For example—your knowledge about exercise might lead you to personal training or social media management for a gym. Another idea—your focus on a green lifestyle could direct you toward fashion design for a recycled clothing brand. “If you love binge-watching movies, you might consider a career in film marketing. Research suggests you enter a “flow state"—a period of intense concentration—when you do what you love, which is great for staying on task at work. [2] X Research source
Big Five: A test backed by science to measure 5 job-related personality traits. Myers-Briggs: A test based on psychology that identifies your unique strengths.
Consider this scenario—if you took a music theory class, your former professor might point out that you’d be a great songwriter since you made the best hook melodies. Another idea—if you used to work at a clothing boutique, one of your past co-workers might see you as a wardrobe stylist because you put together amazing outfits.
Values: “I want to work in a school that provides top-notch education to kids. ” Support: “I’d like to write for a comic book company with collaborative co-workers. ” Independence: “I’d like to open my own Etsy store so I have 100% creative control. ” Fun: “I want to be a voice-over artist for fast-paced thrillers. ” Feedback: “I’d like to be a product designer for a company where I get lots of input. ” Rewards: “I want to work for an entertainment company with a benefits package. ” Innovation: “I want to be a software dev somewhere that always offers new services. ”
A Day in the Life of PR Rep: 9 AM-10 AM: Answer emails and give companies quotes for services. 10 AM-12 PM: Interview my current clients and draft press releases. 1 PM-3 PM: Revise press releases and send them off to media outlets. 3 PM-4 PM: Create social media posts for my clients. 4 PM-5:30 PM: Discuss brand growth with my clients.
As a bonus step, send a polite message to an employee via LinkedIn. For example, write:Hi Kaitlyn,I noticed we have mutual contacts and saw you work at Sony, a company I’m interested in applying for. I’m wondering if you had some time to share what your experience has been as an employee? Thank you in advance for your consideration! Best, Michelle[8] X Research source
For example, a career counselor might take a “big picture” approach and notice that your accounting skills perfectly complement your love of cinema, so you’d be a great bookkeeper for a big movie company. Ask your friends if they have any career counselors or coaches in their network. If you’re currently in college, your campus’ career services center most likely has a career counselor. If you’d like to speak to someone about how to find a job and balance your mental health needs, search Psychology Today’s directory of career counseling therapists.
Remind a potential mentor of your history together—“I’ve always enjoyed when you visit for the holidays and discuss the projects you work on. I really look up to you. ” Bring up backgrounds you share in common—“As two Latinas, I know we’re underrepresented in this industry. ” Mention that you’ll make the process easy for them—”I’ll make sure our schedules match up and prepare all my questions in advance before we have our weekly meetings. ”
When you network, build goodwill by complimenting others and celebrating their achievements. Leave a comment like, “Congratulations on your promotion!” Engage with people’s content so you stay on their mind. “This is an excellent piece on understanding your customer base! I’ll integrate these tips into my UX practice!” Meet professionals in person to communicate even more effectively. For example, network at a conference, like a tech convention. If anyone lets you know about a job opportunity, make sure to thank them.
Stay “on brand”—use LinkedIn to discuss how crisp photography can elevate advertising copy and Instagram to present a “portfolio” of your recent work. Make sure to clean up your digital footprint. For example, delete any negative posts or pictures that aren’t appropriate.
Once you complete your classes and certifications, draw attention to them when you write your resume. They’ll definitely impress recruiters, hiring managers, and employers.
