For Recent College Grads

Welcome to Learfield. We're glad you're here. You're at Learfield because you fit. You were selected.  You were hand-picked. We want you. We want you to succeed and prosper. We want the absolute best for you. Let me tell you a true story.

A long time ago we hired a terrific young lady fresh out of college. She was learning and beginning to know her way around when she popped into my office with a request for a week off to join her old sorority sisters on a float trip. She didn't expect to be paid, she said, because she knew our policy regarding vacation time -- she hadn't earned any. She was really miffed at me when I told her that we had work that needed to be done. That's why we'd hired her. No, she couldn't have any time off. This wasn't college anymore where classes could be cut and her time was her own. In a manner of speaking, we own her. 

I tell you this story to punctuate the fact that college life is wholly different from work life. In college, for example, you're nothing as a freshman. But by the time you're a junior or senior you're important in the social goings-on around campus. In a job or career, that maturation often takes ten to twenty years or more. At Learfield there are many bright, energetic, creative and ambitious people ahead of you. The good news is we're growing and we hired you because we need you. Nothing would please me, or Roger, or Stan, or Greg or Andy more than seeing you move up quickly in our organization. 

So, here are some tips: Throw yourself into your job. Learn it very well. Show your superiors you're grateful to have work -- many don't. Be inquisitive about Learfield, about what all is going on around you. Ask about things you don't understand; push for answers. Feel free to offer suggestions. Don't feel hurt if your great ideas are scuttled; push for reasons why. Go to lunch, or otherwise find outside social opportunities to be with associates -- all of whom probably outrank you. Arrive early and stay late. Walk briskly with your head erect. Dress better than average. Remain quiet --not outspoken-- in departmental meetings. Become involved in a community of friends outside of work. Be respectful, but not intimidated, by management; feel free to email or stop by our offices anytime. Expect to advance and be bold in seeking new opportunities. And, read my blog everyday!

-- Clyde