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5 Books College Graduates Entering the Hybrid Workplace Need to Read

Published: Apr 28, 2021

 Career Readiness       Interviewing       Networking       Workplace Issues       
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The graduating class of 2021 may have not had the ideal senior year, but they are proving to be the most resilient. While students had to adjust from learning face-to-face and meeting in the library on campus to the digital world of online learning, it actually may have been the best way to prepare these recent graduates for their future.

As we continue to recover from the pandemic, the workplace is evolving and placing greater importance on digital communication as more employees work in a hybrid setting or entirely remote. Digital communication is no longer a soft skill but an essential tool for those entering the workforce.

Here are five books every college graduate should read to help them prepare for the hybrid workplace:

1) Digital Body Language by Erica Dhawan

In Digital Body Language, Erica Dhawan shares the new rules of digital communication. We rely on in-person body language to connect and build trust but now we must learn how this translates to talking through a screen in job interviews and in our first 90 days at work. Recent graduates who struggle with digital anxiety will also learn some tips.

This book is a practical guide on decoding the new signals and cues that have replaced traditional body language so that anyone can get heard, stand out, and build their brand at work.

2) Work It: Secrets for Success from the Boldest Women in Business by Carrie Kerpen

With the stories and advice from more than 50 inspiring women in business, Carrie wrote the ultimate toolkit full of secrets for success. Recent graduates will feel inspired hearing from each woman. From mastering social media to navigating office politics, Carrie covers it all.

This book inspires you to find the courage and uncover the skills you need to achieve success.

3) How To Thrive In The Virtual Workplace by Robert Glazer

Robert offers a blueprint for any person, especially a new member of the workforce, to be more successful in the remote workplace. You will learn how to leverage the flexibility associated with remote work and how to be more productive while working from anywhere. You’ll also find tips on how to avoid burnout and on connecting with colleagues in the virtual workspace. You will hear different perspectives from employees, managers, and leaders.

4) Recalculating: Navigate Your Career Through the Changing World of Work by Lindsey Pollak

For recent graduates or someone looking to make a change in their career, Lindsey provides an inspirational, useful, and forward-looking career playbook. Her book helps prepare you for a rapidly changing workplace while giving you the necessary skills and tools to achieve success. Lindsey creates a framework that helps through the new hybrid workplace and will support you throughout your future career.

5) Rituals Roadmap: The Human Way to Transform Everyday Routines into Workplace Magic by Erica Keswin

Rituals, routines, and habits shape so much of our daily lives. Erica shares how workplace rituals foster a sense of belonging. Even though you may not be leading a meeting early in your career, this book is a blueprint for creating healthy work rituals. These rituals are essential for developing friendships at work, especially when working remotely.

While you may no longer have to do required readings, books like the five I’ve highlighted in this article are so helpful for your professional development and growth!

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