Begin to think of yourself as a professional by connecting with your Career Design Advisor to update or create your LinkedIn profile. Begin building your network by connecting with MBU alumni to gain insights into your areas of interest. Engage in informational interviews and consider shadowing professionals in your desired field. Participate in career development events to enhance your career skills, grow your network, and explore various postgraduate opportunities.
Developing a Skill Strategy
Employers look for a mix of technical, soft, and industry-specific skills. Take time to evaluate your strengths and areas for improvement:
Technical Skills are abilities related to specific tools, software, or methodologies required for a profession.
Examples:
- Software proficiency
- Data analysis
- Writing
- Research
- Coding
Soft skills are interpersonal and personal attributes that enhance workplace effectiveness.
Examples:
- Communication
- Teamwork
- Adaptability
- Problem-solving.
Industry-Specific skills are specialized knowledge and competencies relevant to a particular field.
Examples:
- Legal Research for Law
- Patient Care for Healthcare
- Marketing Analytics for Business
Building Your Professional Network
Networking isn’t just about finding a job—it’s about learning from others and discovering opportunities. Here’s how to start:
Your professors and academic advisors are not just educators—they are industry professionals with valuable connections. They can provide career advice, research opportunities, letters of recommendation, and introductions to professionals in your field. Don’t hesitate to visit office hours and express your career interests!
Your classmates today will be your colleagues tomorrow, and alumni can provide real-world insights and potential job leads. Join campus organizations, LinkedIn alumni groups, or mentorship programs to start fostering meaningful connections. Many alumni are eager to help students from their alma mater—reach out and ask for advice!
Take advantage of career fairs, employer meet-and-greets, and industry panels hosted by your Career Center or academic department. These events allow you to interact directly with recruiters, hiring managers, and industry professionals who are actively seeking emerging talent. Prepare questions and make a lasting impression!
Not sure what career path is right for you? Informational interviews give you a behind-the-scenes look at different industries and job roles. Reach out to professionals on LinkedIn, ask faculty for introductions, or contact alumni to schedule a short conversation about their career journey and industry trends.
Your digital footprint matters more than ever! Employers, recruiters, and industry professionals often check LinkedIn profiles and online portfolios before making hiring decisions. Take these steps to establish a strong and professional online presence:
Use a professional headshot, compelling headline, and detailed “About” section to showcase your skills, experiences, and aspirations. A well-crafted profile increases your visibility and credibility in your industry.
Stay updated on industry trends, job openings, and career insights by engaging with organizations and influencers in your field. This will help you stay informed and discover opportunities before they’re widely advertised.
Employers notice active LinkedIn users! Share relevant articles, comment on posts, publish insights from your studies or internships, and participate in discussions. This demonstrates your industry knowledge and enthusiasm.
Networking can feel intimidating, but the more you practice, the more confident you’ll become! Use these strategies to develop your networking abilities and make meaningful connections:
A short, engaging summary of who you are, what you’re studying, and your career goals will help you confidently introduce yourself in professional settings. Keep it concise—about 30 seconds to a minute—and be ready to adapt it to different situations.
Whether in-person or virtual, these events provide valuable face-to-face interactions with recruiters, industry professionals, and alumni. Approach conversations with curiosity, ask thoughtful questions, and take notes on potential connections.
After meeting someone at a career event or networking session, send a personalized follow-up email or LinkedIn message within 48 hours. Express gratitude for their time, mention something specific from your conversation, and express interest in staying connected.
