This article is based on the content of a meeting between Elgün Oruclu, Director of HR Option, and a group of recent graduates and job seekers. During the 90-minute session, an open discussion and exchange of ideas took place. Below is a summary of some of the key insights shared, presented for your benefit.

Years of observation show that the decisions made at the beginning of a career can shape the direction of the next 5–10 years. Sometimes, however, the right decision is hidden in the most unexpected details.

Restroom or Career Path?

Most of us pay attention to the distance to the workplace. But what about “Restroom or Career Path?” This may sound unusual, yet it is a very real observation drawn from practice. If you consistently struggle to make a final decision between companies after interviews, try visiting the restroom designated for employees. It may later become an important factor in your decision-making process.

In many cases, the level of cleanliness and overall condition of the restroom reflects how much value the company places on its employees. At first glance, this may seem like a minor detail, but corporate culture often reveals itself through such small yet meaningful indicators.

What Should Be the Main Criterion in Your First Job?

One of the biggest mistakes recent graduates make is prioritizing salary, office comfort, or brand name when choosing their first job. At the early stage of a career, the most important factor is learning the job, understanding real market conditions, and gaining initial experience. Your first workplace is essentially a school. The work ethics, sense of responsibility, and systematic thinking you develop there will distinguish you in later stages of your career.

Not Salary, but Environment Builds You

The labor market is highly competitive. For this reason, at the beginning of your career, salary, commuting distance, or visual attractiveness of the company should remain secondary considerations. The key questions are: Will this company help me grow? Is the leadership approach developmental? Do employees feel valued? Is there a strong and healthy corporate culture?

Starting with a modest salary in a company with a solid culture can bring far greater long-term benefits. In contrast, entering an unstructured environment with weak corporate ethics may demotivate a young professional and even push them away from their chosen field.

Development Strategy: Do Not Rush – Learn, Observe, Improve

Career decisions should not be rushed. Participating in training programs, strengthening your skills through courses, observing experienced professionals, and continuously working on self-development are much healthier strategies. Rapid career growth is usually built upon a quiet and disciplined development phase.

Unpaid internships or entry-level positions with modest compensation can sometimes open the door to significant future opportunities. The main priority should be shaping yourself in the right environment. A strong start creates a solid foundation for both professional and personal growth.

Final Thought

When choosing a company, do not focus solely on the building, location, or marketing image. Pay attention to the internal culture, leadership style, employee treatment, and development opportunities. Sometimes, the simplest detail can be enough to guide your decision. A career is a marathon, and its first step should be taken in the right direction.

HR Option – Human Resources Development and Training Center.
Source: Prepared based on a meeting organized by Elgün Oruclu with recent graduates and job seekers.