My mentee walked in, visibly agitated, ready to vent her frustrations.
Mentee: “Sis, I’m so frustrated! I still don’t get the terminology at work.”
I smiled knowingly and asked, “But aren’t you just three months into this role?”
Mentee: “Yes, but I read all of this in law school and even graduated with a first class!”
I couldn’t help but laugh out loud.
“My dear, I’ve been at my job for over a year, and I’m still learning terms like HeteroJunction cells, single and double microcrystalline, hypernova, albedo, and the list goes on! You see, not even my MBA prepared me enough for this!”
How to Navigate Workplace Jargon
Here’s the truth: no matter how much school preps you with theory, it can’t replace real-world experience and practice.
If you thought it could, you’ve been scammed o! I tried to lighten her mood with a chuckle.
But then I got serious and told her in very clear words that patience is key, patience with yourself and process.
To grow and get comfortable with all strange terminologies at work, you’ve got to:
- Trust the Process – You’re in a learning phase, give it time.
- Be Willing to Learn –Approach every task with curiosity.
- Accept Feedback –It’s part of growth, even when it stings.
- Stay Determined – Whatever the task, big or small, aim for excellence.
It’s only with these attitudes that you’ll gradually master and truly understand the intricacies of your role. And remember, if you’re fortunate enough to have a boss or supervisor who’s willing to teach, that’s a blessing—make the most of it.
A Message to High Achievers
To all the bookworms and first-class graduates (yes, I’m speaking in my African auntie tone), remember: No degree or textbook can replace what you’ll learn on the job. Be kind to yourself and accept that learning doesn’t stop just because you’ve left the classroom.
So, be gracious to yourself. Allow yourself to go through your learning process, even with tasks that feel “beneath your perceived level of importance” (mighty you) or “too basic.” Trust me, every lesson counts.
Whatever level of the career ladder you’re on—whether you’re a fresh graduate, a new employee, a mid-level manager, or even a new executive— learning continues. There’s no shame in being a learner at any stage
What did you struggle with when you first started a new job or switched roles? Drop your comments and let’s all learn together.
