Dear Career Advisor:

Do you think microbusiness management is a good course to pursue? I think it is, but I am wondering if I can get a job afterwards, rather than opening my own business? What do you think? Also, what type of job can I obtain?

Yours truly,

Shanille G

Dear Shanille:

You are correct; a course in microbusiness management is an excellent choice, especially in economies that are on the rebound from the effects of recession. In those environments, people who have lost jobs or are unemployed for other reasons typically try to find their livelihood in small business ventures.

A microbusiness management course is recommended for individuals who have business ideas they want to pursue or for people who already have small businesses and want to expand their operations. The course generally focuses on providing practical knowledge of business operations covering core aspects such as human resource management, accounting, financing, marketing, business planning, and operations management. It might also include aspects of financial analysis and investment, all geared towards fortifying the individual with the competencies required for the successful management of a small enterprise.

The versatility of the training will also prepare you for a wide range of job opportunities, as the skills acquired can be applied to any trade or profession. There should therefore be no difficulty in securing a job to which you could apply the skills you have learned in order to support the operations of a sole trader, a new business or an already established business. You could explore roles including, but not limited

to, office management, human resource activities, accounting, market research etc.

Additionally, after the completion of the course, you may want to consider doing a degree in the area for which you have the strongest interest to further support your quest for career advancement.

All the best.

Sincerely,

Career Advisor

Carolyn Marie Smith is interim assistant vice-president, Student Services, Northern Caribbean University. Submit your questions to her at careeradvisor@ncu.edu.jm.