by Andy Shen

Created on: November 16, 2008   Last Updated: June 14, 2010

Career planning can be like match-making: a good "fit" is one that works well in both directions. Therefore, when considering a degree in business, it's best when the student is well suited for business, and business is well suited for the student.

The challenge: how to assess the suitability of a business career for oneself. After twenty-five years in business, I've seen many examples of a terrific fit. Without doubt, the best business careers involved individuals who had passion for all three business fundamentals:

1. Numbers

2. Words

3. People

Here are ways to help you gauge your passions in each area:

Passion about Numbers:

For many, the concept of being "passionate" about numbers seems a bit absurd. Nevertheless, the most successful businesses continuously track the organization's performance. Managers will hire - and promote - individuals who have excellent quantitative skills. The questions for you:

* Generally, do you enjoy math classes and other quantitative situations?

* Have you done well in your math classes?

* Can you imagine yourself being excited by mastering the detailed metrics of a business?

If you answered "yes" to the above, read on.

Passion about Words:

Words are the lifeblood of an organization. Every business involves countless forms of written and oral communication: advertisements, strategic plans, annual reports, motivational discussions, even hallway chats. The questions for you:

* Can you get your point across, even in a crowd?

* Are you a good listener?

* Can you imagine yourself being excited about delivering a message to an important audience?

If you answered "yes," read on.

Passion about People:

Nearly everyone describes themselves as an excellent "people person." In business, this has specific meaning. The best people skills are those which help teams function at the highest level. Managers and subordinates alike must connect positively with each other. The questions for you:

* Do you find that you are inspiring to others?

* Do you prefer to spend time as part of a group?

* Can you imagine yourself being excited about joining a team that faces difficult challenges?

If you answered "yes," read on.

If you still are reading this, you answered "yes" above. This indicates that you can be passionate about numbers, words and people. While this suggests a potential for a good fit in a business career, more assessment is required. The key next step should be a discussion with a career or guidance specialist. If you subsequently choose to pursue a business degree, you'll be delighted to find that it provides two important benefits:

1. Career and placement assistance, to help you narrow your business focus; and

2. Basic business skills, to compliment your terrific passion for numbers, words, and people.

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