You’re an economics major. How do you know which job titles to pursue?

First, it is important to identify your area of interest in economics (in order to avoid burnout if you end up choosing the wrong field). It can be econometrics, microeconomics, macroeconomics etc. To do that, perform your own SWOT analysis (this will assist you in identifying industries & market demand too). Second, work on some economic projects - either on live or dummy data to hone your statistical analysis skills. Third, try some virtual internships from websites such as Forage to get an idea on how you can apply economic theories in solving real world business problems. Networking & having an experienced mentor from your domain would be helpful too. These steps could help you in identifying suitable job titles in economics.

Think big and be bold - economics is more a way of thinking than a profession. Economists work everywhere from sports and health to law enforcement and military. Find a field that you’re passionate about and are willing to spend the rest of your life in. It’s a long journey!

In my experience, when deciding what jobs to pursue after graduating in economics, I took the time to reflect on my skills, interests and career goals. I identified that I had a strong affinity for data analysis and economic research, which led me to look for opportunities in research and consulting institutions. This self-assessment helped me direct my job search and make more informed decisions about my career path.

An Economics major opens up many new job opportunities. The most straightforward career path is to become an economist; however, these roles oftentimes require a master's degree or PhD. Instead, a career in high finance can be an excellent, lucrative path. Other careers include economic consulting and corporate finance.

Understanding one's strengths, interests, and motivations can guide career choices. For example, if you enjoy data analysis and predictive modeling, a career in econometrics, perhaps in a financial institution or a consulting firm, might be suitable. If macroeconomic policies and their impact on societies fascitate you, a career in government agencies or international organizations like the IMF or World Bank might be worth considering. Moreover, understanding your strengths helps you leverage them in your chosen field, while recognizing areas for improvement can guide your learning and development efforts. So, self-assessment serves as a compass, guiding you towards a fulfilling and successful career in economics.

To research market demand as an economics major, I would start by analyzing industry reports, government statistics, and academic research to understand current trends and forecasts in the job market for economics professionals. I would also look at job boards, company websites, and professional networking platforms to identify job postings and hiring trends within the field. Additionally, I could reach out to professionals working in the economics industry, attend career fairs and industry events, and consult with career services at my university to gather insights on the demand for different job titles and skills in the economics field.

During networking interactions, I can ask for informational interviews to learn about their career paths, seek advice on breaking into the industry, and inquire about potential job openings or internship opportunities. Building a strong network of contacts in the field can help me stay informed on market trends, gather career advice, and potentially secure referrals or recommendations for job opportunities.

Experimenting with internships allows one to get on practical experience. Some internships act as a gateway to securing a job in the organisation so it is also a good opportunity to understand the organisation as well as its work. Sometimes several academicians seek interns to aid in projects. These are short term assignments that are usually task based. One can use these to seek mentors that will not only provide more knowledge of the field but also help in gaining much more personalised learnings. As opposed to big organisations, such projects can enable deeper learning as there one can get more personalised time with mentors/teachers.

Experimenting with internships and projects is a great way for an economics major to gain practical experience, build skills, and explore different areas within the field. I can seek out internships at companies, government agencies, or research institutions that align with my interests and career goals in economics. Additionally, I can take on projects, research papers, or case studies related to economics topics to further develop my skills and knowledge in the field. By actively engaging in internships and projects, I can gain hands-on experience, network with professionals, and determine which areas of economics I am most passionate about and skilled in.

As an economics major exploring different career paths and opportunities, it is crucial to keep an open mind and be flexible in my approach. The field of economics is vast and diverse, with various specialties and job roles that may not always align with my initial expectations or plans. Being open to new experiences, opportunities, and learning from failures will help me adapt to changes in the field, seize unexpected opportunities, and grow professionally. By maintaining a flexible mindset and being willing to explore different paths within economics, I can discover new interests, develop new skills, and ultimately find a career that aligns with my strengths and aspirations.

To determine which job titles to pursue, it's important to consider your career goals, interests, and strengths. You may also want to research different industries and companies to see what opportunities are available and align with your skills and interests.