Jumpstart a New Career with an MBA

You're at a career crossroads. You've advanced within your company, but want new challenges. An MBA can provide new opportunities in your present career, or open doors to a new career.

By Karen Lawson
karen.lawson@mba-business-schools.com
MBA-Business-Schools Columnist

You’re not actively looking for a new job, but you’ve hit a dead end with your current situation. Maybe you’ve put in years while steadily advancing, but have hit a plateau. Or you might be facing burnout, and ready to try something new altogether. It’s not easy to start a brand new business career, but an MBA degree can help. MBA programs are available for full and part time students, with some or all instruction available online.

No matter what your financial and personal circumstances, it’s important to understand that an MBA program will require plenty of time for study, research, and possibly a business internship. If you’re working full time, your employer may work with you to accommodate your MBA program if an advanced business degree will be useful. It’s a good idea to talk with your supervisor and human resources department to determine what type of education benefits your company offers.

The amount of time a business degree will require is a significant factor to consider. Especially if you already work full time, make sure your family understands and supports your commitment to the MBA degree.

In selecting an MBA program, it helps to know why you’re seeking an MBA degree and how you expect it to enhance your career. Ask yourself these questions:

• Do you have specific goals in mind? For example, are you going to specialize in accounting and finance, or are you seeking the MBA to meet executive recruiting requirements?
• If you want to change careers, what are the educational and professional requirements? Will an MBA typically enhance opportunities in your new field?

Goals such as gaining status and wealth can result in disappointment. Your MBA program should enhance existing skills and provide new knowledge and insight that will help you meet your goals in your business career. “Charting your course” before choosing an MBA program can help ensure your success.

Karen Lawson is a freelance writer whose interests include topics in education and the arts. She holds an MA degree in English from the University of Nevada, Reno.

Posted on February 08, 2007 at 01:47 PM

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