The 3 Key Things Managers and Coaches Look For in Newly Hired Graduates

“Learning is the only thing the mind never exhausts, never fears, and never regrets” Leonardo da Vinci 

Table of Contents

• Pro-activity and Initiative

• Coachability and a Growth Mindset

• Reliability and Professionalism

• Quick Tips to Stand Out Early

Pro-activity and Initiative

What they look for:
Managers love graduates who don’t wait to be told what to do, but instead ask smart questions, volunteer for projects, and look for ways to help the team.

How to show it:

• When you finish a task early, ask: “Is there anything else I can help with?”

• Offer to take notes during team meetings or help organise information.

• Propose small improvements (e.g., suggest a more efficient spreadsheet format).

Example:
A new marketing graduate at a mid-sized company noticed the team didn’t have a consistent way of tracking campaign results. She created a simple Excel dashboard template, shared it, and it became the team’s standard tool. Her manager praised her initiative — and within 6 months, she was trusted with managing her own campaign.

Coachability and a Growth Mindset

What they look for:
Coaches and managers want someone who is eager to learn, open to feedback, and willing to improve quickly. Being teachable often matters more than being perfect.

How to show it:

• When you receive feedback, say “Thank you — that helps me improve,” and actually apply it.

• Ask questions that show you’re curious about the “why” behind things.

• Keep a small “learning log” — jot down new things you learn each week.

Example:
A new graduate in an engineering firm received feedback that his reports were too technical for non-engineer clients. Instead of being defensive, he asked for examples of clearer reports and practiced rewriting his next one. Within a few months, he became known for producing client-friendly summaries — a key skill that earned him a fast promotion.

Reliability and Professionalism

What they look for:
Managers need to trust you. Graduates who consistently meet deadlines, communicate clearly, and show up prepared are remembered as dependable — a huge asset.

How to show it:

• Always deliver on promises — or communicate early if you can’t.

• Be on time (for work, meetings, deadlines).

• Take notes and follow up on actions from meetings.

Example:
A newly hired graduate in finance always sent concise follow-up summaries after meetings and kept her manager updated on progress without being asked. Her reliability led her manager to put her on a high-profile project earlier than expected.

Quick Tips to Stand Out Early

• Build small daily habits like greeting people warmly, organising your workspace, and checking your to-do list each morning.

• Find a mentor — someone a level or two above you who can guide you informally.

• Celebrate small wins and share credit — people remember those who lift others up.