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Autumn 2009 Issue

 

Job Hunter's Toolbox

“Terrible” is a good description of today’s job market, says Andy Chan, MBA '88, who until recently was assistant dean and director of the GSB’s MBA Career Management Center. But that doesn’t mean it’s impossible to find a job or change careers.

The right tools – from a strong network to a tailored resume – can make all the difference.

Here are tips from experts at the GSB and elsewhere on how to rise to the top even when the economy is at rock bottom:

The Big Job-Search Picture

Be Flexible

Think creatively about different ways you could reach your career goal. If the poor economy is blocking one path, find another.

Just Lucky? Understand the Role of Chance

When the stock market is doing well, more business school graduates head to work on Wall Street – a decision that can lead to significantly higher lifetime earnings than other career paths. What does this mean for graduates in a downturn?

Job Search Nuts & Bolts

Network Effectively

Meeting with people, talking on the phone, or exchanging email is more likely to get you noticed than simply sending your resume to a general address. Connections you make today can help you in the future – even if they don’t produce immediate job leads.

Tailor Your Resume

It’s worth the effort to make sure your resume matches the employer’s job description.

Promote Yourself Online

When recruiters search for your name on the web, what will they find?

Work with Recruiters

Executive recruiters can help your search, but don’t depend on them to find you a job.

Change Careers

It’s never easy to change fields, and it’s even harder when the economy is bad. Still, you may be able to pull it off.