5 Common Career Roadblocks and How to Get Past Them

By Lindsey Plewa, Graduate Career Management Center Advisor

I’ve conducted thousands of career advising appointments with MBA and MS students. I love working with graduate students on all aspects of a job search: resume critiques, mock interviews, cover letter reviews, LinkedIn profiles, networking strategies, etc. Though each student brings their unique story to the table, the job search challenges that everyone encounters are strikingly similar.  Below are a few of the “roadblocks” I’ve heard and some quick tips on how to start getting past them.  

1. I’m applying online but rarely hear from the employer.

There is only a 15% chance you’ll land an interview if this is your sole strategy. Focus your job search on people, not postings. Register for a free LinkedIn webinar to learn more about how to leverage the vast network of professionals on LinkedIn to ensure your resume gets to the right person: http://learn.linkedin.com/jobseeker/ 

2. I’m a career changer and fear that my MBA/MS isn’t enough.

Get experience and expand your network by volunteering, working part-time or joining a professional association in your new industry and/or function. A few resources to browse for volunteer opportunities include MBA Project Search, Taproot Foundation, and Net Impact’s Job Board.

3. I know that I need to network, but I’m intimidated by networking functions. 

You’re not alone. Set a goal before attending (an example could be “I will attain at least 3 business cards tonight.”). This will keep you focused and help to reduce anxiety. Also, there are many ways to network. Consider setting up informational interviews with people at your target companies where you can ask questions and learn more about the company on your terms.

  

4. I’m not sure how to follow up with networking contacts or leads.

There’s a fine line between being aggressive and being proactive. Stop by during GCMC walk-in hours for quick networking questions: Monday-Thursday, 4-5pm and Friday, 12-1pm. We can give you some advice on how to follow up in a friendly, yet assertive manner.

5. I’m interviewing, but not landing a job.

Though you may be qualified for a position, there are many factors that can turn an interview into a job offer. Schedule a mock interview with a GCMC advisor to practice communicating your skills and strengths to a potential employer by calling 646-312-1330.

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Lindsey Plewa
Manager, Graduate Career Programs

Lindsey Plewa joined the Graduate Career Management Center at Baruch College in the Summer of 2012 as Manager of Graduate Career Programs. She primarily works with full-time MBA students where she provides individual career coaching and delivers presentations on career-related topics.  Previously, she was a Career Coach and Program Manager for part-time MBAs and alumni of the Leonard N. Stern School of Business at New York University where she managed a Professional Development Program for 200 students annually. Prior to joining NYU Stern in the Fall of 2008, Lindsey served as an Education Advisor at NYU’s School of Continuing and Professional Studies for two years. Lindsey holds a BA from the University of Massachusetts at Amherst and holds a MA and two professional certificates, one in Adult Career Planning and one in Leadership Skills, from NYU.