Taking into account how the COVID-19 pandemic changed how people operate in the world of work, The Washington Post has provided young professionals with some tips for success.

Most new college graduates are members of Gen Z, those born between 1997 and 2012, who are expected to make up more than 32 percent of the workforce by 2032, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Many are used to working or attending school in a hybrid environment, have not had as much experience in building personal relationships in person, and may have missed out of internship possibilities.

The Post advised young professionals not to be afraid to ask questions. When they are starting at a now job, good questions for them to ask include where and how to find sources of information, what communication tools are available, how to meet with colleagues and supervisors, and where to go if they have a problem. There may be an online employee resource that can help.

“You may be uncomfortable, but people won’t know you have a question if you don’t ask,” said Paaras Parker, chief human resource officer at Paycor, which provides  human resources and payroll software, in an interview.

Finding out about how the employer uses artificial intelligence (AI) tools is used is also important. Employers may have policies governing its use, if it is used at all. But AI is a tool to assist one’s work, not do it, said experts interviewed by the Post. “I can tell when someone drafts a communication, and it’s written by ChatGPT,” said Traci Wilk, who has more than 25 years in human resources at companies including Starbucks and Coach. “That’s not something I want to see.”

Young people with fresh ideas should not be shy to share their thoughts, according to the experts interviewed by the Post. That could include sharing tools, app shortcuts, ideas or stories about how they have solved problems in the past,  Parker said.

“You’re seeing things for the first time, and you can highlight that,” said Matt Abrahams, who teaches strategic communication at Stanford Graduate School of Business. “Focus on the value you bring.”

Getting to know people is also key, said the experts. New employees can accomplish that by setting time aside to talk with colleagues and supervisors, virtually or in person, in order to build relationships that foster trust. They should be ready with thoughts, questions and goals for the conversation, Wilk advised. She also suggested that they learn more about those co-workers in a number of ways, such as asking them what they may be working on, or looking at their LinkedIn profiles.

Regardless of where they work, new hires should put in extra effort in order to make themselves indispensable and unforgettable, Wilk said. Asking questions and participating in meetings are ways to do that. So is volunteering for extra assignments or getting involved in other groups or projects to gain more visibility. Wilk also advised trying to connect with a boss every day, even if it's casual conversation.

Abrahams advised new workers to show up on time, dress appropriately and when virtual, keep a clean background, have good lighting and check the sound quality. He also suggested that they start introducing themselves by saying what they're passionate about so that people remember them.

When at a loss, there is always the internet, the Post concluded. Aside from Google articles, TikTok can be a place where creators can guide young professionals through issues, such as asking for a raise or having a difficult conversation, Wilk said. For generic questions, AI might even offer some good suggestions, Parker said, adding that people should use common sense when reviewing its advice.