Ben Garrett a recent UC Alumni and Member of the CBRIN Marketing Team, Shares Insights for Graduates

As you might remember from your younger years, many of your first jobs—whether it was mowing a neighbour’s lawn or walking a family friend’s dog came from knowing the right people at the right time. This is the core of networking, and it becomes even more crucial as you enter the business world. 

Some graduates fall into the trap of aiming only for large, corporate roles, these are the ‘Maccas jobs’ of adulthood. But with the rise in small business creation and “98% of Australian businesses calculated as a small business” (2024. ASBFEO) , there’s a growing demand for new perspectives and fresh skills. 

Personally, I didn’t understand the value of my own skills until I landed a job as a building receptionist. That role introduced me to amazing small businesses and startups, which opened the door to numerous opportunities. As I began designing posters and organising events for the office, I noticed a growing need for digital skills, effective email communication, and graphic design—skills I had gained through assignments during my university years. These experiences laid the foundation for my career with the Canberra Innovation Network. 

For many recent graduates, making those first connections can be challenging. However, in the small business community, companies are often more willing to take a chance on emerging talent. Whether through internships or small projects, these experiences help you build valuable relationships and open doors to new opportunities. 

From my time at CBRIN, I’ve witnessed the vital role those fresh skills especially in digital marketing and general tech smarts play in the success of startups and small businesses. Whether it’s through internship programs or new hires, companies in the space are actively seeking the expertise that recent graduates bring to the table. 

As someone who isn’t naturally extroverted, I understand that stepping out of your comfort zone can be intimidating. But small businesses are doing extraordinary things that often fly under the radar. By engaging with these companies, you’ll start to see that many are pursuing innovative goals on par with larger corporations. Their efforts to gain attention and traction not only amplify the voices of these small businesses but also help you cultivate and strengthen your own voice and beliefs. So, how do you begin these conversations? 

At CBRIN, we offer First Wednesday Connect, a monthly public event designed for networking and connecting with Canberra’s businesspeople and entrepreneurs. It’s an excellent opportunity to see where your university fields are heading, explore innovative ideas, and perhaps find your next career move. 

Be sure to attend the next one on 2nd October at the University of Canberra. Don’t miss out on the chance to network and make meaningful connections for your future!

Register below! 

 

**“Number of Small Businesses in Australia.” 2024. ASBFEO. Accessed September 25. https://www.asbfeo.gov.au/small-business-data-portal/number-small-businesses-australia.