Some Simple Suggestions for Undergraduates!

I feel that everyone could use a small little read to reiterate some important things to do when it comes to preparing to get a job in finance/business/etc. So this is just some stuff I recently have been reminded to be doing and felt like sharing!

1. Know Your Subject

The majority of students who wants to obtain a job in corporate finance or finance in general have a solid basic knowledge of the subject, the markets and just the general studies. But few delve deeper than things they learn when reading the news and their courses. I would definitely suggest taking a moment to go to your library’s business and finance section and seeing some of the resources that are present. Hundreds of books about corporate finance/finance in general are waiting to be read and give a deeper understanding of what you will be facing and to help you sharpen your skills when it comes to interview and job time. For specific resources WSO has an amazing list of books that have helped me grasp a deeper understanding of finance in general.

2. Network (Easily)

Many people feel that networking is something that is difficult, but I would suggest that more people use Linkedin and the fact that we are college students. The chances that you can get a meeting with a higher ranking employee at a company for an “informational interview for a class” is extremely higher than as a person just looking for a job. Plus the fact that you can more easily access them after the initial interview or contact adds to your benefit whenever you are applying. Also network with the MBA and senior Finance students at your respective universities. These are people you can befriend and meet that are going into the jobs that you will be looking at 2 to 3 years down the road and can prove to be great resources (and hell you might make a friend or two). If you are still a freshman or sophomore I would definitely suggest finding a professor that has great industry credentials and taking all their classes you can, office hours, possibly research under. These professors can prove to be great mentors and help you get in touch with more people outside in the actual business world.

3. Diversify Yourself

This is the biggest thing. I find its pretty natural in all of the business majors to find people that have lots of fun and do many different things, but I would definitely point out maybe picking up an interesting hobby (kayaking/backpacking/skydiving/shooting/club sports) pretty much anything that will help you release stress and be a talking point. And if you get really good at your hobby it then becomes a possibility to add more awards and accomplishments to your resume. Become someone you would love to have a conversation with and who will be able to talk about a variety of topics with future employers, interviewers, colleagues, etc.

I know its not breaking news, but I just felt like it was a couple simple ideas that I have been thinking of lately!