It's graduation season and that means lots of people out there are hoping to land their dream job – or at least get started on the path that will lead to their dream job. I recently posted about how surprised I was to find that many college grads are facing fierce competition for something as “basic” as an entry-level, administrative position – like a receptionist or admin assistant. I definitely understand how it could be very frustrating to think that, after investing seemingly endless money and time, there's nothing better to look forward to than being someone's assistant.

On the flip-side, I also think some grads set their expectations too high. That's not to say that you shouldn't dream or that you shouldn't know what your long-term goals are, but someone who's not willing to accept that yes, they may have to start on the bottom run of the ladder is really doing themselves a disservice.

I've known people who are coming into a career with nothing more than a degree – no experience, no internships, no connections – and are simply unwilling to accept that they're applying for and hoping for jobs that they can't really even compete for.

It can be frustrating that the job market is so competitive, that there is such a race for a “basic” job like an assistant, but at the same time, you have to know what your qualifications are and be realistic about your expectations. You don't want to be miserable in your first job, but you should also expect a certain degree of “uncomfortability.” I've mentioned before that I had no problem getting my first “real” job based on my professional and intern experience through out college. But I started out working overnights and did so for about a year. I fully expected that and was just glad to have a job I enjoyed, even if the hours were horrible.

Don't sacrifice too much, but be willing to give up a few expectations.