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Anyone who did business management in college what was the very first job you landed relating to the course and how he/she became successful??

I'm a student at a tvet college doing Business Management N6

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Wong’s Answer

After graduating with a Business Management degree, my first job was as an HR personnel. The role gave me valuable experience in recruitment, employee relations, training, and administrative work. It also helped me develop important skills such as communication, problem-solving, teamwork, and organization.

One thing I learned is that success does not happen overnight. I focused on learning as much as I could, asking questions, and taking on new responsibilities whenever the opportunity came. Those experiences helped me build my confidence and prepared me for bigger roles later in my career.
Thank you comment icon Thank you for sharing your perspective. Nthabiseng
Thank you comment icon You are welcome Wong Loke Yuen
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Tian’s Answer

Hi Nthabiseng,

In my experience, the very first job you land after college doesn't always have to be directly related to your degree to be valuable.
I studied International business, but my first role wasn't a perfect match to what I had learned in school. What it did provide was exposure to different parts of the business, opportunities to work with a variety of people, and experience solving real-world problems. Those lessons ended up being just as important as any specific business knowledge.
My advice is not to focus only on finding the "perfect" first job. Instead, look for opportunities where you can learn, grow, and gain exposure to new experiences. Take the learning in stride, stay curious, and be open to unexpected paths. Sometimes the experiences that seem unrelated end up becoming the foundation for your future success.

Best of luck!
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David’s Answer

I earned a bachelor's degree in economics and a master's in business administration. My first job was in public management consulting, where I worked with government agencies at all levels. I started as a management analyst and, after ten years, switched to a technology career at Progressive. My success came from applying what I learned in my degrees to my work. I analyzed agency processes, identified waste and areas for improvement, and provided recommendations. I used my knowledge of finance, marketing, and communication to create effective solutions for clients in both business and technology.
Thank you comment icon I'm excited to put your great advice to good use! Nthabiseng
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Marlene’s Answer

My degree is in Business Management from Ohio State University. I attended career fairs at school and after several interviews landed my first job with a national office supply wholesaler. The company historically promoted from within and was trying a new path hiring college graduates into a rotational program. I took a risk with something new coming straight out of college and it paid off. I had the opportunity to lead people in a second shift warehouse/order picking environment along with visiting other locations across the country. I learned key skills of being fair and flexible along with the differences between union and nonunion shops.

While I never thought I would work in a warehouse and now for an insurance company, my advice is to have an open mind and expose yourself to new industries. You do not need to have an initial passion for the product of the company but be willing to lead people in any environment.

What I look for the most in employment is the culture of the company and how employees are treated. If most people you meet during the interview have been working there for +5-10 years, that is a good sign.

Finally, network...network...network! Talk to family and friends about your career goals. Someone always knows someone who can help you.
Thank you comment icon Thank you, Marlene for the advice. Nthabiseng
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Jane’s Answer

Hi! Even if you didn't major in Business Management, your first job doesn't have to be "perfect." Many people start in sales, operations, customer service, project coordination, or marketing. The key is to keep learning and seize growth opportunities.

Don't stress about finding the "ideal" first job. My career has shifted several times, and each role taught me valuable skills. Your first job can help you build communication skills, understand how businesses work, and find out what you enjoy.

Success isn't about choosing the perfect major or job. It's about being curious, asking questions, being reliable, and always learning. You're already thinking ahead, which is a great start. You've got time to build a career that suits you. Best of luck!
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Lokesh’s Answer

I went to business school while working and earned my MBA from Cleveland State University. This experience helped me see the big picture of how businesses operate, from finance and accounting to vision and marketing. The skills I gained have been invaluable in my leadership roles, whether managing projects or teams. Business school provides a solid foundation in various areas, so look for opportunities that excite you and match the skills you've learned. Don't worry if everything isn't clear at first; you'll grow and learn as you go.
Thank you comment icon Thanks for the advice. Nthabiseng
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Liz’s Answer

I was lucky to have the company pay for my education while I worked as a data analyst. After earning my degree, I was able to qualify for IT Help Desk Lead Support position. The communication and business management skills helped me in my initial role and every role thereafter. Every role in my career has benefited from the leadership and communication skills l learned in Business School. It was helpful to understand the big picture of how business is managed. I learned the skill to understand the frontline challenges in our daily work while also being able to take a step back and understand the importance of business objectives, direction and how what we do impacts the business success or not. Don't be afraid to volunteer for the task or project that no one wants. You may find out you like it. Always network throughout your career - don't wait until you need to. Any industry would benefit a Business Management student. The business degree is very versatile in any industry or role - is my key message.
Thank you comment icon Thanks for the advice. Nthabiseng
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Judy’s Answer

I graduated with a bachelor's degree in business, focusing on accounting. My first job was as an auditor. This degree opened many doors for me in my career. I've worked in various roles, including as a banker, company controller, accounting manager, financial advisor (selling insurance and investments), and mortgage lender. Accounting has always been my backup and the foundation for all my other jobs.

Judy recommends the following next steps:

Get a base education - life or your interests can change but make sure you have that fall back
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Cristina’s Answer

I've seen many people who studied Business Management start in entry-level jobs like Sales Representative, Administrative Assistant, Customer Service Agent, or Junior Business Analyst. What made them succeed was their eagerness to learn, take initiative, and keep developing new skills. They gained experience, built professional networks, and sought opportunities to grow within their companies.

As you study Business Management N6, focus on gaining practical experience, improving your communication skills, and understanding how businesses work. Your first job is just the start of your career journey. Remember, success comes from steady growth, not just your first position.
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Murat’s Answer

Although my degree is in Computer Science, I pivoted into IT Product Management early in my career and have spent the last 20 years working alongside business management graduates.

Most grads I've worked with didn't start in a fancy executive role. They landed entry-level positions like:

Business or Data Analyst: Turning raw numbers into real business requirements.

Operations or Project Coordinator: Keeping teams on schedule and making sure execution actually happens.

Associate Product Manager: Helping with market research, customer feedback, and feature priorities.

4 practical habits that drove their growth:

Murat recommends the following next steps:

1- Get comfortable with tech: You don't need to write code, but understanding how software gets built makes you a much better partner to technical teams.
2- Back up your ideas with data: Frame your proposals around clear metrics and KPIs rather than just gut feelings.
3- Connect the dots: Learn to translate big-picture business strategy into clear daily tasks for your team.
4- Focus on real value: Always keep the customer's problems and the company's bottom line top of mind.
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