Too often people stay in an unfulfilling career because they worry about the process of changing direction or industries. I sat down with Sarah Johnston, Director of Career Management at the David Eccles School of Business, to get some advice on navigating the waters when changing careers.
Johnston says there are two types of career pivots: industry or function. For example, people looking to return for their MBA might be looking to move from biology to finance or from business analysis to human resources. Through the MBA programs at the David Eccles School of Business, students will find abundant resources, personalized attention, and hands-on guidance to give them the license to explore all possibilities within a business career. Johnston encourages students to come with an open mind because, “students often find a new path even from what they thought when they began their courses.”
Co-curriculum and customized programs are just two reasons students end up with more satisfying career options. Co-curriculum such as clubs, experiential learning, and study trips give each student a chance to find their true affinities which allows them to search out internships and post-graduate jobs that will give them personal and professional rewards.
If you’re worried about business being the right fit, Johnston says they’ve had people with no business background join the MBA program. She says a few keys to success in this transformation are, “to have an adaptable personality, interest in a variety of things, and a strong work ethic.” She goes on to say, “understanding the type of culture in which you’d thrive is equally important as the task of the job.” There are a few online websites such as Glassdoor and Vault which can help you determine the right “fit” with a company and career function and, if you’re considering starting on your MBA, they might be a good place to start investigating.
Ok, you’ve done some research, you have an open mind and now you’re ready to step on campus. But you still have knots in your stomach. Don’t worry, believe Johnston when she says, “You’re in good hands and you won’t be going through this alone. We have mentors, coaching, and career exposure through work-study and internships. We also have strong corporate relationships to get you in front of the companies you need to in order to do informational interviews and do a deeper exploration into the field of interest. Each student has a person assigned to help them by giving advice and being a sounding board.”
So what are you waiting for? 2013 is your year to get ahead! Learn more about the David Eccles School of Business MBA programs.