Part of your student journey involves planning for your future career. While it’s important to keep your focus on your existing school tasks and activities, it’s always best to look ahead and be prepared, especially for something that’s such a significant step in your life. It takes a lot of effort, dedication, and inspiration to be able to develop a career path that you can put your trust and confidence in.
Now that we’re nearing the end of 2022, one of the best things we can do to achieve our career goals is to prepare for the upcoming year and get ready for all the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead! In this blog, we’ll give you a few tips on how you can plan your career effectively.
1. Build structure into your career path by setting goals
An advisable way to start building your career path is by setting personal goals to help you visualize your career. Another good thing about setting your goals is that you can look at your career path from a clearer perspective. You can also create a road map to help you organize your plans and goals, both short-term and long-term.
A good example of a short-term goal is to create a professional profile. There are lots of online platforms like LinkedIn where you can showcase your relevant skills and background, which not only helps improve your reputation, but also makes you easier to reach out to once you make yourself available in the job market.
2. Keep on learning and practicing
A lot of accomplished people have said that one of the secrets to success is consistency. That includes continuous learning and harnessing your skills to become a competent professional when you enter the job market. Never limit your learning capabilities inside the campus’s premises.
For example, you can do advanced research about the ins and outs of the industry you want to immerse yourself in. You can also get a grasp on how the job market is doing, and what other professions and industry-related skills you can explore.
Practicing your communication skills ahead of upcoming career fairs will also give you the advantage of projecting a sense of charisma and confidence, which attracts most employers. That goes for preparing for job interviews as well.
3. Build an on- and off-campus network
Once you’ve gained enough confidence and developed your communication skills, expanding your professional network will come naturally. Through your professional profile, it will be easier for you to introduce yourself to peers and colleagues. Having an extensive network is a must, especially in Canada, as it opens more opportunities for you as you progress in your career.
4. Expose yourself to career fairs and related events
One of the most effective ways to build your network is by attending and participating in events like career fairs and seminars. During these events, you will get to personally (or virtually) meet lots of professionals in different fields, industry leaders, and, possibly, your future employer! These events are also the perfect avenues for you to further enhance your communication skills. The next thing you know, you’ll be rubbing elbows with some of the best professionals in their respective fields.
5. Take advantage of your institution’s career-related services and programs
Of course, as a student, the best way to attend these events is through your school’s programs and initiatives! Don’t hesitate to reach out to your school’s Career Services team and inquire about the upcoming projects, info sessions, and events the institution may have. Remember that your school is here to help you grow and be the best version of yourself when you graduate. We wish you the best in your chosen career path!
The Toronto School of Management (TSOM) is an institute where you can be confident that ensuring the success of your career path is a priority. We have a dedicated Career Services team that organizes events and activities such as career fairs and employer seminars that give our students a feel for what the Canadian job market is like. We have also partnered with numerous companies and organizations for potential co-op placements so that our students can have accessible work opportunities after they graduate. Learn more about our programs here!
