looking for two years of experience," Collins says.

Year One

Once you've landed the job, most employers look for enthusiasm and communication skills as top priorities. No one expects you to be an expert right out of college. Instead it's better to stay humble and demonstrate that you're willing to learn – even if that means putting in unpaid overtime.

Also, don't focus on your title or first position (which can be less than ideal if you're just starting out); instead make sure the company is a place where you'd like to build your career. "The goal is to find a job in a company that can offer you growth potential and the ability to try different things," Kohut says. "For example, if you start as a marketing assistant and then realize you'd like to try human resources, it would be helpful if you could apply for that opportunity in your current company."

Year Two

After you've settled into your role, it's time to think about your next steps. Consider whether "you [made] the right choice in your company and in your career path," Kohut says. "If you are enjoying what you are doing and believe you made the right choice, seek out a mentor who can help you grow within your chosen field."

If you're not in an area where you're eager to stay, take time to explore alternate career paths within your company. Moving within your company is the easiest way to make a career shift. Two years out of school is also still an ideal time to completely start over. Many businesses are always looking for new additions that command relatively low wages (even though your prior experience may not be taken into account).

Year Three

A few years in the workplace can be a good time to reassess your goals. If you're looking to stay within your career, it's an important time to build leadership skills, Kohut says. "At this point, you may be ready for an entry-level management or supervisory role," she says. Offering to head-up a project at work or even taking on a volunteer role that helps you build your leadership skills is worthwhile. Either way, it's essential that your resume reflect this type of career progression for your next job.

If you're ready for more education, many graduate programs are eager for applicants who have had a few years of experience. This can also be a time to find your niche and become more specialized within your industry. Need a change of pace? Consider taking an assignment abroad while staying within your company, international experience is always a plus for your career.

Even after more than three years since graduation, it can seem like your career is not yet established. But you should be well on your way to building a professional network of contacts who can help define your career. Each year, take time to really think about the next steps. Working on new projects and taking on new roles will help prevent a career rut and help you to stay open to new opportunities. "You have lessons to learn and mistakes to make, and this it the perfect time to do it," Kohut says.