Charting a Successful Business Career

Considering a career in business? Browse your options

You have the degree. You have the entry-level experience. But how do you chart a successful business career? Here are some helpful tips.

Define Your Mission Statement
It all starts with you. What fields of business are you interested in? What are your life and career goals? Write a personal statement that outlines where you want to be in six months, one year, five years and ten years. Choose a career path that supports these goals.

Research the Industry
Market research might sound like a good idea while you’re in school, but have you fully explored that section of the business industry. What about accounting? Explore areas of business that interest you. Talk to people in the industry. Find out the likes and dislikes. Understanding the big picture will help you make an informed decision of whether a particular area of business is right for you.

Learn to Speak
Business has its own language. Learn the ins and outs of different areas such as accounting, finance and marketing, and you’ll be able to work with professionals from all areas of expertise.

Be a Leader
Companies need effective leaders. Being a leader doesn’t always mean that you’re giving other people orders. You need to know how to lead regardless of your position or place in a company. Even if you are the lowest employee in the chain-of-command, look for opportunities to show leadership potential.

Be a Team Player
Successful businesses are made up of quality employees who work together toward a common goal. Show your boss that you are a team player. Demonstrate how your skills are an asset to the team you are assigned to.

Pay Your Dues
Proving yourself and paying dues is a reality of the business world. No one starts at the top. Be prepared to show what you’re capable of and people will take notice.

Expand Your Skills
Looking to move up in your company? You may find yourself in a position where you need to increase your level of education so you can change your position in the professional sector. Graduate-level certificates and similar professional programs allow you to learn the basics of new areas of business. This expansion of skills and abilities may play a crucial part in your next performance evaluation.

Go Global
The world is getting smaller and more interconnected every day. Want to keep up with the state of global business? Learn a foreign language such as German or Spanish. Even if you don’t plan on focusing on international business, make yourself aware of what’s happening in the world.

Remember to Network
It’s not always what you know, but sometimes who you know too. Professional contacts can open doors and get you interviews. How do you find these contacts? Through networking with professors, fellow students and alumni of whatever business school you attend. Many professionals were once in your shoes and are more than willing to help you out. Take advantage of mixers and social networking events to build your own base of contacts.