How should I start my career after receiving my online Master’s degree in Communications?

Congratulations! You did it! You have accomplished a great feat that most people don’t even try to tackle. You have spent your hard-earned money on a master’s degree program. You have dedicated the time and energy required of someone with determination and tenacity to get that degree. But, now what?

Take the Next Step

Your next step after earning your online Master’s degree in Communications is to get that dream job! It sounds simple, but in today’s market, the competition is enormous. What is going to make you different, stand out, or give you the upper edge over your competition?

First things first, decide on specific goals that you would like to accomplish with a new career. Is there an area of focus that interests you or that you are passionate about? Do you have natural gifts or strengths in some areas but not so much in others? What motivates you? Are you a loner and prefer to work alone, or do you prefer the inspiration of others and work better with a team? Are you seeking a managerial position?

Lastly, decide what sort of company you would like to be employed by. Do they have the same vision and principles that you possess? Not only should you be concerned with what you can do for them, but make sure that they are a good fit for you, as well.

Prepare for Employment

Along with your online Master’s degree in Communications, here are a few ideas to consider when preparing to enter the world of the gainfully employed. To begin, at this point, either through your current job or by working internships, you should have collected many contacts and made good friends and acquaintances.

Now’s the time to call in favors and ask for help. Good references and good contacts will help you gain leads to available jobs or introduce you to “people who know people,” so to speak, to help you in your endeavors or at least get your foot in the door.

Construct a professional portfolio of your work. You will need to update all social media and, of course, your resume, in addition to obtaining personal letters of recommendation from your professors. Take great pains in applying correct verbal usage to all written and oral documents, for doing so says a lot about how much time and thought you put into it.

Perfect Your Portfolio

Since today’s field of Communications is highly based on visuals, it is wise to obtain professional headshots and photographs that showcase your talents, for example, meeting with a client, designing your website, or hosting a corporate event. Get busy creating an interesting and memorable business card to help with introductions.

Internships

Another impressive way to get a prospective employer’s attention is to showcase your leadership skills. Often, through internships or volunteer work, you will have the opportunity to “show off” your talents. If not, you may want to consider joining professional business groups or committees that are sponsoring a project that you can direct or organize to demonstrate your leadership skills while showcasing your communications and management capabilities as well.

This is also a good way to establish valuable contacts.

First Impressions

And perhaps most importantly, don’t forget the basics of making a great first impression. Always be prompt, polite, and carry yourself with confidence and approachability. You must dress for success. First impressions are everything; even your business materials, right down to your briefcase or ink pen, can reflect who you are.

Small gestures such as handwritten thank-you notes speak volumes about your politeness, decorum, and professionalism. If needed, brush up on your public speaking skills. Ask yourself what impression you want to leave and what differentiates you from all other applicants.

With the above tips and your master’s degree in hand, you will be ready to get the job you want.

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If you are interested in more information, please check out our Best Online Schools for Master’s in Communications degree programs.