Tips for Navigating MBA Placements and Networking

Getting my role at #microsoft right after my MBA from Seattle University was a journey fueled by networking, and along the way, I've noticed common errors that many encounter. Most of us make the same networking mistakes, hindering our chances of securing employment. I'm here to shed light on these stumbling blocks and provide actionable solutions. Sharing 4 key issues holding you back from getting hired and, most importantly, how to overcome them. 1. Lack of Networking Strategy: Many individuals fail to have a clear networking strategy in place, resulting in aimless connections and missed opportunities. To overcome this, start by defining your goals, identifying target industries or companies, and actively engaging with professionals in your field through platforms like LinkedIn. Networking with purpose increases your chances of meaningful connections and job opportunities. 2. Ineffective Resume: Your resumes are often the first impression you make on potential employers. If they are generic or poorly crafted, they may fail to capture attention. To address this, tailor your resume highlighting relevant skills and experiences that align with the job requirements. Consider seeking feedback from mentors or career advisors to ensure your documents stand out. 3. Limited Online Presence: In today's digital age, having a strong online presence is essential for job seekers. A lack of professional visibility on platforms like LinkedIn can hinder your chances of being discovered by recruiters. To combat this, optimize your LinkedIn profile with a professional photo, compelling headline, and detailed work experience. Share relevant content, engage with industry peers, and actively participate in discussions to showcase your expertise and expand your network. 4. Poor Interview Preparation: Nervousness and lack of preparation often lead to subpar performance during interviews. To overcome this hurdle, thoroughly research the company and role you are applying for, practice common interview questions, and prepare thoughtful responses that highlight your skills and experiences. Additionally, consider conducting mock interviews with friends or mentors to build confidence and refine your communication skills. By addressing these key issues and implementing effective strategies, you can significantly improve your chances of getting hired and advancing in your career journey. Let's navigate the world of networking together and pave the way towards success! #CareerTips #Networking #LinkedInInsights #JobSearchSuccess

What tips would you have for networking? Probably the most common question I'm asked. I think "networking" is one of those terms we hear about as we get older and we're like 'Yeah, I know what you mean' but on the inside we're secretly saying 'Wait, how do you actually do that?' Some basic principles (and examples) might help to demystify: 🌀 Be Genuine - Bottom line, you must be real. Don't network just to network, that's easy to sniff out. It's all about developing genuine relationships, so let that guide you. A good way I heard it put yesterday is to network to make genuine connections, rather than networking for jobs (thanks for the words Cody Larimer). Really the essence of networking is just starting conversations with people and then staying in touch. Example: Email someone in a company you want to work for, in either a position you want someday or in a position a couple of years ahead of you. Share that you want to be where they are someday and if they can spare ten minutes for a few specific questions about that. Then come prepared with specific, thoughtful questions that aren't too general or vague. And spoiler alert - don't ask for a job. 🌀 Intentional vs. Incidental - I do believe you need some intentionality to your networking strategy. All of us will network by virtue of being alive, holding jobs, talking to people, etc. This is incidental and just happens naturally. But when you are intentional, your network becomes exponentially vibrant and rich. Again, it's not about forcing the issue just to say you're "networking" but it's about being strategic and putting some concentrated effort out there. Example: In my first year of law school, I knew NO ONE in the sports industry. So I started scheduling informational interviews, at least two per week, every week. Once I got one, I was able to get another and then they just snowballed. Many of the people knew each other. Before long I had a nice little web of contacts. This is where I suggest starting if you don't feel like you have a great network. 🌀 Drops in the Proverbial Bucket - Related to the first two principles is the fact that networking is very much an investment over time. You really build relationships one interaction at a time, like drops in a bucket. If you're genuine and you are intentional about it (not to mention a little bit creatively opportunistic) you'll have plenty of opportunities to add to the bucket. The important thing is to start the drip drip drip. Example: Easiest one here are birthdays. I have a friend who asks new contacts for their birthday so he can wish them a happy birthday when it comes. Holidays or job promotions are other low-hanging drops you can take advantage of. We all know we need to network - but sometimes we're not sure where to start. Hopefully the above helped a little bit. Anyone want to add on? #LinkedInSports #sportsbiz #sportsjobs

👋🏼 I'm back with #LinkedInTips number 2 - and similar to my first tip (check out my previous post 😉 ) this one is all about breaking the barrier between computer and human connection. The job market is full of amazingly talented individuals. Some applying to as many jobs as they can, some utilizing their networks and reaching out to people on multiple platforms, and most are doing both to get their foot in the door. As a recruiter, we can receive up to 10 connections requests and messages in a given day. During internship recruitment, I can receive sometimes up to 50, depending on if I had just attended a career fair. Here's my tip on making yourself STAND OUT from those 50 requests: ✨ Add a note in your connection request or send a message ✨ Adding a note to your connection request can do multiple things: 1. At the very least, this will make your connection request take up more space than the others. This can very easily make the eyes gravitate towards your connection. 2. It can provide context to the person you are connecting with, especially if you had met them at a previous event, like a career fair! 3. It shows you have intention, and that you took the extra effort to write something. 4. When they accept, your note automatically opens as a message, giving that person the opportunity, right then, to respond and follow up! BONUS TIP: Don't only add a note asking for time to chat, provide the role you applied for, why you're interested, and add in something you may have in common! Identifying a commonality will help you 🤜🏼 break down the barrier, allowing that person to connect with you emotionally. People are more likely to help someone they feel a connection to 💖 Here's a quick example: "Hi! I see you are also an alum from the UO, go ducks! I’m interested in your company, and applied for this open position. I’m passionate about what you’re doing, and believe my skills in these areas would be valuable to your goals. I would love to connect with you further. Best - Claire" Of course you'll want to specify the company and other details, but all of this fits within the 300 character limit with room to add more! It comes down to intentionally connecting, and that will help you stand out. Happy connecting! #NetworkingTips #UniversityRecruiting