Hi there! I just finished my MBA and I’m on a temporary graduate visa that gives me 3 years to work (got it in January). I’m not rushing into permanent residency right now, but I want to be smart about my career choices. I figure it makes sense to target jobs that are already on the migration skills list so I have options later.
The thing is, my business degree is pretty general and most of the occupations on the list don’t match perfectly. I did some digging and found roles like Strategic Development Manager and Business Advisor that might work. These positions look really competitive though.
I do have about 2.5 years of experience as a Strategic Development Manager from before I started my MBA, so that might help.
What do you think would be my smartest move for finding full-time work here? Should I talk to an immigration advisor now to figure out the best approach?
Anyone been through something similar? I’d really appreciate hearing about your experience or any tips you have. Thanks so much!
Been through this exact situation! Had my MBA and temp visa but was overthinking the skills list thing. Here’s what worked - I applied broadly but highlighted how my experience connected to skills list roles in every application. I’d mention “strategic planning and business development” even for general management positions. Most employers don’t even know about the skills list, so you’re not competing against people specifically targeting those roles. Smaller companies are often more flexible about job titles and responsibilities. I got hired as a “Business Development Manager” - wasn’t exactly my target but checked all the right boxes for visa stuff later. Applied within 3 months of graduating and it worked out perfectly.
Great strategy! With 2.5 years as a Strategic Development Manager, you’re already well-positioned for Australia. But don’t limit yourself to just the migration skills list at first. Plenty of MBA grads break in through related roles - Management Consultant, Business Analyst, Project Manager - then pivot to skills list jobs later. Hit up recruitment agencies that focus on MBA placements. They know how to match your qualifications with what employers actually want. Since you’re on a temp visa, you’ve got time to be picky instead of desperate. For immigration advice - yeah, get an early consultation to understand skill assessments and pathways, but don’t let it box in your job hunt. Go after roles where you can show real business impact. That’ll strengthen any future visa application no matter what occupation code you end up with. The goal is building a solid career story that highlights your strategic thinking skills.