We asked Alumni: How can students stand out and be more competitive?
Here is what they shared:
- Create a 90-Day Plan for Interviews
- Show Versatility and Drive
- Embrace Lifelong Learning
- Cultivate a Professional Track Record
Create a 90-Day Plan for Interviews
I wrote business plans for the company and the interview process to show what I would do in the role. Employers don’t want hypotheticals; they want to know what it would be like for you to be in the seat. Research the company. Make some assumptions about the role and build a 90-day plan with unique ideas for what you will do. It is a game-changer and helped me to secure new jobs and get promoted much faster than my peers.
Jake Dunlap, MBA ‘09, CEO, Skaled
Show Versatility and Drive
In order to be more competitive in the job market, you need to research what a company needs and be the person to fill it. It may take some persuasion, but if a company needs a certain type of employee, you can show them how driven you are to be that employee.
When you have a set of versatile skills and a drive to accomplish your goals, you will be unstoppable, and companies will see that. While you’re in college, take advantage of leadership classes and business courses, and join a variety of groups to help diversify your resume.
Also, make acquaintances with group leaders, professors, and other contacts. You never know when a good character and/or personal recommendation can help reaffirm what you’ve told a company about yourself. It may even be the deciding factor.
Alex Ebner, BS Markting ‘04, Owner, Ace Medical
Embrace Lifelong Learning
As CEO of a global job site and a college (Associate) Professor, this question is top of mind! One thing I would strongly suggest for current students to be more competitive in the job market is to embrace a lifelong learning mindset.
The job market is constantly evolving, with new technologies and ways of working emerging all the time. Staying curious and proactive about learning not only new skills but also about global and industry trends will make you a more attractive candidate to employers.
As an example, I attribute my curiosity and lifelong learning mindset as being the main catalyst that landed me a six-month Fulbright at Arizona State University in 2017. I was curious about the impact wearable technology was having in the insurance world, and I decided to dive into learning as much as I could about wearables and the data they provide. This learning mindset took me on a journey of researching this topic in depth and landed me the experience of a lifetime at ASU!
More generally, from my experience as a college (Associate) Professor, I know that many employers want students with this type of mindset, recognizing the importance of this attribute in today’s ever-changing work environment. Also, don’t underestimate the power of networking. Begin building your professional network early by attending industry meetups, joining professional associations, and connecting with alumni. Your network can provide invaluable advice, mentorship, and opportunities that are not accessible through traditional job applications.
Lastly, focus on developing both your technical skills and soft skills, such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. Employers are looking for well-rounded candidates who can contribute to a positive and effective work environment.
Dr. Mark Farrell (FIA), Fulbright Scholar (Department of Mathematics) ‘17, Founder, CEO, Associate Professor & Actuary, ProActuary Jobs
Cultivate a Professional Track Record
In my experience, beyond excelling academically, cultivating a robust professional track record is paramount for competitiveness in the job market. It’s imperative to immerse oneself in meaningful projects and early exploration of interests during college. This not only fosters personal clarity but also enriches one’s skill set and experiences. Dare to put yourself out there and embrace a diverse array of interests!
Such experimentation not only clarifies career aspirations but also adds depth to your resume, making you a compelling candidate with unique intersections. Remember, your journey at ASU is not solely about academics but about shaping a dynamic professional identity.
Nina Plunkett, BS Business Law & Supply Chain Management ‘21, Supply Chain Program Manager, Cisco Systems
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