Is THIS the Secret Ingredient to a Better Job Hunt?

Plus: FOMO-Driven Spending & Beyond the Paycheck

Welcome to RoadMap!

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

🔨 Did You Know?: On September 11, 1987, Peter Gabriel’s “Sledgehammer” music video won nine awards at the MTV Video Music Awards, setting a record for the most awards in one night. Its creative use of stop-motion animation and surreal visuals reshaped the future of music video production.

As you navigate your career, RoadMap can help you find success and break new ground, just like “Sledgehammer” did.

Explore how RoadMap can guide you towards your ideal path by visiting our website today. đź’Ą

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

Rest, Recharge, Succeed

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Better sleep is more than just a health boost—it’s a tool that can aid your job hunt and help you thrive in your career. When you're well-rested, you're equipped to stay sharp, make informed decisions, and maintain energy throughout a challenging day. Here are some tips to try:

  • Create a calming bedtime routine: Develop a pre-sleep ritual like reading or meditating to signal your body that it's time for rest.

  • Exercise: Physical activity during the day helps improve sleep quality, but avoid intense exercise right before bedtime.

  • Limit screen time: To promote better sleep, reduce screen use before bed, as blue light can interfere with sleep patterns.

  • Keep your sleep environment comfortable: Ensure your room is quiet, dark, and cool to create an optimal sleep setting.

By experimenting with these habits, you can make a positive impact on your job search and career goals. Feeling well-rested will make it easier to approach applications and interviews with confidence and persistence, improving your chances of landing your next big opportunity.

Live Events Fuel Overspend

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A recent study by MERGE has uncovered surprising spending trends among Gen Z, particularly when it comes to live events. Despite being a budget-conscious generation, more than 85% of respondents admitted to overspending during concerts, festivals, and sporting events, according to Yahoo Finance.

The energy of the crowd and the fear of missing out (FOMO) were key motivators for these splurges. Food and beverages, along with fashion and accessories, topped the list of spending categories for event-goers. Additionally, brand activations at these events had a notable influence, with over half of respondents admitting to making purchases due to event advertising.

For young professionals navigating their finances, this study highlights the importance of budgeting and understanding how external influences like events can impact spending habits. Learning to balance the excitement of events with financial discipline could help recent grads maintain financial stability while still enjoying social experiences.

Beyond the Paycheck

Image: Forbes/Getty

As the newest generation to enter the workforce, recent graduates are bringing fresh perspectives and values to the modern workplace. Some companies are realizing that to attract and retain top talent, they should communicate that they offer more than just a paycheck, according to Forbes. A few popular approaches that resonate include:

  • Close the empathy gap: People value leaders who recognize and care about them as individuals, not just as workers.

  • Improve the interview process: Employers can focus on what they offer in terms of growth, purpose, and support, rather than only evaluating a candidate's qualifications.

  • Create multigenerational task forces: Teams with leaders of various ages generate a range of perspectives.

As recent graduates entering the workforce, it's important to be adaptable and adjust to the current work culture, even if it's not perfect. But by understanding and learning from what others value, you'll be better equipped to grow into a future leader.