Photo attribution to LeJyBy
Professional experience is always our main focus when determining the right international career trajectory. We emphasize international internships, co-ops, contract work, etc. Spending a good amount of time developing your professional experience is always a good strategy. Putting all your eggs in one basket…isn’t.
If your professional experience is your only strong asset (for example, only highlighting the jobs that you have held and no industry involvement in your resume), than you are not providing added value to your organization. Employers want to have a well-rounded employee, one that expands beyond their work experience by learning relevant skills and being actively involved in their specific industry and community.
Think of your career like a game. The more points (skills and leadership activities) that you amass, the more quickly you will be noticed by upper management for a promotion or more responsibility. The key is to make strategic moves about the activities that you add to your career repertoire.
This week focus on making yourself a more attractive candidate by exploring opportunities outside of work. Remember that your career starts in college and graduation into ‘the real world’ is simply a building block of your career. Even if you have not lined up an internship or job for the summer, you can still make advances in your career by capitalizing on these opportunities.
Below is a list of activities that you can incorporate to enhance your career this summer.
- Join an industry association
- Industry associations are a great way to get noticed by future employers and familiarize yourself with your industry. There are typically discounted dues for students or recent graduates. Choose an association based on their membership and their recognition within your sector.
- Volunteer at an industry event
- If joining an association is not feasible, try using your spare time to volunteer for industry related events. Not only will this demonstrate leadership and ambition, but it will also put you in front of potential employers.
- Become a member of an international club
- Start building your network of international professionals by joining an international club.
- Take a language class
- It is never too early or too late to strengthen your language aptitude. Knowing how to communicate cross-culturally is a huge asset in your career.
- Do 10 informational interviews with future potential employers
- Informational interviews are a job hunting secret. Find people in companies that you aspire to work in and take them out to talk about their career. A steak dinner is not necessary, just a simple cup of coffee will do.
- Start writing a blog about topics in your industry
- Writing is an excellent way for potential employers to see notice your thought process and insights.
What other “extra-curricular” activities do you recommend to enhance your career?
No comments yet.