Ask SMART Questions: Key Insights for SUCCESS

Plus: A Go-To Marketplace & "Sober Curious"

Welcome to RoadMap!

RoadMap is your go-to private network for recent college grads embarking on their job search and early career journey.

šŸŽ¤ Did you know? On August 6th, 2018, Travis Scott released his groundbreaking album "Astroworld," which quickly became a cultural phenomenon and redefined modern hip-hop.

Just as "Astroworld" reshaped the music landscape and inspired a generation, RoadMap is here to revolutionize your career journey. We're guiding you to achieve your professional goals and excel in your field, just like innovative music keeps pushing boundaries.

Explore how RoadMap can guide you towards your ideal career path by visiting our website today. šŸ’„

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Ask Sharp Questions

Nail your interview with killer questions. šŸŽÆ

For recent graduates entering the job market, knowing the right questions to ask during an interview is crucial. Certain questions might unintentionally paint you in a negative light, while more thoughtfully phrased alternatives can demonstrate your genuine interest in the company and the role.

  • āŒ Donā€™t ask: How long would it take me to get promoted?

  • āœ… Instead ask: Can you tell me more about the companyā€™s process for supporting employee growth?

This alternative suggests you're eager to understand how the company fosters professional development, rather than appearing solely focused on personal advancement.

  • āŒ Donā€™t ask: Do you like working here?

  • āœ… Instead ask: Can you tell me what a typical day in this role might look like?

By asking about a typical day, you show that you're already envisioning yourself in the position, which can provide a more realistic view of the job's daily demands.

  • āŒ Donā€™t ask: How many days per week do you require your employees to come into the office?

  • āœ… Instead ask: Whatā€™s your organizationā€™s preferred balance between in-person and remote work?

This question helps you understand the company's policies on work flexibility, without implying you're looking to avoid in-office work.

  • āŒ Donā€™t ask: How often are employees required to work outside of normal business hours?

  • āœ… Instead ask: Can you tell me a little bit about the culture of the team Iā€™d be joining?

Focusing on team culture gives you insight into work-life balance and the environment you'll be working in, showing you care about fitting in well with the team.

By asking these thoughtfully phrased questions, recent graduates can demonstrate genuine interest in the company and role, portraying themselves as proactive and considerate candidates focused on long-term growth and team integration.

The Go-To Marketplace

Furnishing first apartments easily. šŸ›‹ļø

Facebook Marketplace is quickly becoming the go-to spot for young adults hunting for great deals, helping Meta attract a younger audience. Recent grads, in particular, are using the platform to find affordable items for their first apartments, according to Business Insider.

CEO Mark Zuckerberg knows Facebook isnā€™t the favorite among teenagers and young adults, who mostly prefer Snapchat, Instagram, and TikTok. But with features like Marketplace, Facebook is regaining some of its original audience.

The platform offers a secure way to buy and sell locally, appealing to young adults' love for thrifting and secondhand finds. Social media analysts believe Marketplaceā€™s unique positioning also sets it apart from other competitors.

Gen Z users are increasingly turning to Marketplace to furnish their living spaces and refresh their wardrobes at low prices. Despite occasional scams, most postings are safe, making Facebook Marketplace a vital tool in Meta's strategy.

And it's also a fantastic way to furnish your new apartment with style and savings!

A ā€œSoberā€ Shift

Young adults choosing healthier lifestyles. ā˜•

Young adults are swapping bars for coffeehouses, community theaters, and volunteer work, signaling a shift away from boozy culture.

This movement among young people stems from rising awareness of alcohol dangers, prompting many to seek healthier, more fulfilling activities, according to reporting by Fortune.

Research from Gallup confirms this trend: fewer 18 to 34-year-olds are drinking regularly, with interest growing in movements like "dry January" and "sober curious." Factors such as health consciousness and economic concerns are also contributing to this change.

Many businesses are being forced to adapt by providing non-alcoholic beverages. Athletic Brewing is one such company, offering alcohol-free beers that cater to the health-savvy crowd.

This shift not only saves money but also boosts overall well-being, reflecting a broader trend toward a healthier, sober lifestyle. šŸŗ