5 recommendations for professional growth during the TMMBA Program

Susan Buysse, Associate Director, Career Services & Company Outreach

As TMMBA Class 12 students attended Orientation in December, we introduced new tailored features to the TMMBA career development program. Each student self-selected one of six groups that best align with career goals. Since 18 months moves quickly, we believe it is critical to start early with positive actions that foster professional growth.

Here are five initial recommendations:

1. Set a clear career direction
   This can be a difficult step but one of the most important. We share a framework to review values, personality traits, strengths, skills, and interests (really important). These results guide decision making on MBA career possibilities followed by individual planning.
2. Boost your personal network
   The art of networking is probably the most important career skill. Oh – the payoff! Since many positions are never formally advertised (do not want rush of applicants/prefer to be selective), you will uncover career opportunities with far less competition.In addition to fellow classmates, you will meet students and alumni from other MBA programs. Take advantage of these rich opportunities to practice and elevate this skill.
3. Reflect on your personal brand and identity
   It is important to know yourself (unique value/ strengths/weaknesses), your competitors, and target audience. This understanding builds and evolves during the program and is linked to leadership insight and capabilities.
4. Determine avenues to communicate your brand
   Your written repertoire may include a resume (that gets results), business card and professional biography. Most TMMBA students and alumni are on LinkedIn and other types of social media. We cover the principles and importance of being a well-represented user.Spoken elements are equally relevant as career stories create meaning and connection.
5. Think about your presence
   This is another key facet of relating and engaging with others. Since professional communications are part of the program, you will have neat options to think more deeply about how you show up.

This article from Forbes has a few related tips: 7 Ways and Why to Treat Your Career Like a Startup.