MBA Programs & Business Recruiting: Getting Creative
Post-recession economic conditions force MBA students and business schools to think outside the box in their job placement efforts, informs Geoff Gloeckler as part of the Bloomberg Businessweek's Best Business Schools 2010 Special Report. On-campus recruiting activity by employers has declined and business schools are now reaching out in unconventional ways to assist students in securing positions after graduation.
Employer Outreach Grows, Students Broaden their Options
Given the economic conditions, business schools must attempt to create opportunities for students by more aggressively pursuing employers outside of the traditional on-campus recruiting model. For some schools, this means bringing students to recruiters. For others, it means utilizing technologies, such as Skype, to connect students to employers. Business schools are also reaching out to alumni for assistance in placing job-seeking students.
Students must adjust their approach as well, and Gloeckler finds that those most successful are broadening their options beyond the emblematic position in finance. Students must now aggressively pursue several viable options in a variety of industries, locations, and job functions.
Fortunately, Gloeckler reveals encouraging indicators that the job market for MBAs is improving reporting that opportunities in health care and energy sectors are strong. One assistant dean of career services estimates that recruiting activity will fall back into place within two years. For now, MBAs and business schools alike will have to cope.
