Guide to Getting a Job with an MBA and No Experience

A recent tech graduate who wasn’t getting a good job offer with a high enough salary to my liking. And I thought, can I do an MBA degree? And do I get a job after that?

And when I searched online, many had a view that I shouldn’t do it – not without a few years of slogging elsewhere.

But hear me out – it is a myth that an MBA degree with no experience will lead you nowhere because you can always get a job and a good stable career even with no experience.

And so, after I did an MBA, I began my job search – and this article will help you know how you can too! Your MBA surely does pay off efficiently given you know how to put it to use. 

1. Here is what I did when I applied for Jobs after my MBA

1.1. I Did not Start with Sky-High Expectations

 Yes, do not aim for the sky on day 1. This is a slow and steady process and it will take time to climb the ladder and reach the top. I applied to many many job opportunities – and waited.

I knew I was already filtered with the help of your MBA so a part of the ladder is already conquered. I did not shy about starting small, because if you excel at small things, you will very quickly do more.

1.2. I also looked for Internships

I did get a job later on but that did not stop me from looking for good internships. Although these are not long-term solutions, I feel these can build your portfolio.

Good internships also provide training with commitment and time-sensitive environments.

For me, it helped me try various fields and narrow down my options to choose the long-term final job after my MBA.

1.3. I kept on adding certifications and qualifications

Try learning ancillary courses that complement your MBA – I did the same.

I also chose a sub-course of my MBA specialization which helped me set out from the pool of candidates in the same stream.

The Icy Whiz team talked to Jarir Mallah, HR manager at Ling App, about the most effective steps for recent MBA graduates to secure a promising career. Here is what he said:

“As a Human Resources Manager at a rapidly growing startup, Ling App, I’ve seen the critical difference certain strategies make for recent MBA graduates when it comes to securing fulfilling jobs and advancing their careers.

The first recommendation I have is the value of crafting a powerful personal brand, which involves articulating your transferable skills, creating a consistent narrative, and promoting these strengths on platforms like LinkedIn.

An impactful personal brand helps candidates stand out, even with little work experience.

Secondly, MBA graduates should build strategic networks. Engaging with professional groups, attending industry conferences, and leveraging alumni connections can lead to meaningful relationships that open job opportunities.

In today’s digital age, online networking platforms also offer immense potential, and harnessing these effectively is crucial.

Finally, actively seeking internships, volunteering roles, or part-time roles relevant to their field can supplement their academic knowledge with practical experience. These opportunities often provide valuable insights and professional connections that can be leveraged during job hunts.

Remember, every journey is different, so it’s okay to continually refine your strategy as you gain more insight into your career aspirations.”

1.4. I invested time on making an excellent resume and cover letter

What leaves your first impression on recruiters is your resume and cover letter.

In my applications, I provided all details and everything that is important or which is something I wanted the recruiter to not miss at any cost.

While drafting my cover letter, i customized it for all the different roles that I was applying to each, stating why I would be a good fit for that post.

In an interview with the Icy Whiz team, Denise Fowler, the Founder and Career Coach at Career Happiness Coaching, discussed effective strategies for recent MBA graduates to land a job without work experience. Here is what she said:

“While the allure of high salaries and prestigious titles is strong, MBA graduates should focus on gaining crucial skills and expertise that are most valuable to develop early in their careers.

By examining job descriptions, networking with mid-career professionals, and analyzing LinkedIn career paths, graduates can map out pathways that facilitate skill acquisition and offer growth opportunities. 

By strategically assessing their present circumstances and future goals, they can more effectively choose roles that enhance their potential.

Although there could be short-term sacrifices by focusing on “in-kind” benefits, it can ultimately lead to more substantial long-term career success and financial rewards.”

1.5. I made appropriate use of my contacts 

All the contacts and networking that I acquired in my business school while I was pursuing your MBA came in handy now.

MBA alumni and networks lead to high places. Keep in mind to look for appropriate referrals, recommendations, and people with influence in the hiring process.

Mail, message and meet them and keep them updated that you have completed your MBA and you’re looking for a job through all means to make sure that they inform or recommend you whenever they find a suitable position. 

Steven Mostyn, CHRO of Management.org, talked to the Icy Whiz team about the most effective strategies for recent MBA graduates. Here is what he had to say:

“As a Human Resource Officer, I would advise recent MBA graduates with little to no prior work experience to focus on several key strategies to secure fulfilling jobs and advance their careers.

First, leverage your MBA network, including alumni, professors, and peers, as these connections can provide invaluable job leads, recommendations, and industry insights.

Engaging actively in networking events and professional associations related to your field of interest also increases visibility and opens up opportunities.

Second, emphasize any internships, projects, or case studies completed during your MBA program. Highlight your contributions and the skills you developed, as these practical experiences are highly relevant to potential employers.

Tailor your resume and cover letter to align with the job requirements, demonstrating how your academic experiences make you a suitable candidate for the position.

Third, consider entry-level or rotational programs designed for MBA graduates, which provide a broad experience across various functions within a company. These programs are excellent for gaining practical experience and understanding where your skills best fit.

Lastly, maintain a mindset of continuous learning and self-improvement. Whether through formal certifications or informal learning, staying updated on industry trends and enhancing your skills will make you more competitive and better prepared for career advancement.”

1.6. Orient Yourself and Clarify what are you Looking For 

Have a clear and concise goal in your mind, and know what you want.

You should be so convinced of the same that when you are sitting across a recruiter you can explain to them why you are the perfect fit for the role and why you want to apply for the same.

Recruiters like people who are clear about their choices, who are concrete in their words, who can keep up with their commitments, and who provide excellent subject insight and knowledge. 

Kelli Anderson, Career Coach at California Commercial Insurance, shared her views on effective strategies for recent MBA graduates to land a job without work experience. Here is an excerpt from the interview:

“Recent MBA graduates can start networking with other professionals in their desired field by joining associations and groups where leaders “hang out.” Get to know people in business who have strong networks and offer to support them. 

This could mean working a few hours on a project for them or volunteering at an event. When others begin to see that you’re a professional with a desire to learn and help, they’ll be more likely to think of you when a new opportunity comes up.”

2. What Entry-level Positions can you apply for after your MBA?

There are numerous entry-level jobs that you can apply for the eligibility for which you clear right after getting your MBA and the following are some of the best options.

2.1. Sales and Marketing Manager 

After you have done your MBA in the specialization of Sales and Marketing you can very well apply for the managerial post in any established company.

These jobs require satisfying the customer accounts on the sales and marketing fronts.

The job also involves trend and customer analysis, providing targeted marketing, and eventually helping the client to reach good overall sales. 

2.2. Product Manager

This is an entry-level job that you can secure after a wide variety of MBA domains like finance or marketing.

This role involves the generation of profit for a company while keeping your focus struck on one product or product line.

It involves complete analysis and study of the market and the competitors, along which choosing the best way to gain maximum profit earliest.

2.3. Web Designer

 Anybody who has completed an MBA in IT or some technology can apply for this position.

A very versatile job that helps you stay in touch with your creativity.

A very fast-growing job with fixed clients and a lot of other benefits like choosing the time you want to work for, having freelancing opportunities along with the option of remote work as well. 

2.4. Human Resource Manager 

If you have completed your MBA in Human Resources you can apply for the position of Human Resource Manager; this is a role that is well suited for people who are into recruiting and can work well with people.

It is a role that gives you quick growth up the ladder and scope for good and early positions.

2.5. Financial Analyst

After you have completed your MBA in Finance you can apply for the Financial Analyst role, which is a high-demand role in a lot of companies specifically insurance-related, banks, and security firms.

These are very high-demand roles currently and there is a lot of demand for financial analysts in the market with low to no experience too.

2.6. Customer Relations and Consultancy

After you have finished your MBA, this can be a great choice. In fact, I interned at one of these consultancies after my MBA. Maintaining good relations with all customers on board and providing due diligence are among the top things required, along with providing strategic solutions to their problems. 

I hope this article has shed some light on what you can do after your MBA, what certifications you can add to your resume, and what jobs you can look for. And I hope my experience can guide you too to make better choices.

Guest Author: Saket Kumar

Last Updated on June 4, 2024 by soubhik