In an attempt to learn more about business, I attended an interest meeting for the corporation S&P Global Inc. The meeting, which required that I wear business attire, may very well have been my first step into the world of business. I was allowed to speak with representatives who work for their company about their jobs, and it was much different from what I expected. The primary focus of their experiences was not on the skills they practiced in classes but on the skills they acquired through communicating with people. This was a surprise to me, as I did not expect that charisma would be just as valuable a tool in the job market as a college degree.
The representatives, who were in their early 20s, first explained what their jobs actually are. Working for S&P, their task at hand is to “assess the ability and willingness of a company to pay back obligations in full and on time.” They gather information from management teams so that that company’s ratings are as accurate as possible.
While having the financial capability to complete their work is definitely a requirement, the representatives explained that your personality is just as important in gaining and keeping a job. Most of the people applying for the job have mathematical and analytical prowess, but the representatives explained that it is your own personality that sets you apart from those you are competing with. In interviews, you have to show parts of yourself that aren’t on your resume and sell yourself. Your enthusiasm for the job may very well be what earns you that position. When asked for career advice, the representatives said to be open and proactive and to seek mentorship.
Overall, I learned a lot from attending this interest meeting. I found myself very attentive to what the representatives were saying and became more motivated to enter the job market with high grades and an open personality. One of the great things about Baruch is that it has interest meeting from different companies all the time which truly allows its students to expand their networks and learn from experienced people. This is definitely one of the college’s aspects that I will find myself taking advantage of more in the future.