Tips for Finding the Right Business Path for You

You know you want to go into business. But which field? Doing what? Perhaps you’ve already begun your career but are thinking of changing course and trying something different. We know that choosing your future business path can be daunting, so we’ve compiled our top tips to help you find the right business path for you.

Learn from business professionals

You can gain valuable insight into potential career options by interviewing professionals working in the fields or positions that interest you. Ask friends and family for contacts who would be willing to provide some career insights, or get in touch with a local business and ask if you could arrange an informational interview with one of their employees. You can also make useful contacts by attending conferences or talks on business issues. People are often more than happy to share their experiences and thoughts.

After talking with different professionals, you will have a clearer idea of which business areas to explore further. Try shadowing a business person for a day to get an idea of what their job looks like on a day-to-day basis. Shadowing is a great way to get a first taste of different professions or business positions that you think might interest you for your future career. An added benefit of taking time to meet with business professionals is that you will also be building a network that you can continue to call upon throughout your career.

Intern (or volunteer)

A natural progression from shadowing is working as an intern. Not only will this further clarify your understanding of a position and field, but it will give you critical skills and work experience that will eventually help you land a job.

Can’t find an internship? Volunteer instead. While working for free may not be as appealing as working for a paycheck, it will look great on your résumé. Plus, volunteering can also be less of a commitment, so, if you’ve got less time to spare, it may make more sense.

Take a business summer course

If you are looking for both direction and momentum -- whether you’re at the start of your professional life or changing course -- consider taking a summer business program such as the Business Summer School at EU Barcelona.

This English-taught, two- to eight-week program is adapted from EU’s MBA offerings, and provides students with an overview of key global business trends while developing sought-after soft skills. It’s an ideal way to pin down the areas of business which most appeal to you. Plus, of course, it’s a fantastic opportunity to live and study in beautiful Barcelona, one of the most dynamic and entrepreneurial cities on the Mediterranean coast.

To start your journey towards a successful career in business by gaining an international business education, visit the EU Business School website for more information about their programs and exciting European campus cities.