Navigating Workplace Culture After College

College offers structure, feedback, and community. The workplace? Not always. Many graduates struggle with the shift to professional environments where feedback is less frequent and relationships span generations.

The key is adaptability. Learn to observe before reacting. Ask thoughtful questions. Build relationships with mentors and peers. And remember: it’s okay to feel out of place at first—growth takes time.

For instance, Jordan, a new hire I supported at a tech firm, said, “I felt invisible at first. But once I started asking for feedback and joining team meetings early, things changed.”

Try This: Culture Check-In 

Each week, reflect on one interaction that felt challenging or rewarding. What did you learn? What would you do differently?