6 job search strategies for MBAs

Eager to collaborate with dynamic teams, hop from one complex problem to the next and help shape the future of health for all? For MBA students, here are six job search tips that can help position you up for success in your career. 

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.

Plus, because we’re the largest and most diversified healthcare products company in the world, you’ll open the door to a multitude of career paths, rather than confining yourself to a single one.

3. Make the most of MBA recruiting events

Think of recruiting events as information-gathering opportunities, with the focus less on you than on the company itself. Come prepared to ask questions. For example: 

• What kind of employee benefits does the company offer?
• Does it make mentoring a priority? What about volunteer work or PTO?
• What do employees say about work/life balance?

Since there will also be time to share a bit about yourself, you should prepare a short pitch to deliver to recruiters at the events. Don't make it overly complicated: Give a quick rundown of your background, then shift the focus to your professional purpose—what you care about, what you’re looking to achieve and how you aim to get there. It’s fine to keep this part of the conversation relatively brief (less than five minutes).

Before the conversation wraps, be sure to exchange contact information with the recruiter, too, which will allow you to follow up and have a more in-depth conversation later on.  

Finally, if you’re eager to touch base 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)? And, since we’re talking about how to most effectively leverage your entire network, don’t overlook any potentially valuable contacts you might've 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 all well and good. However, you should also bear in mind that there are many, many other pathways available to you.

Take the Leadership Development Programs (LDPs) at Johnson & Johnson, for example. These programs accelerate your career growth, expose you to multiple sectors and functions and ensure you're continually learning. Beyond meaningfully molding you as a leader, our LDPs should help put you on the fast-track to land opportunities in which you can shape the trajectory of health in the future. 

6. Join our team today

With these tips in mind and your MBA 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 day, check out all of the opportunities to join us.