From student to professional: 7 tips for the big step

As a final-year student, you are about to receive your diploma  and exchange the familiar campus for the workplace. Exciting, right? Perhaps you are eagerly looking forward to it, or are you already getting stressed at the word job application? Don't worry: the transition from student to professional takes some getting used to for everyone. These tips from Antje Mentens, manager at recruitment specialist Robert Walters, will help you make the leap in a way that suits you.

1. Let go of your student identity (but not too much)

The freedom of student life is gradually giving way to a life with more structure and responsibility. “But that doesn't mean you suddenly have to reinvent yourself as a boring and serious adult,” Antje explains. “Your fresh perspective, curiosity and eagerness to learn are precisely the things that are valuable. Combine those assets with a professional attitude: arriving on time, communicating clearly, showing initiative. It's that mix that makes you strong as a starter.”

2. Know your capabilities

Antje: "Employers don't expect you to be able to do everything already. But they do expect you to know yourself. What are you good at? What gives you energy? And what do you still want to learn? If you can clearly identify both your strengths and your learning points, you will radiate self-confidence without bluffing."

3. Networking is more than handing out business cards

To many, “networking” sounds like something for slick salespeople in tailored suits, but in reality it is simply about connecting with people. "Start with people around you: fellow students, internship supervisors, teachers... Show genuine interest, ask questions, and who knows where such a conversation might lead," advises Antje.

4. Keep investing in yourself

"Graduation is not an end point, it is a starting point," Antje stresses. "The working world is changing at lightning speed - new tools, new insights, new ways of working. So look out for opportunities to keep growing: take training courses, attend a webinar, read articles or listen to an inspiring podcast. But above all: learn from the people around you and seize opportunities to grow. Every step you take builds your professional profile."

5. Choose a job that suit you - not just your degree

Your degree opens doors, but it does not determine your entire future. You might notice after a while that your interest lies in something your education said little about - and that's totally okay. 

Antje: "Dare to think outside the box. Look at your talents, your interests, your values. Does a creative job suit you? Or do you feel better in a structured environment? Your career is not a straight line - it is a course with side roads, curves, and the occasional U-turn. And that's just what makes it fascinating."

6. Ask questions: many and without hesitation

As a newcomer to the workplace, you get a lot on your plate in a short space of time. Fortunately, everyone around you knows that you are still at the beginning of your career - no one expects you to master everything right away. "Daring to ask questions is not a sign of insecurity or incompetence, but rather of commitment and eagerness to learn," says Antje. "It's a way of showing that you want to learn, grow and consciously avoid mistakes. So: ask that question, ask for feedback, and learn a little every day."

7. Be proud of your trajectory

You have already come a long way: years of studying, making choices, developing yourself - and you may even have completed an internship or student job. Consciously reflect on your progress and take time to celebrate these milestones. This will help you take the next step more confidently.

There is no manual on how to 'become a professional'. You grow into it naturally - with trial and error and a lot of learning.

Give yourself time, be kind to yourself, and remember: even the most experienced colleagues were once rookies," concludes Antje.

Interested?

Check out our latest cash & credit collection jobs. Do you have questions about the skills required for a job as a cash collector or would you like to know more about opportunities for you? Contact one of our offices.