What are my career goals?

A Smith MBA is a leader. Whether your goal is to start your own business, consult for an international firm, market services or products, join an investment bank, manage global supply chains or run an accounting firm, you will be prepared. But you have to know what you want.

If you’re still an undergrad, make the most of it. Take courses that expand your mind and test your skills. An MBA is about passion backed up with ability. Take the time you need to explore your career options. Talking to older professionals in a variety of fields is a good way to do this – it’s called “informational interviewing.” Follow the tips in this web site to plan for a few years of professional life before you pursue your MBA.

Been working for a while? Wondering if “MBA – Now” is the answer to “What should I do with my life next?” Maybe you love your current job and want to expand your ability to grow within it. Maybe your job isn’t a perfect fit, but your dream job is within your grasp. How do you get there?

Focus on your goals by writing them down. Review your goals frequently. Are these goals still large enough to hold your dreams? Do you need additional skills to make the leap?

Some options include:

  • Career Counselors and Coaches
  • Self Assessment
  • More experienced colleague or professional & Informational Interviews
  • Resources like trade journals and professional conferences/workshops

Career Counselors and Coaches
Don’t know what job may be right for you? If you are an undergraduate, explore the career resources available through your university (career counseling, counseling center, alumni mentors, etc). If you have already graduated – you may be eligible for alumni career services at your college, or consider researching career coaching.

Self Assessment
Or, on your own try a few of the self assessment tests that can help identify your strengths. [The “Signature Strengths” test on Martin E.P. Seligman’s Authentic Happiness site is free – www.authentichappiness.org. The Gallup Organization’s excellent “Strengths Finder” test costs $25 – www.strengthsfinder.com.]

More experienced Collegeaues and Professionals & Informational Interviewing
Seek a more experienced colleague to be your mentor in your career growth process.

Gain insight to academic and professional resources and conduct informational interviews.

Informational Interviewing
The best way to know if a job fits your dreams is to talk to someone who is doing that job. This is called “informational interviewing” and yes, it’s about information, not pushing your resume.

Talk to professionals in fields that interest you. You can call or write to ask for an informational interview at their convenience. Plan on no more than 30 minutes, generally before work begins, during lunch or at a professional association function. Ask them what skills they need to perform their jobs. Ask about a typical work day. Maybe they’ll share their vision of where their industry is going. All professional contacts are valuable and worthwhile in helping you decide how to shape your future. [Thank your interviewers promptly with a written note to show your professionalism.]

Valuable Resources: Trade Journals and Professional Associations
Read trade journals. Learn about industry advances, discover new technology, review job postings and requirements.

Visit conferences and join professional associations. Observe presentations, participate in workshops, consider career options, and ask about mentor programs.

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