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RoadMap is a private network for recent college grads embarking on their job search and early career journey.

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Lead Without a Title

As you step into your career, you may feel the urge to establish yourself immediately as a leader.

Keep in mind that true leadership goes beyond titles, it’s about the influence you cultivate. You can begin to gain that influence through actionable steps that will position you as a trusted and respected colleague.

• Forge Genuine Connections: Prioritize building authentic relationships with your coworkers. Engage in active listening and show a genuine interest in their ideas and contributions. Doing so will not only earn their trust but also help you create a supportive network to navigate your new environment.

• Take Initiative: Don’t wait for assignments to come your way. Proactively seek opportunities to contribute by volunteering for projects or proposing innovative ideas that can enhance team performance. Your initiative will showcase your commitment and set you apart as a leader, even without an official title.

• Embrace Continuous Learning: Invest in your professional growth by attending workshops, pursuing relevant training, and staying informed about industry trends. Sharing your insights with colleagues will position you as a knowledgeable resource and further amplify your influence within the team.

By actively pursuing these strategies, you can effectively cultivate your leadership skills and influence from the outset of your career. Embrace the mindset of a leader, and you’ll soon find yourself recognized as one, both in title and in practice.

Rent Struggles

Paying rent is tough!

A recent Zillow report indicates that nearly 60% of Gen Z renters (ages 18 to 27) allocate over 30% of their income to housing, spotlighting a serious crisis in the rental market, as reported by NewsNation.

Cities like San Diego and Los Angeles are particularly affected, with around 75% of young renters experiencing financial strain. Following closely are Florida cities like Orlando and Miami, where nearly 70% of renters are burdened by escalating costs.

On a brighter note, some regions are making progress. In Austin, Texas, the percentage of rent-burdened young adults has fallen from 69.2% a decade ago to 59.6% today. Gen Z renters are also doing slightly better than Millennials were at their age, with 58.6% currently feeling the burden compared to 60.2% in 2012.

These statistics highlight a significant concern, as almost half of U.S. renter households in major metro areas are facing similar difficulties. Many are turning their attention to the 2024 Presidential Election as a potential source of future relief.

Grocery Aisle Love

Recent research shows a surprising shift: many young people are turning to grocery store aisles instead of dating apps as their preferred place to meet potential partners.

Nearly half of those surveyed aged 18 to 27 said they want in-person connections while shopping, reflecting a growing frustration with online dating, as reported by the NYPost.

This trend highlights a desire for genuine interactions, with about 78% of singles favoring face-to-face encounters. As supermarkets emerge as hotspots for romance, casual shopping trips are increasingly leading to spontaneous connections.

Many are enthusiastically embracing this shift, integrating their daily errands with the chance to meet someone special. The research underscores a cultural move away from screens and a strong preference for real-world interactions.

Who knows maybe you’ll meet your next partner in Aisle 3? 🛒

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