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Professional Skills: Career MovesAs a Commerce student you will learn a lot of theory about the way organisations operate. However, when you move into an employment situation, you will be expected to have more than a knowledge of theory. For example, not only will you need to apply your knowledge to the job, but you will need to do so effectively so that you are successful in your role. You will also need well-developed communication skills so that you can interact successfully with all types of people and groups. Important skills you will require include: working to meet deadlines, conflict resolution, public speaking, the ability to research material, analytical and problem-solving skills and being able to implement projects within your work environment. How to Develop SkillsThere are many activities that can help you to develop these skills while you continue to study. The following list is only a beginning:
University ActivitiesThe University provides many clubs and social activities in which you can be involved. Most clubs set up displays during orientation week. Two of the more popular and well-known organisations for Commerce students are Commerce Student Association (CSA) and AIESEC. AIESEC AIESEC (pronounced EYE-SEC) at the University of Adelaide is one of the strongest local committees nationally, being awarded "Local Committee of the year 2007", "Excellence in Outgoing Exchange", "Exchange Participants Quality and Engagement" and "National Initiative" at the most recent AIESEC National Conferences (July 2007 & January 2008). If you would like to get involved, please see our contact details below. To find out more about AIESEC, please read on... AIESEC, the world's largest student-run organization, is an international platform for young people to discover and develop their potential to have a positive impact on society. In partnership with business and higher education, AIESEC has over 60 years of experience in developing students into globally-minded leaders. AIESEC's innovative development process consists of unmatched leadership experiences and global internships. We give students from any backgrounds international, regional and local opportunities to grow into global leaders, be it through personal and professional development, as well as through our international internship and exchange program. AIESEC offers avenues for students to develop the competencies they want to develop, paired with skills that make them uniquely able fulfil our vision of having a positive impact on today's and tomorrow's global society.
Students can also be involved at a School level. This is done by representing the student body on School Committees. You can learn a lot about the university, and meeting procedures, by completing a one year stint on a committee. The Commerce School requires a student on the following committees: BCom Academic Program Committee, BBit Academic Program Commitee, Assessment and Appeals Committee and School Board. The Commerce School also produces a Graduate Yearbook and students are encouraged to be involved in the student committee that produces this booklet. Work ExperienceA great deal can be learnt by going out to organisations and being involved in the day to day running of a work place. Work experience can reveal not only the expectations of a job, but can help you choose the specific area in which you would like to work.You should organise work experience carefully so that it meets your objectives. Negotiate your role carefully. The Careers Service aims to assist students obtain an understanding of their personal qualities, skills and values as well as knowledge of the labour market, industry sectors and employers. The service can also help students develop and implement realistic career plans, understand the process of career choices, as well as practical advice regarding writing resumes and cover letters, and interview techniques. The Careers Service markets the University's graduates to employers via Careers Fairs and advertises job opportunities via Faculty, School and Student Union Noticeboards, and organising on-campus presentations by major organisations and recruitment agencies. Check the Commerce Careers Noticeboard for job opportunities. Professional OrganisationsMany careers are represented by professional organisations that allow members opportunities to update knowledge and provide networking opportunities. You should look to joining a number of professional organisations while you are a student (it is cheaper) so that you can begin to interact with people who will be your future peers. These networking opportunities can also lead to work experience or jobs. The following lists some of these professional bodies and a liaison within the School of Commerce where possible:
Most of these organisations send out special packages to potential members. The CPAs and the Institute of Chartered Accountants also provide lectures, work experience opportunities and clubs that will enable you to make contact with people in your area of career interest. The Australian Marketing Institute runs seminars during ‘Marketing Week’ in August each year and appreciates student help. Non-Profit OrganisationsDo not forget the non-profit organisations when thinking of work experience. These organisations are often short of skilled staff and are happy to have people with management knowledge. Examples of organisations looking for volunteers include: Anglicare, Red Cross, and Conservation Volunteers Australia. It is alsopossible to do volunteer work for the University in a range of public areas, for example with Radio Adelaide, the Barr Smith Library and the Theatre Guild. The University actively encourages students to 'Get Involved' and join the growing community of volunteers who make a real difference to this University. Work experience, in some cases, can lead into paid work and the opportunity to network with industry people; awareness of community issues and adds valuable experience to your resume. International ExchangeThe University encourages and supports students including international study as part of their course. Click here to find out more about study abroad options. View profiles of past exchange / study abroad students. Public SpeakingEmployers are looking for graduates who can speak well in both formal and informal situations. Joining groups like Rostrum or Toastmasters will enable you to develop public speaking skills. As a Commerce student you will learn a lot of theory about the way organisations operate. However, when you move into an employment situation, you will be expected to have more than a knowledge of theory. For example, not only will you need to apply your knowledge to the job, but you will need to do so effectively so that you are successful in your role. You will also need well-developed communication skills so that you can interact successfully with all types of people and groups. Important skills you will require include: working to meet deadlines, conflict resolution, public speaking, the ability to research material, analytical and problem- solving skills and being able to implement projects within your work environment. 
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