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RoadMap is the membership community recent college grads lean on to find their first job and launch their careers.

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Show Me the Money!

Ready to get paid? It’s time to talk turkey and get what you're worth, even for your first job!

Negotiating your salary can feel like stepping into a boxing ring, but with the right moves, you can knock out those jitters and come out on top. Gone are the days of new grads meekly accepting their first job offer — it’s time to master the art of brokering a pay and benefits package.

Here’s how to ace it:

• Do your homework 📚: Know your worth! Research industry standards and use salary transparency laws (in 21 states) to your advantage.

• Highlight your value 🌟: Showcase your skills and experience! Internships, projects, and coursework make you a strong candidate.

• Stay positive 💪: Approach the conversation collaboratively.

Avoid these common mistakes 🚫:

• Not asking at all: You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take.

• Starting at your bottom line: Aim higher to leave room for negotiation.

• Unprofessionalism: Keep emotions in check and focus on facts.

Pro tips for success ✅:

• Practice the pitch: Rehearse with a friend or mentor to feel confident.

• Use silence strategically: After stating your ask, wait for a response.

• Know when to walk: Hold out for a better offer if needed, but consider the value of gaining first-time job experience.

Ready to make that money move? 🤑 Follow these tips, and you'll be well on your way to securing the salary you deserve!

Gen Z’s News Source: Online Comments

Gen Z is prioritizing "information sensibility" over traditional fact-checking, often relying on influencers for curated news, as reported by Business Insider.

Online, Gen Z typically engages in what some have described as "time-pass" mode, preferring easily digestible content while avoiding clickbait. Platforms like TikTok simplify news delivery through influencers, effectively capturing younger audiences' attention.

Despite concerns about misinformation, the digital generation exercises caution when consuming online news. They actively avoid false information and rely on social validation, according to data from Google’s Jigsaw. Zoomers are prioritizing credible sources on social media and steer clear of conflicting or uncomfortable content, focusing on likes, shares, comments, and endorsements to assess credibility.

Gen Z's online behaviors are reshaping media consumption norms, redefining how information is trusted and shared. By emphasizing credibility and social validation, they favor curated content and peer feedback over traditional sources. As this generation continues to influence digital media trends, their habits are transforming how information spreads and is consumed.

Starbucks Iced Energy Debut

Starbucks is launching a new line of Iced Energy drinks, blending fruity flavors with a robust caffeine punch — up to 205 milligrams per serving, equivalent to four cups of coffee or six cans of cola.

These drinks are becoming popular among Gen Z for their refreshing taste and energy boost, as reported by Fast Company. Besides caffeine, they also contain taurine, known for potentially enhancing exercise performance.

However, concerns about their high caffeine content persist, especially among younger consumers. Fast Company notes ongoing debates about the health implications of such beverages. Recently, Panera discontinued its Charged Lemonade due to similar controversies over caffeine levels.

Starbucks' introduction of these handcrafted Iced Energy drinks adds to the competitive market of energy-boosting beverages. Other major chains like Dunkin’, McDonald’s, and Prime are also expanding their offerings to meet the growing demand.

Stay informed, stay safe, and drink wisely! 🌟