Leaving Campus and Going to Work

A friend of mine bought this a few weeks ago and I borrowed it to read while travelling to a job interview. It was not what I was expecting. Alot of books like this are very wordy and kinda hard to read, but this book explains things in what I call 'normal' language. I saw why each topic (and there were many) was discussed in the book (they made sense to know if you were working), and while there were some definite dos and don'ts in the book, most of the chapters told you the pros and cons for you to make the decision. I'm still looking for a job right now, but I've already picked up a few things that would even help me in my temp jobs. I would recommend it.

Jason Smith was right, I accepted my job offer and thought "now what?" Thanks to him, I now know what to do in order to make good decisions for this first job, and with my new paycheck. And the greatest part is that he did this without being condescending and with real life examples and humor. The sections on finances, benefits, mentors and secret rules contained very good information that I have not seen anywhere else. Anyone graduating from school or moving into a new position should read this book.

This book is a remarkable look into the do's and don't's of your first real job after college. No one else has approached the subject of "I've graduated, I have a job, now what?" with the insight and humor that Jason Smith applies in this book. The book teaches any young professional (or seasoned vet) about how to avoid the pitfalls, mistakes, and failed expectations that many new hires face. Jason Smith has seen it all in 14 years of HR management, and has some very sage advice based on his own experiences. The author has recorded an in-depth discussion of the book, which can be heard on the "lockjaw radio" podcast . Highly recommended!!

Reviewed by William E. Cooper for Reader Views (3/06) "Leaving Campus and Going to Work" is a great book for college students about to graduate and enter the work force. It is an accurate and thorough study of what students can expect after graduation and start their careers. They worked long and hard in school to acquire a useful education, and they are about to encounter a different world. Mr. Smith has written a really good overview for them and provides excellent guidance on how they can approach and succeed in the working world. He provides the necessary transition advice, and the appropriate messaging for what they can expect in the workplace. Mr. Smith does not provide a theoretical or academic approach. With his considerable experience in Human Resources he brings what new employees need - the knowledge of what it will really be like out there. Having been the CEO of a government agency, and having personally experienced the many and varied personnel issues, it is refreshing to see someone provide the basics on how new employees can not only survive, but flourish and grow. Mr. Smith truly has a complete grasp not only on how to win himself, but how to help others win. This book is a must read for all college students and all new employees. Well done sir. Well done.

This is a great book to introduce you to the working world. As a graduating senior in college, I really appreciate the insight and personal experiences the author revealed about the inner workings of the corporate environment. I feel much more prepared to handle my first job after learning how to talk effectively with my boss and how to prepare for the unexpected. The book covers all kinds of areas, from trying to fit with company culture to balancing your personal and working life. The chapter on finances, budgets, and planning for retirement was also a plus, since no one ever really explains those things to you. It is a funny, well-written book and is an essential guidebook for anyone entering the workforce.