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Ask Yourself What Your Perfect Job Is

Know your dream and what you’re passionate about advises Marcel Kalis, Head of Career Services at ESMT

By  

Fri Jan 21 2011

BusinessBecause
Imagine going to a job interview with complete confidence, plenty of practice, knowing exactly what you’re looking for. That is what the career service at the European School of Management and Technology (ESMT) aims to provide to all its students. And in charge of the effort is Head of Career Services, Marcel Kalis.

In this interview Kalis explains what recruiters expect, and what approaches ESMT is using to send better-equipped students into the corporate world.

For starters, Kalis stresses the importance of students knowing what they want to do. He suggests doing plenty of research to find the right school and the right program. “They [prospective students] should go to schools and visit campuses. They should also think about what would give their career a boost, and look at what the school has achieved.”

When it comes to jobs, he recommends students ask themselves what their perfect job is, what their dream is and what they are passionate about; and then stick with their decision!

“Students on ESMT’s one-year MBA program need to start applying for jobs during the summer – around four to five months before they graduate. Since 2006, when the MBA program first started, we’ve been happy to register that over 90% of the graduates have made a successful transition within 3 months of graduation

Recruiters like to see what the candidate has done before, adds Kalis.

“An MBA alone cannot lead to a job and, for students looking to remain in Germany, they must realise that some German companies are slightly conservative. Recruiters look at past performance and for connections. For example, if you want to enter finance, with no finance experience at all, it will be very difficult to land your job. If you target something you have experience in, the chances of getting a job are better.”

ESMT Career Services provide candidates with one-on-one career counselling sessions, which get extremely positive feedback from the class.

The school also introduced its unique and innovative “Art-Coaching” in 2010, and will publish a paper on the technique early in 2011.

“We practice interviews so candidates can make all the mistakes that they want to…This of course, doesn’t guarantee a job in the end, but it does help.”

ESMT Career Services also offer a corporate mentoring program with some of ESMT’s associated companies and organisations. It can open doors for students.

“It connects students with mentors in different companies and organisations. It helps students reflect on what kind of long-term employment they want. They meet their mentors either at school or in their companies, many of which belong to ESMT’s circle of founders.

“Sometimes of course, the mentor may open doors career-wise… if students play it right.”

So as Head of Career Services, what innovative approaches is Kalis taking to help his students find jobs?

“We do our bit by being very pro-active with client relations. The MBA class is small – we have just 40 students – so we are able to provide personal focus on students and give them a one-on-one service.

“We try to create inspiring circumstances for students, and we also use more internal faculty with career service prospects – we involve everyone in everything we do.”

One example of “inspiring circumstances “ was when ESMT was chosen by General Electric (GE) as one of three European business schools to have a live satellite-connected broadcast with GE’s office in Michigan. Students from Berlin were able to directly communicate with the GE CEO in his United States office.

Having been founded by 25 leading German companies, building relationships is a way of life for the team running ESMT. “We are making efforts to build relationships – and that never stops! This opens a lot of positions for students. For example, 40% of our alumni are connected to one of our founding companies.”

For those looking to step into the corporate world soon after an MBA, Kalis offers three tips to get you moving.

“Two things are very important. Students need to practice interviews, practice applying, and get feedback from their peers.

Secondly, candidates must be prepared with the right answers.

Thirdly, he adds, many recruiters use social media like LinkedIn and Xing (which is popular in Germany) to search for talents. “So no matter what, students should be prepared!”
 

Student Reviews

ESMT Berlin

Prithivi

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29/04/2019

On Campus

Well qualified professors and great connectons with the industry

Well structured programs, great facilities and very good career development team. The alumni relations with the school are great and well maintained and fostered. Overall a great school right in the middle of Berlin.

Yannick

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14/10/2024

On Campus

Memorable college life

The European School of Management and Technology creates a remarkable setting where students can excel. I admire this school for its dynamic community, which is filled with enthusiasm, pride, and countless opportunities. The campus, with its rich history and traditions, is truly beautiful, and the spirited atmosphere is invigorating. The social life and events on campus are fantastic, allowing for friendship and connections among students. Although the academics can be tough, they are incredibly beneficial and worthwhile. The encouraging faculty and involved student body foster meaningful connections and lasting friendships.

Student

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5/11/2024

On Campus

Enjoy every moment

The European School of Management and Technology has completely exceeded my expectations. I was blown away by the quality of education here and how much I have learned in such a short amount of time. Every class is made incredibly exciting by the passionate and knowledgeable professors who go above and beyond to ensure that we are fully engaged and learning. I never thought I would enjoy studying so much, but thanks to this school, I am constantly motivated and eager to learn more. The hands-on approach to learning and the challenging yet supportive environment have truly made my educational experience here far better than I could have ever imagined.

Student

Verified

5/11/2024

On Campus

Bringing excitement to the class

Studying at the European School of Management and Technology has exceeded all my expectations. I thought I was just signing up for a solid business education, but what I got was so much more. Every class is dynamic, with professors who are not just academics but actual leaders in their fields, bringing real-world case studies and fresh insights into every discussion. They make even complex topics exciting and easy to understand by linking theory to what’s happening right now in the global business world. The interactive approach, combined with a diverse group of classmates, makes every class feel like a new challenge and opportunity. I never imagined learning could be this engaging and inspiring.

Student

Verified

5/11/2024

On Campus

Impressed by quality

ESMT Berlin has been a revelation! I was drawn to its top-tier rankings and location in Germany's vibrant capital, but the experience has shattered my expectations. The education here is exceptionally practical, with professors who are renowned experts and industry veterans. Each class is a high-energy, interactive session that tackles real-world challenges, from strategic innovation to digital transformation. I'm constantly impressed by the diversity of perspectives and expertise among my classmates, who hail from over 50 countries. ESMT's focus on leadership development, entrepreneurship, and social responsibility resonates deeply with me.

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