Career Development
MENUMENU
  • Students and alumni
    • Career readiness and preparation
      • Application materials and free review
      • Grad school and test prep
      • Interviewing
      • Major and career exploration
    • Work on campus
      • On campus required trainings
      • Performance management
      • Student employee forms & resources
      • Student employment at NAU
      • Student employment handbook
    • Student resources
      • Career Closet
      • Financial wellness
      • Handshake
      • Meet with a Career Specialist
      • Online self-paced learning
      • Request a workshop or presentation
    • Find a job
      • Career, job and internship fairs
      • Federal work-study program
      • Job search strategies
    • After NAU
      • NAU LinkedIn alumni finder
      • Stay connected with NAU
      • Update contact information
      • Work at NAU
    • Internships
      • Departmental internship contacts
      • Find an internship
      • Partnered internships
  • Employer resources
    • Internships
    • Off-campus employers
    • On-campus employers
  • Faculty/staff resources
    • Integrating career into curriculum
    • Internship resources for faculty and staff
  • Career events
    • Career Development Office - all majors career events
      • Career Coffee Corner
      • Career & Graduate School Fairs
      • Part-Time Opportunities Fair
    • Industry-specific career events
  • Connect with us
    • Make an appointment
    • Request a workshop
    • Staff directory
    • Submit your resume for review
  • IN
  • Career Development
  • AI-Powered Career Development: Your ultimate guide to success

Contact Career Development

Email:
Career​@nau.edu
Call:
928-523-1087

AI-Powered Career Development: Your ultimate guide to success

Leverage generative AI for career readiness, interview prep, networking, and professional growth using the following prompts:

Persona to give the career development prompt expertise Accordion Closed

You are a world-class, 5-star career development expert who has 30 years of experience working at a major public university aiding students and alumni to get 100% Career Ready in all phases of their career exploration, education, training, and development. You are a master teacher and renowned subject matter expert in all things career development including interviews, resumes, covers, resumes, CVs, career guidance, building career-enhancing networks, as well as career competencies and career skills.

Always ask and follow up for more insights with “what else,” “give me more insights,” or “tell me more about…”

Example:

Screenshot of an example outcome of using the provided prompt.

See Appendix A for full output.

Complete career guide Accordion Closed

Please generate a detailed guide on career opportunities in the [[User Insert Name of Industry Here]] Industry. Please include necessary qualifications, typical career progression paths, and emerging trends. Please include practical advice for earning entry-level positions and strategies for long-term career development. The response is critical to me as I am exploring the [[User Insert Name of Industry Here]] Industry as a career once I graduate from university. Please respond in a numbered bulleted format so I can ask additional follow up questions by referencing the item number.

Follow up prompt: Tell me more about [[#number]].

Common interview questions and example answers Accordion Closed

Please provide a list of common interview questions and effective example responses for a position as a [[User Insert Name of Job Role Here]] within the [[User Insert Name of Industry Here]] Industry. Please include tips on body language, dressing appropriately, and strategies to handle stress and unexpected questions during the interview. Respond in a clear, easy-to-read, bulleted format. The response is critical as I am preparing for an interview and need help getting ready.

Follow up prompt: Please give me 5 more challenging interview questions to practice.

Behavioral based interview questions and example answers Accordion Closed

Please provide a list of behavioral based interview questions and effective example responses for a position as a [[User Insert Name of Job Role Here]] within the [[User Insert Name of Industry Here]] Industry. Include tips on body language, dressing appropriately, and strategies to handle stress and unexpected questions during the interview. Respond in a clear, easy-to-read, bulleted format. The response is critical as I am preparing for an interview and need help getting ready.

Follow up prompt: Please give me 5 more challenging behavioral based interview questions to practice.

Career competencies and career skills Accordion Closed

Please identify and describe essential skills needed for success in the [[User Insert Name of Industry or Sector Here]] as a [[User Insert Name of Job Here]]. Offer a range of powerful and impactful majors or classes, free online courses, workshops, training programs, and other resources where these skills can be acquired or enhanced, focusing on transferable career competencies and career skills pertinent to advancing within this field. The response is critical to me as I am exploring the [[User Insert Name of Industry Here]] Industry as a career once I graduate from university. Please respond in a numbered bulleted format so I can ask additional follow up questions by referencing the item number.

Follow up prompt: Tell me more about [[#number]].

Networking strategies Accordion Closed

Please outline effective networking strategies for someone looking to advance in the [[User Insert Name of Industry Here]]. This output will be for a [[student year or graduated in 20XX]]. Include tips on utilizing online platforms such as LinkedIn, attending industry conferences, and joining professional organizations, as well as advice on building and maintaining professional relationships. Please give me some unique or out-of-the-box ideas on networking and building relationships to help my career development and career readiness. Please respond in a numbered bulleted format so I can ask additional follow up questions by referencing the item number.

Follow up prompt: Please give me 5 more unique ideas for me to build relationships to expand my career network.

Follow up prompt: Tell me more about [[#number]].

Career paths pros and cons Accordion Closed

Please provide a detailed comparison of the pros and cons of various career paths within [[User Insert Name of Industry or Sector Here]]. This output will be for a [[student year or graduated in 20XX]]. Highlight educational requirements, potential salary ranges, and advancement opportunities in a clear and concise format. Also, please give me a couple of additional career paths that are unique and new opportunities that are quickly growing in the dynamic and changing work force environment. Please output in a table format.

Follow up prompt: Give me 5 more career paths that service the [[User Insert Name of Sector Here]], but I might not have thought of.

Developing transferable career skills Accordion Closed

Please create a list of the top 10 essential Transferable Career Skills (aka: “soft skills”) for succeeding in [User Insert Name of Career, Industry, or Job Here]. Why are these Transferable Career Skills important? Please provide practical and approachable tips on how these skills can be developed through everyday activities, formal education, informal education, structured training programs, joining organizations, as well as service or volunteerism. For context, I am a [[student year or graduated in 20XX]]. Please respond in a numbered bulleted format so I can ask additional follow up questions by referencing the item number.

Follow up prompt: Tell me more about [[#number]] and how do I develop that skill as a [[student year or graduated in 20XX]]?

Responding to emerging opportunities in the next 10 years Accordion Closed

Please identify emerging job roles, unique industries, and required transferable career skills in [[User Insert Name of Industry or Sector Here]] over the next decade. This generative AI should analyze current trends, technological advancements, current growth career opportunities, current opportunities that are being made obsolete, and national and global economic forecasts to provide a comprehensive outlook. The result should be a detailed report that offers actionable insights for a [[student year or graduated in 20XX]] to structure their formal and informal education, activities, and training programs to ensure alignment with future job market demands. This proactive approach aims to prepare the user for inevitable industry changes, keeping them ahead in their career development and career readiness.

Follow up prompt: Tell me more about [[name of item]] and what are 1,6, and 12 month actions and planning I can take to start to respond to changing workforce needs and workforce demands.

Professionalism and advancement Accordion Closed

Please generate a comprehensive guide for a career in [User Insert Name of Industry or Job Role Here], detailing key professionalism skills, necessary qualifications, and potential growth paths to help users understand how to effectively advance in this field. What do I need to understand about professionalism to get started and be successful in this [[Industry or Job Role]]? I am a [[student year or graduated in 20XX]] so I need to build a [[insert X number of months until you graduate or start applying for jobs]] month plan to get ready professionally and qualification wise.

Follow up prompt: What are the first steps I should take in my development with the context that I am a [[major]] and have worked in [[job roles]] and have experience with [[career skills you currently have or are working on]].

Guide to developing a side-hustle Accordion Closed

You are also a skilled and master entrepreneurial coach and mentor who has 30 years of experience helping clients develop new businesses and side-hustles that align with their current job and career roles.

Please develop a step-by-step guide for starting a side hustle in the [[User Insert Name of Industry or Job Role]], suitable for professionals in [[User Insert Name of Current Area of Study, Job Role or Industry]]. The guide should cover identifying niche markets, legal considerations and regulations, and adopting digital tools for service delivery. Include marketing strategies specifically tailored to [[User Insert Name of Industry or Job Role]] and tips for scaling the business online. This guide aims to help individuals leverage their expertise to build a secondary income stream that could potentially become their main career focus.

Follow up prompt: Recommend 10 side hustles that would fit the parameters set in the “Step-by-Step Guide to Launching a Side Hustle in [[User Insert Name of Industry or Job to be explored]] and [[User Insert Name of Current Area of Studt, Job Role, or Industry]]. Why are these side hustles a good fit and what are the pros and cons of each.

Guide to developing a side-hustle – Arts Accordion Closed

Please develop a business blueprint for artisans looking to turn their craft into a sustainable side hustle in [User Insert Name of Sector Here]. The blueprint should guide them through establishing an online presence, leveraging social media for marketing, legal considerations and regulations, and managing online sales platforms. Include resources on pricing strategies and customer engagement to help maintain profitability and growth. This program aims to empower artisans by providing them with the tools and knowledge necessary to transform their passion into a viable business venture.

Follow up prompt: Tell me more about [[name of item]] and give me a 6-month plan of action I can use to begin building my side hustle.

Example output of using the above “career guide” prompt including the follow up prompt

Formula 1 career guide: Your path to success in motorsport

1. Overview of the formula 1 industry Accordion Closed

1.1. The F1 ecosystem consists of:
  • 10 teams (constructors)
  • 20 race drivers
  • Approximately 4,000 direct team employees
  • 15,000+ additional jobs in supporting industries
  • Multiple race locations worldwide
  • Extensive supply chain and technology partners
1.2. Key industry trends:
  • Increasing focus on sustainability and electric technology
  • Growing emphasis on data analytics and AI
  • Expansion into new markets (particularly US and Asia)
  • Rising importance of social media and digital engagement
  • Development of cost cap regulations creating new opportunities

2. Major career paths Accordion Closed

2.1. Technical/Engineering roles:
  • Race Engineer
  • Aerodynamicist
  • Power Unit Engineer
  • Vehicle Dynamics Engineer
  • Performance Engineer
  • Design Engineer
  • Materials Engineer
  • Electronics Engineer
2.2. Operations/Management roles:
  • Team Principal
  • Technical Director
  • Operations Manager
  • Project Manager
  • Supply Chain Manager
  • Race Strategy Manager
  • Sporting Director
2.3. Support/Specialized roles:
  • Data Analyst
  • Simulation Engineer
  • Composite Technician
  • Machine Shop Specialist
  • Quality Control Inspector
  • Wind Tunnel Technician
  • Mechanic/Technician
2.4. Commercial/Business roles:
  • Marketing Manager
  • Sponsorship Manager
  • PR/Communications Specialist
  • Legal Counsel
  • Finance Manager
  • HR Professional
  • Digital Content Producer

3. Essential qualifications Accordion Closed

3.1. Educational requirements:
  • Engineering roles: Bachelor’s/Master’s in:
    • Mechanical Engineering
    • Aerospace Engineering
    • Electrical Engineering
    • Computer Science
    • Mathematics/Physics
  • Business roles: Bachelor’s/Master’s in:
    • Business Administration
    • Marketing
    • Sports Management
    • Communications
    • Finance
3.2. Critical technical skills:
  • CAD/CAM software proficiency
  • Programming languages (Python, MATLAB)
  • Data analysis tools
  • CFD (Computational Fluid Dynamics)
  • FEA (Finite Element Analysis)
  • Machine learning/AI
  • Project management software
3.3. Essential soft skills:
  • Strong problem-solving abilities
  • Excellent communication
  • Team collaboration
  • Ability to work under pressure
  • Attention to detail
  • Adaptability
  • Time management
  • Cultural awareness

4. Entry-level position strategies Accordion Closed

4.1. Educational preparation:
  • Focus on relevant coursework
  • Join Formula Student/FSAE teams
  • Participate in motorsport competitions
  • Pursue relevant internships
  • Obtain industry certifications
4.2. Networking approaches:
  • Attend F1 events and trade shows
  • Join professional associations
  • Connect with alumni in F1
  • Engage with F1 professionals on LinkedIn
  • Participate in motorsport forums
  • Follow team members and technical staff
4.3. Entry points:
  • Graduate schemes (Mercedes, Red Bull, McLaren)
  • Junior engineering roles
  • Data analysis positions
  • Technical support roles
  • Internships during university
  • Support roles in lower racing series

5. Career Development Strategies Accordion Closed

5.1. Short-term (1-3 years):
  • Gain hands-on experience in lower racing series
  • Build technical expertise in specific areas
  • Develop strong industry network
  • Obtain relevant certifications
  • Create portfolio of projects/achievements
5.2. Mid-term (3-7 years):
  • Specialize in high-demand areas
  • Take on leadership responsibilities
  • Cross-train in different departments
  • Build international experience
  • Mentor junior team members
5.3. Long-term (7+ years):
  • Move into senior technical or management roles
  • Develop broader business acumen
  • Build industry reputation
  • Contribute to industry innovations
  • Consider team ownership/leadership roles

6. Practical Tips for Success Accordion Closed

6.1. Experience Building:
  • Start with karting or local motorsport
  • Volunteer at race events
  • Join racing simulation communities
  • Create technical projects
  • Write about F1 technology/trends
6.2. Skill Development:
  • Learn multiple languages
  • Master relevant software
  • Develop presentation skills
  • Study race regulations
  • Understanding racing physics
6.3. Industry Knowledge:
  • Follow technical regulations
  • Study team structures
  • Understand business model
  • Keep up with innovations
  • Learn from past seasons

7. Common Challenges and Solutions Accordion Closed

7.1. High Competition:
  • Develop unique skill combinations
  • Build strong personal brand
  • Create standout portfolio
  • Network effectively
  • Consider geographic flexibility
7.2. Work-Life Balance:
  • Expect extensive travel
  • Prepare for long hours
  • Build support systems
  • Develop stress management
  • Plan career transitions
7.3. Industry Volatility:
  • Maintain transferable skills
  • Build financial security
  • Develop backup plans
  • Stay technically current
  • Build broad network

8. Future Trends and Opportunities Accordion Closed

8.1. Emerging Areas:
  • Sustainable technologies
  • Electric powertrains
  • Advanced materials
  • Virtual/augmented reality
  • Artificial intelligence
  • Fan engagement platforms
8.2. Growth Markets:
  • US expansion
  • Asian markets
  • Digital platforms
  • Sustainability initiatives
  • Educational programs
8.3. Skills for the Future:
  • Sustainability engineering
  • Digital transformation
  • Data science
  • AR/VR development
  • Electric vehicle technology
  • Fan experience design

9. Resources and Further Learning Accordion Closed

9.1. Professional Organizations:
  • FIA Institute
  • Society of Automotive Engineers
  • Institution of Mechanical Engineers
  • Motorsport Industry Association
  • Formula Student organizations
9.2. Key Publications:
  • Race Tech Magazine
  • Racecar Engineering
  • Autosport
  • F1 Technical
  • Professional Engineering
9.3. Online Learning:
  • LinkedIn Learning courses
  • Coursera specializations
  • EdX programs
  • Industry webinars
  • Technical forums

10. Next Steps for Aspiring F1 Professionals Accordion Closed

10.1. Immediate Actions:
  • Assess current qualifications
  • Identify skill gaps
  • Create development plan
  • Build initial network
  • Start relevant projects
10.2. Medium-term Planning:
  • Target specific roles
  • Build experience portfolio
  • Develop specializations
  • Expand professional network
  • Gain relevant certifications
10.3. Long-term Vision:
  • Set career milestones
  • Plan advancement path
  • Build industry reputation
  • Develop leadership skills
  • Create industry impact

Welcome
Location
Room 242 Building 30
University Union Fieldhouse
1050 S. Knoles Drive
Flagstaff, Arizona 86011
Mailing Address
PO Box 6007
Flagstaff, Arizona 86011
Email
career@nau.edu
Phone
928-523-1087
Social Media
Facebook Instagram LinkedIn Pinterest