CAREERS
Seeking guidance on career choices, skill development, or finding a mentor? Let industry veterans and expert recruiters Chuck and Jim lead you to success with crucial insights.
4 minutes
May 24, 2024
“How do I choose the right career?”
“How do I present myself at work?”
“What are the tips that I can use throughout my career journey?”
If you find yourself constantly asking these questions, you’re not alone. Many people, especially fresh graduates, feel anxious about their career prospects.
We can help.
Meet Chuck Green and Jim Garvey, industry veterans and expert recruiters at Accenture. They answer some of these questions to help lead you toward a long and illustrious career. One where you can truly shine.
What are the questions I should ask myself when evaluating a new role?
Jim: There are several. First, you need to consider whether this role makes sense for you personally, professionally, and financially. Are there learning opportunities and clear career paths? What is the overall culture like? Is it collaborative and result-oriented?
Chuck: It’s also important to think about where you want to be in your career a few years down the line. Do you want to be more of a generalist in your area, or eventually become a subject matter expert? Does the employer provide the opportunity for either?
What if I want to pursue a career that’s in a different direction from my field of study?
Jim: We’ve seen a shift in this direction, and it’s becoming more common. If you find a new career path that gives you joy and enables you to perform better, I’d encourage you to switch careers. Our priority is to identify the best fit for a role based on an individual’s skill set, extracurricular activities and leadership qualities.
Many new hires are choosing to upskill themselves and work in areas unrelated to their previous work experience or academic background. At Accenture, we embrace this trend.
Jim – Recruitment Account Manager, Philadelphia, US
How important are mentors throughout my career?
Chuck: Mentorships provide benefits for both parties regardless of the career level, but it can be incredibly helpful for employees who’re in the early phase of their careers. It’s always good to have a ‘safe space’ to discuss ideas and concerns to navigate the beginning of your career.
Jim: It’s also important to recognize that mentorship can come from anywhere. Keep a lookout for people who’re trying to reach out to you and help you with various aspects of your life and career. Value them and use their guidance accordingly.
What is the biggest mistake people make at the beginning of their careers?
Jim: One of the biggest traps is when students or recent graduates feel the pressure to find a job right after college. This can lead to accepting a job that they’re not genuinely interested in. Before they know it, they’ve become an expert in something that they never had a passion for, and a thirty-year career has gone by. They also start making money and buying things based on that income. It reaches a point where they’re unable to pivot or start fresh. I would encourage you to take your time to find an area of study or work that brings you joy in your day-to-day life.
Chuck: Talk to as many people and companies as you can and network as much as possible to find the right fit.
How will I know if the career I’ve chosen is setting me up for success? Is there a litmus test?
Jim: Determining that could take years, but it comes down to overall happiness in the role. Are you learning, being challenged and excited to get to work every day? If these sentiments are lacking, it’s probably a good idea to take stock of the overall role and start exploring or having conversations with your network, or mentor, to determine if a change is needed.
Chuck: A litmus test could be whether your career is adversely affecting your personal life or time spent outside the office.
What’s the one tip that will take me a long way?
Chuck: The two most important qualities you should nurture are adaptability and agility. As we know, markets are cyclical. There are peaks and valleys. Deliver your best work during the peaks when the times are active. Grow, adapt and learn a new skill during the valleys when work is slower, and the economic conditions are less favorable.
Patience and positivity are your best allies. As you build your career, embrace each task with enthusiasm, and watch as opportunities for advancement unfold before you.
Chuck – Global Executive Recruiter, Boston, US
Jim: Also, be yourself. Others will respond to your confidence and recognize the truth in it. You will be rewarded in the long run.
Bring your talent, passion and aspiration to Accenture. Explore diverse roles and build an extraordinary career. You could help change the world.