As an MBA Director there are two key questions I am often asked. The first is how to ‘land a dream job?’. Of course it’s important that you have appropriate qualifications and relevant experience on your CV. Yes there also are some typical top tips (usually seen on jobs boards) you can use to enhance your chances, but…….actually what is more important is understanding what the concept of a ‘dream job’ means for you. 

The definition of a dream job…

According to a 2016 OPP study, while 70% of people in the UK report to be satisfied in their jobs, only a third think that they are successful. In my view the idea of a dream job is one where you are both satisfied and successful. If you don’t feel successful (at least some of the time) then surely this must become quite draining and the dream would become a nightmare. 

Perplexed by these statistics I began to think about the definition of a ‘dream job’ and spoke to a few friends – all of whom I consider to be relatively successful. Among them they included an HR Director, an entrepreneur, a hairdresser, a GP, a teacher and a senior sales manager (who has never retired). Interestingly there was no consensus but the idea of wanting to do the job even if you were not paid was often cited. Few of us are in the position to do this but it is unusual to hear news of a lottery winner remaining in their role post win. Most people, even if they would stay in the same industry or profession would be likely to adapt the role in some way whether that is setting up a rival organisation, reducing working hours or doing something completely different. 

Landing your dream job: some advice

Given that we spend a large proportion of our limited time on this planet working, we should all drive for our individual dream jobs. My advice therefore is:

1. Really understand what it is that appeals to you about the role

This will involve looking at both yourself and being completely honest about what specific elements of the role appeal. If it is simply salary, beware! There are many periphery elements related to what you will be actually ‘doing’ on a day to day basis that you need to take into account. Another friend of mine became a dentist because it is a respectable profession, he was interested in medical related roles but didn’t want the long night shifts associated with becoming a doctor. What he hadn’t anticipated was his lack of desire to be sitting in a small room all day looking into mouths. While this all sounds quite obvious, it is surprising how blind we become to key aspects of a role and whether this fits with our personal preferences.

2. Test drive the role (or a few including those you expect to hate!)

Internships, work experience and making the most of a variety of client contexts offered in programmes such as the MBA (Master’s of Business Administration) is an invaluable way to understand the nitty gritty of the role. It is important to be open minded. You need to test drive the industry and once you know it is for you try a few different organisations because the cultures will hugely differ. You probably already know that this also means that you can speak with more authority during an interview!

3. Build up your Career DNA Bank

Bill Faust, author of the bestselling career guide Pitch Yourself, talks about the need to build up your DNA Career Bank. By this he means gathering evidence from everyday living to demonstrate skills and qualities that employers will value even if you have not got experience of the exact role. This is useful not only in terms of showcasing your transferable skills but also providing you with a good indication of which skills you enjoy utilising most.   

4. Be enthusiastic and reflective

If you are not excited about a particular role then do spend time to reflect on why. Being reflective is something we cover extensively in an MBA because it should become second nature. Appreciating when you are enthused in a variety of context is important. It will propel you to seek out those already in the role who may be happy to mentor you and it will shine through when you meet potential employers. 

5. Don’t be afraid to change

One thing to remember is that you may not be in your ideal position now but use this to identify and learn what it is you want. Too many people remain in roles that really are not for them. Be bold, listen to yourself and recognise new opportunities when they arise even in areas you previously thought were not for you. 

And the second question?

To end, the second question I am usually asked as an MBA Director is ‘will the MBA double my salary?’ My reaction is usually to tell them they asking the wrong question. Of course an MBA helps you see how whole organisations function in a variety of contexts.  They should also offer you the opportunity to demonstrate your own ability to perform . Most importantly however they help you understand yourself better so you can make a better informed decision about what the notion of a ‘dream job’ means to you – and then how to land it. 

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Jeni Stokes

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