Want to be a high flier and hold that position? MAG brings you tips on how to make it big and actually stick to it. Read on...
We spoke to a career counsellor and lecturer Mr Adam Jahanzaib, at one of the renowned universities of the city and he gave us a perfect game plan for making it big when there aren’t many job opportunities.
Plan it Early
“You shouldn't just wake up one fine day and decide that you want to be a… let's say… money-minting cotton fibre cloth manufacturer. While you are still studying, it is best to identify the field you are interested in and then just indulge with all your heart in achieving your dream. That involves choosing the right subjects and/or professional institution. For getting the dream job, right education and best education - not money wise but as in good grades - is really important. Remember, the early bird catches the worm!”
Internships
“There is nothing better than interning preferably in the field that you are interested in while you are still studying even if it pays zilch. Experience counts a lot. So don't waste those breaks (read vacations) that come in between an academic year. Work like a beaver!”
Polish Your Skills
“If you think you are not good at something that might help in getting your dream job, work on polishing it. For instance many people in our part of the world cannot speak good English. Fluent English is of utmost importance for
| Here’s Your Say |
Share with us tips on how to land the dream job and survive office politics?
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In Pakistan, very few people are appointed on merit. Those who are not well-educated, work their way up through intercession and a powerful source. It is very difficult to get your dream job without good education. As for office politics, only sound policies on the part of the employer can help get rid of this menace. Saima Hassan
By focusing on our dream, minding our own business, being reserved and working hard, we can land our dream job and survive office politics!
Maliha Chishtian
The key to deal with politics is to smile. Don't indulge in gossiping or excessive partying. Make less friends, stay neutral, smile and speak less. Just focus on your work and do it honestly. Struggle for your promotion. Trust me, you will stay relaxed and will be able to work better!
Dr Sundus Iqbal, Islamabad
We should mind our own business and should not poke our nose into others' work. We should strive to make office environment pleasant. If we will keep in mind that it is better to work as a team, then there shall be no office politics. Maryam Azeem, Lahore
Just by struggling hard you can be a master in your field. Bolay to guru! Mind your own work and don't interfere in in what others are doing. Keep out of politics and always keep your Allah and parents happy. Never think bad for others and try to help them in their time of need. Success will kiss your feet. Angelbird, Lahore
Be diplomatic. One of my cousins is working in a firm. When he joined, he said that he is so depressed because everyone seems to be pulling his leg. His father told him to be soft, gentle and diplomatic. These are the keys to survive in an office rife with politics. Aminah Khan, Lahore
Hard work, loyalty and sincerity can bring success. Don't poke your nose in other people's matters and you shall prosper. A1995
You can't get your dream job without intercession. To survive office politics, keep your eyes and ears open, be competitive and stay away from gossip. Saima, Karachi
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any job. Learn the language, even if it means going somewhere for evening classes.”
Social Networking
“It is important to develop contacts in your field of interest. Not for intercession and influence but to come to know of a vacancy when you are actually hunting for a solid one. Sign up on internet job boards; spread the word around; browse newspapers incessantly; call up friends who might have relatives in the related field and do that all while you are still in the final year or have just completed your education. Don't waste time on relaxing before jumping into real professional life. Time does not wait for anyone. Well, as you must have heard a million times, a stitch in time saves nine!”
Perfect Resumé
“Finally someone has recommended a vacancy to you or you have come across one in the newspaper, now what… you have to write the perfect resume. Many people do not pay much attention while writing their resume. I cannot summarise how one can write a perfect resumé as it will take up a lot of space. But you can always browse the internet for latest and impressive resumé and cover letter samples. Get the basic ideas and write your own. Work on it, get it checked by other professionals and your teachers before finally sending it over to the prospective employers.”
Practice for the Interview
“Almost all employers ask the same questions. So it is better to practice for the interview with a friend before going for it. Plus you should always have some information about the company that you want to work for. Do your homework!”
Settle for Less
“If you really want to fulfill your dream, don't expect to get the million rupee deal as soon as you leave college. Most of the time one has to work his way up. So if you cannot be the manager of the company, settle for being the assistant manager, then prove your mettle by working to get the promotion you so deeply desire. As they say, slow and steady wins the race. Take my word: your time will come!”
Be Apolitical!
“Ingrain these words in your mind: politics doesn't take one far. If you will employ underhand means to reach the top, the fall will be fierce and highly damaging not only to your career but also to your reputation. So it is better to be apolitical. Mind your own business. But don't let your work go unnoticed. Don't let others take credit for your efforts. The boss should know how deep you can swim. And believe me, the boss always knows.”
Congeniality Personified
“You should always share a highly congenial relationship with your peers and sub-ordinates. Do not treat anyone badly even if he or she is giving you competition. Learn to play your cards right. Always smile and put your best foot forward. Your work should speak for you, not your facial expressions and fiery words.”
No Gender Distinction!
“Women can go as far as men. They can be managers and executives. They can do all - so never, ever think that if you are a woman then different rules apply. You just have to have that go-getter spirit!”
