Mind Mapping Your Way To A Career After College

If you’re a new grad, creating a mind map can help you spend intentional time searching for the type of job you want. If possible, start this process early, at least a year before graduation. Get clear on the job title you’re aiming for and find several jobs that could benefit from your skillset and background.

Then, read the job descriptions very carefully. Break down each part of the description, line by line, and identify five main skills that the employer is looking for. Use online tools to annotate the text; consider highlighting each skill or responsibility with a different color to help you distinguish them as separate skills that need your attention.

Now, you are ready to map your way into a position you will love. Create a free account on Venngage, an online infographic site or use an old fashioned pen and paper to map the features of the job description, connecting the skills required to your background experiences and your potential areas of growth.

Building your mind map (refer to above image):

1. Place the job title in the largest bubble or square on the left side of your mind map.

2. Create additional spaces that branch from the original job title bubble.? These spaces will be designated for each of the job skills/responsibilities listed in the job description.

3. For each skill in your background, draw a branch and create a new bubble noting your work experience and projects connected to that skill. (You will use this on your resume, cover letter and in the interview.)

4. For each skill that you need to develop, draw 2 branches and 2 bubbles. (refer to above image). Ask yourself how you can acquire the new skill. You may find that you need to:

• Volunteer or join an organization that will allow you to gain the skills.
• Network: talk with professors, ask friends, undertake an informational interview with an expert in the field, shadow an expert.
• Take classes you haven't yet considered or educate yourself through online certification programs or through independent research.

5. Make an action plan for each skill that needs development by listing goals, milestones and dates to help you further develop your experience and marketability.

6. Once you have been successful with your action plan, revise your mind map, so you can visualize why you are the best candidate for the position. Finally, use the map to prepare talking points and anecdotes for the interview process.

• Prepare an anecdote about any successes or data you have that correspond with the job's desired/required skills.
• Prepare examples of ways you can benefit the company (i.e. how you can increase users, revenue, etc.)
• Research the company thoroughly to show how you can fit in or expand their community.

Check out our free Interview Like a P.R.O. video course for more help with job interview preparation.

Article written by YVETTE J. GREEN.