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CAREER GUIDE 2016–2017
CLEMSON UNIVERSITY
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Advertising Account Executive
Air Traffic Controller
Artist
Auditor
Bank Manager
Business Systems Analyst
Buyer
Child Support Enforcement
Officer
Claims Examiner
Communications
Computer Specialist
Copywriter
Counselor
Customer Service
Representative
Editor
Employee Relations Specialist
Financial Consultant
Graphic Designer
Hotel Manager
Human Resource Specialist
Industrial Designer
Interpreter/Translator
Journalist
Law
Librarian
IDENTIFY YOUR SKILLS
SKILLS EMPLOYERS SAY THEY WANT
NACE Research
- Communication skills
- Interpersonal skills
- Honesty/Integrity
- Teamwork skills
- Motivation/Initiative
- Strong work ethic
- Analytical skills
- Flexibility/Adaptability
- Computer skills
- Self-confidence/Maturity
Information from the
National
Association of Colleges and Employers
How do you market these skills? One key to obtaining that first
job offer is to think like an employer. What would you want in
a prospective employee? Interpersonal skills such as honesty
and reliability are important. Communication skills, along
with critical thinking skills, are also in demand in today’s job
market. Try to anticipate the problems or needs of the company.
Newspapers, brochures, annual reports and company information
from websites are important resources for learning more about
potential workplaces.
As a liberal arts graduate, you may have to do more work than
someone who is majoring in nursing, accounting or any of the
technical degrees. You have to research different job markets and
find out where there is a demand. Conduct in-depth research on
any companies that appeal to you, and try to match their need to
your wants. You must be specific; it is possible to be too general
and too flexible.
What kinds of positions should Liberal Arts students pursue?
Many students are not sure how to answer this question.
Reflecting on activities, jobs and projects that you enjoy can give
you a starting point. Look for themes. Were you most satisfied in
activities where you were working alone or with others? Do you
prefer to use spoken or written communication skills? Once you
have answered these and other questions, look at possibilities for
matching your interests with a job. Do not get stuck on job titles.
In fact, forget about the titles and look at the job descriptions.
As you create a list of skills and activities, consider where they
would be of most value. If you have too many options, prioritize
and just get started! It may be that you will have more clarity
after trying an internship or your first professional position.
While graduate school might be an option, it is not a requirement
for all liberal arts students.
Practical experience gives you time to assess the organization
and to demonstrate your personal skills and abilities. So when
someone asks you, “What are you going to do with your major,”
here are a few good responses:
MCC Research
- Communication skills
- Critical Thinking skills
- Interpersonal skills
- Leadership skills
- Technical/Computer skills
- Self-Management skills
Results reported by 77 recruit
recruiters who recruit at Clemson
University through a survey
conducted by the center.
- Summer jobs
- Campus activities
- Community activities
- Independent study
- Project or thesis
- Informational interviews
- Volunteer experience
- Internships
- Shadowing experience
- Part-time jobs
Sources for career information and experience:
Source: A handout from the
Job Search for Liberal Arts
Majors Teleconference
Management Consultant
Marketing Representative
Museum Coordinator
Office Administrator
Outpatient Therapist
Paralegal
Photographer
Probation Officer
Product Specialist
Psychologist
Public Relations Specialist
Quality Engineer
Recreation Administrator
Research Analyst
Restaurant Manager
Retail Manager
Sales Representative
Social Worker
Speech Pathologist
Stockbroker
Systems Analyst
Teacher
Technical Writer
Transportation Specialist
Underwriter
Urban Planner
Writer