The dreaded question about my degree..

[blueidealist24]

I recently graduated from an Honours Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy. Originally, I took that major because I loved it and because I was strongly considering being a teacher. Now, I've thrown the teaching thing out the window because of the very dismal job prospects in Canada/the US. I'm looking for entry-level office administration jobs since they seem to be the only thing available for people without much experience in my area. However, the employers always ask why I took Philosophy if I wanted a career in office admin. I then end up having to explain that I didn't originally want a career in office admin, which I think makes them not want me as much for the job. It's basically me telling them they were my backup plan after teaching. Sometimes I don't mention teaching at all, but then that still leaves them scratching their heads as to why I took philosophy, besides that I like it (which some don't think is a valid reason). I sometimes mention that I may go back to a Philosophy Master's, which I might but am leaning toward not right now because I think it would leave me overqualified/underexperienced for almost every job as I have very little professional work experience, I've mainly done customer service jobs. Anyway, is there any answer as to why I decide to change fields that won't sound stupid or like I'm a flaky person who always changes her mind? I know most of my friends who originally wanted to be teachers did continue on with that career path, but they can't find jobs and work at places like Starbucks. They're lucky to get a few supply teaching days in a year. I don't want that to be my life, I actually want to start working at a full-time job, that's why I didn't go to teacher's college. I could always say that I was going to go back to teacher's college in the future when the job market is better (which actually could end up being true), and I'm looking for an office job in the meantime, but then the employer might think I'm somebody who will quit after not working there very long.

[redrose85]

That's what you tell them. That you want a stable career.

[followthelead]

Hi there,

 

You're story rings pretty true for a lot of people, I'm sure, and I think any employer worth their salt would understand that most graduates chose their degree because they like it, this is totally a valid reason.

 

However, when faced with this question, you could always say that you enjoyed philosophy and decided to take it further into a degree, and whilst completing it, felt that it wasn't the best for you as a career and that, once you'd graduated, you felt that you would be more suited in an office/administration type role. You still have a keen interest in the area and like to keep up to date, but now your focus is full time administration, because you feel it would be beneficial to you.

 

Also, any skills that anyone learns in a degree are totally transferable to any job. Attention to detail, analytical thinking, thinking outside the box as a problem solver etc, any skills that you feel that you developed whilst studying, and why they will help you in your daily work. And just the fact that you went to college to further your knowledge, makes you look like an enthusiastic candidate who is willing to work hard to better themselves.

 

I wouldn't say lie, but sometimes, sugar coating the truth is the best way. Employers want to know that you're hard working and willing to put the effort in, regardless of where you thought you were headed.. these are tough times, and employers should recognise that many will be turning to offices as other job opportunities diminish.

 

So when they ask a negative question such as why you don't want to continue the philosophy path any longer, ensure that you answer as though it's a positive question (why do you now want to work in an office, and in their office). And make sure to list the qualities you developed at degree level, as this is when others may have been in an office developing their skills.

 

I hope that makes sense, and good luck with the job hunt! Sorry if it's a bit jumbled, I'm pretty tired! If you want explanations, I'll come back later to clarify.

[seoulmate]

First off...training new hires costs cash and time. Employers want to make sure that what they invest yields benefit.

 

When you sit down for an interview the employer is interested in many things but in the front of their minds they are asking: do you have the skills, experience, and why do you want to work here?

 

If you try to smooth-over your philosophy degree by mentioning that teaching is what you really wanted to do. Or, by saying that you'll pursue teaching later, then every employer is going to pass on you. You are obviously looking at this position as a "temporary" opportunity to lead you to better things.

 

Here's a solution for you...and I think it will help you immensely.

 

Before you go in for an interview, research the company you are going to interview with first. Checkout their website, product lines, history and other opportunities in the company. Now, when you go to the job interview you are armed and prepared.

 

Instead of focusing on how your degree is not a "fit" you can start talking in future terms.

 

"Although I have a degree in Philosophy, from my research on your company I see several areas that I think I can fit into at a later time. I'd like to use this opportunity in the office admin position to to learn my way around and become familiar with the processes here. I'd like to use this position as a springboard to entering (insert department) in the future. In the meantime, I'm going to try to take more courses in my free time to better increase my skillset so that I can really help your company grow. And, if an opportunity exists in the future to advance in your company then I'll be completely prepared and am confident I'll be an ideal candidate."

 

You see...employers are not handing out jobs for the sake of employing people. They want to know what YOU can bring. So you have to focus on your strengths. Pick out courses along the way that you took that have helped you. If it's an office admin position then speak to your organizational skills and computer skills.

 

Don't let an employer think that they are an "option" for you. They want to be a priority. They want to know that when they train you that you'd really like to be part of the company.

 

So, when you research said company look for little things about them that match your interests and other skills.