Explore and Research the Possibilities
Making a career decision can be intimidating. Some are
unsure what type of job they are interested in or qualified for. The first step
in preparing for a successful job search is to determine what your long-term
professional goals are. You should be able to clearly articulate your plans for
the future. Where would you like to be in one year? In five? In twenty-five?
You should begin searching for opportunities that will help you realize those goals, whatever the time frame.
In defining your long term career goals, we suggest the following:
1. Discover and take courses/seminars of interest.
2. Talk with family members, friends, mentors, professors, and your whole network about opportunities in different fields. Alumni and Management Societies are also good resources to tap as you investigate various industries and careers. (For the links, refer to the "Networking" tab on this site)
3. Read, study, explore, and research various sources.
- The Harold B. Lee Library has some wonderful resources including Vault, Mint Global, and other sites that can help you learn more about various careers and companies. Check out the first floor of the Library to find books on business. The newly created resource page is also a GREAT resource. It will be referred to throughout the website. HBLL Business Resource
- The Business Career Center in the Tanner Building maintains a small library located on the west wall of the facility. Here you will find Books of Lists from the majority of large US Metropolitan Areas. These books list the top employers in each industry located in that particular area. The center library also contains copies of the latest Business Journals from various US cities. Regional Business Journals are an excellent resource in finding opportunities in a specific market (please do not take books out of the Career Center).
4. Take the Career Assessment Tests offered by the University Career Services (2590 WSC). These tests can help you identify areas of interest and possible careers for you. Go in person to 2590 WSC and you can schedule a test with their front desk. Some tests are free and others cost money (you can pay with your Signature Card if needed). Some test results are available right away while others take two or three business days to return. You also may meet with a member of the CACC Office and review the information; this gives you a chance to discuss the options you are interested in. (CACC tests offered)
5. Make multiple visits to a career counselor (446 TNRB).
6. Check BYU's job database (eRecruiting) to see what companies come to recruit at BYU. Once you have an account on eRecruiting, you can search all the jobs posted for BYU students.(2008 MBA Placement Companies)
What Do You Want To Achieve?
Determining which employers to target in your job search can be challenging. You’re likely interested in a specific geographic location, as well as a few industries. Your job search will become more focused as you define your interests and research which companies to target.
Strategic planning can make all the difference in the world. Your internship experience will help you find a full-time job. Your first full-time job will serve as a stepping stone to each job thereafter. Take care to plan your career search in perspective to your long-term goals.
Assembled below are several links to external sites that can help you with your career planning process.
Career ABC's
Job Search Prep
Career Analysis
6 Steps to a Job Search Action Plan (by Sherrie Gong Taguchi)
