Today’s job market has placed a greater demand that college students emerge ready to hit the ground running. Gone are the days when a new college student had the luxury to “learn on the job” or train as you go. Employers are faced with fewer customers and less revenue. Business students are now charged with making the most of their college career in an effort to position themselves as competitive job candidates. Below are several success strategies for business students.
1. Attend Class: This should go without saying. However, some students erroneously believe that they can successfully pass a class and master the course material without ever attending class. Students are encouraged to attend class and meet with their instructors during the semester on a regular basis.
2. Join an Organization/Club: Consider joining an organization or club. This is a great way to meet fellow students and faculty. Once you have participated for a year or so consider applying for a leadership position within the club or organization. Your active participation will provide you with the opportunity to develop interpersonal, leadership, planning, and organizational skills which are very marketable.
3. Network: Make up business cards that include your name, telephone number and email. On the back of the card list areas that you have experience in such as retail, hospitality, catering, childcare etc. Hand out your business card when you attend meetings, church, sporting events and meet someone. Remember not all jobs are posted and many job opportunities happen because of who knows you.
4. Volunteer: If you are currently unemployed and attending school full-time consider volunteering to gain work experience. Consider committing 10-15 hours a week for a minimum of 6 months. Although you won’t receive a paycheck this experience can provide you with training and/or skills that can be useful once you head out into the job market.
5. Start your on Business: While in college consider starting your on business. As you take courses in your major you can put your theoretical knowledge to practical use. Course projects and assignments should center on your proposed business. This will afford you the opportunity to receive expert feedback from your instructors without you having to pay the cost of hiring consultants to help you start a business in the future.
