by Sarah Clark
Sarah.clark@careertrainingreview.com
Career Training Review Columnist
For MBA students, graduating from a reputable business school is the first step toward career success. Unfortunately, too many recent graduates don't know how to leverage their newly acquired credentials to land a job. Communicating your skills to a potential employer is key to making a favorable impression and getting the job you want.
You have an opportunity to communicate your skills through networking events, cover letters, resumes, and job interviews. Each situation calls for a different communication style; mastering each of them can make you stand out from the competition.
Networking a Room
Networking is a great way to develop professional communication skills during and after business school. If you encounter someone at a networking event who could be a potential employer, don't make the mistake of selling yourself too hard. Networking events give you the opportunity to ease into a conversation. You can talk about sports, current events, a shared alma mater, or developments in an industry. When an opportunity presents itself, you can state your professional interests in your potential employer's field.
Cover Letters for MBA Graduates
A cover letter is typically your first chance to reach a potential employer. It should clearly and succinctly communicate your relevant qualifications. The letter should consist of no more than a few paragraphs of five or six sentences each. The introduction should state who you are and your interest in the position. The second paragraph should explain why you're well suited for the position. Talk about specific experiences and make sure your descriptions directly relate to qualifications stated in the job announcement. The final paragraph should summarize your qualifications and thank the hiring manager for consideration of your application.
Acing the Interview
MBA students know how to research industries, so use those skills acquired in business school to learn about the hiring company. Use that information to ask thoughtful questions, but avoid topics relating to compensation and working hours. Focus on the job and your qualifications. Prepare examples of instances in which you've performed tasks or exhibited characteristics relevant to the position.
Finally, check to see if your business school offers resources to help with the job-search process. Some MBA programs may even offer cover letter and resume-writing workshops.
About the Author
Sarah Clark is a freelance writer based in Virginia.
Posted on : March 8,2006
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