Career Development in Your 20s: How to Chart Your Path to Success

The 20s is a crucial time in a person's life as they embark on their professional journey. This is a period of exploration, experimentation, and discovery. For students in this age group, it's important to have a clear understanding of the different career paths available to them and what it takes to succeed in each of those fields. In this blog, we'll explore the key steps that students in this age group can take to develop their careers and set themselves up for success.

Assess your strengths and interests

The first step in any career development plan is to assess your strengths and interests. This will help you determine what type of career will be a good fit for you. To assess your strengths, you can take a personality test or complete a skills inventory. To assess your interests, you can take career interest surveys or try different types of jobs through internships or part-time work.

Conduct research

Once you have a clear understanding of your strengths and interests, it's time to research different career paths. Start by exploring job descriptions and requirements, as well as salary ranges, growth potential, and educational requirements. Look for information on what type of training and certifications may be necessary. Take the time to research different companies and organizations in the field to get a better understanding of the work environment and company culture.

Network

Networking is one of the most effective ways to find job opportunities and get advice from professionals in your field. Attend industry events, join professional organizations, and reach out to people in your network who are working in your field of interest. You can also use online platforms like LinkedIn to connect with professionals and learn more about the industry.

Get hands-on experience

Hands-on experience is critical for career development. Internships, co-op programs, and part-time jobs are excellent ways to gain practical experience in your field of interest. This will help you gain a better understanding of the work, make valuable connections in the industry, and demonstrate your skills and commitment to potential employers.

Seek mentorship

Having a mentor can be incredibly valuable for your career development. A mentor can offer guidance, support, and advice on the challenges you may face in your chosen field. Look for someone who has experience in your field and is willing to invest time in helping you grow and succeed.

Keep learning

Learning never stops, especially in the rapidly changing job market. It's important to stay up-to-date with the latest trends and technologies in your field. Consider taking courses, attending workshops, and participating in professional development programs to keep your skills and knowledge current.

Set achievable career goals

Having a clear idea of what you want to achieve in your career is essential. Set both long-term and short-term goals for yourself, and make sure they are specific, measurable, and achievable. Consider what skills and experiences you need to develop to reach your goals and create a plan for how you will acquire them. Regularly reviewing and updating your goals will help you stay motivated and on track as you progress in your career.

Stay flexible

While it's important to have a plan and focus on your goals, it's also important to remain open to new opportunities and be flexible in your career path. The job market and industries are constantly evolving, and new opportunities may arise that are better suited to your strengths and interests. Be open to trying new things, and don't be afraid to make a change if you find that your current path is not fulfilling or aligning with your goals.

In addition to the steps outlined above, pursuing an industry-integrated PGDM program can be a valuable part of a student's career development journey in their 20s. This type of program can provide students with the opportunity to build practical skills, gain hands-on experience, and connect with professionals in their chosen field. Maharaja Agrasen Business School recently signed an agreement with Grant Thornton Bharat as a knowledge partner to provide technical education and skill development opportunities to students and professionals. The partnership will also provide opportunities for joint research, training and knowledge sharing.

Some of the specific benefits of an industry-integrated PGDM program include:

Practical experience: By participating in real-world projects, students can gain practical experience in their field and build a portfolio of work that demonstrates their skills and abilities to potential employers. For instance, Grant Thornton Bharat will offer apprenticeships, internships, and live projects to eligible students for no more than two months to students of Maharaja Agrasen Business School.

Industry connections: Industry-integrated PGDM programs often have strong connections to businesses and organizations in the relevant industry, providing students with valuable opportunities to network with professionals and build relationships that can help them advance their careers. This can lead to internships, job offers, and other opportunities for students to gain hands-on experience in their field.

Relevant curriculum: Industry-integrated PGDM programs are designed to provide students with a comprehensive education that prepares them for careers in their chosen fields. The curriculum is often developed in collaboration with industry professionals and reflects the latest trends, technologies, and best practices in the industry.

Up-to-date knowledge: The close ties between the program and the industry ensure that students receive up-to-date and relevant knowledge, which is critical for success in a rapidly changing job market. They learn about the latest trends, technologies, and innovations in their field, and are better equipped to handle the challenges and opportunities that arise in their careers.

Career support: Many industry integrated PGDM programs offer career support services such as job placement assistance, career counselling, and mentorship opportunities. This support can help students make a smooth transition from education to employment and get a head start in their careers.

Overall, an industry-integrated PGDM program can be a great option for students who are interested in pursuing a career in a specific field and want to gain practical experience and build a strong network of professionals. It can provide a well-rounded education that prepares students for success in their careers, and it can be a valuable addition to a student's resume as they embark on their professional journey.

In conclusion, career development for students in the 20-28 age group is about finding your passion, researching your options, gaining hands-on experience, seeking mentorship, and continuously learning. By taking these steps, you can chart a path to success and build a fulfilling career that aligns with your strengths, interests, and values.

About the author: 

 

Dr Supriya Sehgal is the Associate Professor at Maharaja Agrasen Business School. She is the Alumna of IIM Ahmedabad and has been awarded Program Director of the Year by ASSOCHAM and Education Post, 2016.