6 job search strategies for MBAs

Ready to launch a dynamic career—one where you can hop from one complex problem to the next as you follow your interests, lead the way with potentially life-saving innovations and help positively shape the future of health? Here are six job search tips to help MBA students get there.

1. Kickstart the process as early as possible

Most MBA programs last two years, but prep work for the inevitable job search should begin on day one. And, literally, it can—because in industries like finance or consulting, for example, recruiting firms often show up on campus soon after you arrive.

Another piece of advice: Treat your classmates as the colleagues and professional references they very soon will be. And be sure to spend time outside the classroom each day researching and learning about the latest news in the area you intend to specialize in. Being able to demonstrate a highly nuanced, up-to-date understanding of your focus area will pay dividends down the line when you meet with recruiters, hiring managers and potential employers.

2. Prioritize passions and interests over ROI

The high cost associated with advanced education in the U.S. compels many MBAs to seek out the highest-paying jobs possible immediately after graduation. But that’s not necessarily the best approach if your plan is to launch a successful, enriching career path—one in which you’ll impact people’s lives and continually be challenged to grow by taking on real-world challenges.

At Johnson & Johnson, for example, you’ll join a team of passionate innovators who are taking on the most pressing healthcare issues of today while unlocking the transformative medicines of tomorrow. You’ll become part of a richly inclusive workforce, organized around the values in Our Credo, where everyone is welcome to be their authentic selves. And because we’re the largest and most diversified healthcare products company in the world, you’ll open the door to many career paths, rather than confining yourself to just one.

3. Make the most of MBA recruiting events

Think of recruiting events as information-gathering opportunities. That means the focus should be less on you than the company itself. So be prepared to ask questions: What kind of employee benefits does the company offer? Does it make mentoring a priority? What about volunteer work and PTO? How is the company supporting work/life balance?

And when it comes time to share your interests and background, you should prepare a short pitch to deliver to recruiters. After summarizing your background, shift the focus to your professional purpose—a short overview of what you’re looking to achieve and how your background has prepared you to get there. It’s fine to keep this part of the conversation relatively brief (say, less than five minutes).

Once the conversation is winding down, be sure to exchange contact information with the recruiter. This will allow you to follow up and have a more in-depth conversation about the opportunity as well as your candidacy.

On that note, if you’re eager to connect with Johnson & Johnson at an on-campus event, check with your career resources center to find out when we’ll be visiting your college or university.

4. Leverage your whole network

Your alumni network isn’t limited to peers in your MBA program. For example, if you’ve built strong relationships with professors or deans, touch base with them—and don’t be afraid to ask for guidance. Plus, be sure to take advantage of alumni directories, clubs, organizations—all of the networking opportunities your school has to offer.

In a similar vein, if you’ve identified companies that interest you, why not search on LinkedIn to find people from your school who currently work there (and send them a politely worded message, if so)? Finally, since we’re talking about how to leverage your entire network, don’t overlook the potentially valuable contacts you may have made as an undergraduate.

5. Prioritize ongoing learning and development

Fresh out of B-school, many recent grads are looking to land mid-level junior management roles—and that’s fine. But you should be aware that there are other pathways available to you, such as the Leadership Development Programs (LDPs) at Johnson & Johnson, which can accelerate your career growth. Notably, our LDPs not only provide you with ongoing training and professional development, but also expose you to real-world business, expose you to multiple sectors and functions and give you opportunities to shape the future of health.

6. Join our team today

With these tips in mind, your job search should be off to the races. Plus, if you’re looking to make an impact in the lives of people everywhere while building your career with a company that lives its values every single day, check out all of the opportunities to join us.