Welcome to RoadMap!

RoadMap is the go-to community for recent college grads embarking on their job search and early career journey.

🎮 Did you know? On July 9th, 1981, Nintendo released the arcade game ‘Donkey Kong’, and introduced the world to Mario, one of the most iconic characters in video game history. Just like Mario's adventures, your career journey is full of challenges and rewards. RoadMap is here to help you power up your skills and navigate your path to success in the job market.

Discover how RoadMap can help you land your dream job by visiting our website today. 🚀

Stay connected with us on LinkedIn and Instagram for today's insights, tips, and exclusive events designed to boost your career.

Let’s go! 💪

Crush That Interview 💼

Preparing for your first job interview can be thrilling yet daunting.

It’s time to show off your skills and personality by thoroughly researching the company. Make sure to explore their social media, recent news, and industry trends to impress your interviewer.

To boost your confidence, practice mock interviews so you can articulate your strengths and experiences clearly. Dress slightly more formally than normal to look sharp and arrive at least 15 minutes early to demonstrate punctuality. Here’s your checklist:

1. 🌐 Research: Dive into the company’s social media, latest news, and business challenges.

2. 🗣️ Practice: Master common questions to showcase your skills and experiences

3. 👔 Dress Code: Opt for a polished look above their standard work attire.

4. ⏰ Punctuality: Plan your route well in advance and aim to arrive early.

Remember, an interview is not just about answering questions — it’s your opportunity to ask insightful ones about the job and company culture. Preparation and a positive mindset will set you up for success. Good luck!

The Soft Skills Gap

College graduates are stepping into a job market full of opportunities.

Despite navigating four years of partly remote classes and uncertain futures, their prospects look promising, possibly even better than those of pre-pandemic graduates, as reported by Fortune. Their adaptability, honed through unconventional schooling, sets them apart, although there are concerns about their soft skills.

Soft skills — like communication, teamwork, and problem-solving — are crucial interpersonal abilities for effective workplace interactions and collaboration.

Recent findings from Resume Genius show that nearly half of hiring managers and supervisors find Gen Z challenging in terms of collaboration and communication, often citing limited in-person internships during their education.

Matthew Saxon, Chief People Officer at Zoom and highlighted in the Fortune article, emphasized the importance of structured quarterly check-ins to foster personal growth for Gen Z. These sessions align priorities, drive success, and nurture development, helping young professionals understand the impact of their work.

As graduates transition into the workforce, mastering soft skills becomes crucial. Make these skills a focal point for personal development as you prepare for interviews and your first job.

Gen Z's ‘Quiet’ Escapes

Welcome to the peak of summer — a time synonymous with travel and relaxation. Alongside the tranquility of late December, this season also marks a surge in out-of-office notifications flooding your inbox.

For many Gen Z workers, traditional vacations are taking a back seat to a rising trend: "quiet vacationing," as highlighted by insights from Fast Company.

Around the Fourth of July, over half of Gen Z professionals opted for these understated getaways, seeking solace from the everyday pressures of work and the anxiety of requesting time off from their bosses.

A recent Babbel survey found that 69% of Gen Z travelers have also adjusted or canceled their plans due to anxiety and a feeling of being unprepared. Social media amplifies these stresses, with 41% feeling pressured to curate flawless vacation content, often resulting in spontaneous changes or cancellations.

These trends reflect broader economic uncertainties and job insecurities, making quiet vacations a cherished escape from professional stress and the relentless demands of digital life.

Whether you're planning a serene retreat or gearing up for an exciting adventure, take a moment to relax, recharge, and embrace the laid-back summer vibes. Here's to discovering your own slice of vacation paradise! 😎🌞