After graduating from LSE, you will be equipped with a strong foundation to excel in your chosen career path. However, it is important to remember that today’s professional landscape is rapidly evolving and so it is essential to build on your existing degree with further skills and a strategy to navigate your career in 2023.
Here are some key tips and insights to help you figure out your next steps:
1. Understand your values and non-negotiables
Before you delve into your job search, it’s important to take a moment to reflect on the things that are important for you. This can span from teamwork to small start-up culture, to learning and development or innovation. This is a great time to explore what kind of values your ideal organisation embodies and ask yourself the basics such as “where do I want to live?”, “how much money do I want to make?”, “is hybrid working important to me?”. Once you have your non-negotiables set, this will give you a strong starting point.
2. Leverage LSE resources
Take advantage of the numerous resources available to you as an LSE student. LSE Careers offers CV and cover letter reviews, mock interviews, and one-to-one support. You can find various resources and online tools on our website to enhance your career prospects. LSE’s alumni network is also available on LinkedIn or our Ask an Alum function where you can take your time in getting to know everything about our alumni’s experience.
3. Establish a personal brand
In today’s competitive job market, establishing a strong personal brand can make a significant difference. Cultivate your online presence by creating an active LinkedIn profile and curating a portfolio showcasing your work and accomplishments. Sharing a relevant industry highlight or articles on social media demonstrates your expertise and passion for the subject. It’s completely up to you how you choose to develop a consistent personal brand that aligns with your career goals.
4. Develop transferable skills
In addition to subject-specific knowledge, employers seek individuals with a diverse set of transferable skills. These skills include critical thinking, problem-solving, entrepreneurship and leadership. Look for opportunities during your time at LSE by engaging in extracurricular activities, joining societies, starting a YouTube channel, or taking on leadership roles. Seek internships, part-time jobs, or volunteering opportunities to help you hone these skills. Remember that you can pick up skills anywhere and they do not need to be directly correlated to the industry you want to start in.
5. Build professional connections
Attending career fairs, industry events, alumni networking events is a great way to connect with professionals and learn from a range of experiences. LinkedIn is great for expanding your network, especially if you are more comfortable with online networking. Remember to ask intuitive and personal questions and actively seek mentoring opportunities from experienced individuals who can guide you through your career decisions. It’s important to build your professional network as the longer you excel in your career, the greater the pool of resources and information you’ll have at your disposal.
6. Adapt to the digital age
The digital transformation has significantly impacted the way businesses operate. In 2023, it’s essential to be digitally fluent and adaptable. Familiarise yourself with digital tools, software and platforms that could be relevant to your field. It’s a great idea to develop proficiency in data analysis, coding, and digital marketing given their recent rise in demand. Stay informed about emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, blockchain technology, and cybersecurity as they continue to shape various industries.
In summary…
Navigating your career in 2023 requires adaptability, curiosity, and continuous learning, in addition to a proactive approach. Remember that your career will span over many, many years, so it’s important to remain open-minded when thinking about how to progress in your chosen field. Take your time with your job search and have fun along the way!
Explore what else is coming up as part of our summer offer – Your future. Your way.
