She Strengthens

Navigating the Professional World: A Crash Course in Essential Vocabulary

As a recent college graduate, I found myself thrust into the real world without a clear understanding of the language and terminology used in professional settings. Despite being an organized student, I missed the career planning boat and graduated a semester early, leaving me scrambling to catch up.

My Entry into the Real World

After a summer research position and a stint of part-time jobs, I finally landed a 9-to-5 job in my field of Architectural History at the City Government in my hometown. It was there that I realized the importance of understanding industry-specific vocabulary to succeed.

Essential Phrases to Know

1. Due Diligence: This phrase, often used in real estate, law, and construction, refers to the process of gathering necessary information to ensure a transaction or project is thorough and accurate.

2. Entry-Level: An entry-level job is an opportunity for individuals with little or no experience in a field to apply, typically at an entry-level salary. I learned this the hard way, missing out on vital career services talks during my senior year.

3. Analytical Skills: Still unclear on this term, I found it on my college’s Career Services webpage. If you have insight, please share!

4. Rapid-Succession Job Applications: The process of applying to multiple jobs in a short period can be overwhelming. I applied to four jobs, investing significant time and effort into each application. It was a lonely and terrifying experience, but ultimately led to my first job through a chain of coffee dates and informational interviews.

5. Development: This term has different meanings depending on the industry. In Architectural History/Real Estate, a developer is responsible for building or restoring properties. In tech, it refers to a Web Developer, while in nonprofits, it means fundraising.

6. Designer: This title can encompass various roles, including Fashion Designer, Graphic Designer, and Architectural Designer. The term’s versatility can be both fascinating and confusing.

Bonus Words!

• Accrue: To accumulate or earn benefits, such as vacation hours or sick leave.
• Benefits: The perks that come with certain jobs, including health insurance, retirement plans, and more.

Share Your Story!

What vocabulary words or phrases did you find confusing when you started your professional journey? Let’s build a community of support and share our experiences to help each other navigate the Professional World.