Whether you are a career switcher or looking to accelerate progression in your current industry, an MBA is a powerful tool to accomplish those objectives. To determine whether business school is right for you—and if so, when—use career pathing as your guide. Think of career pathing as a roadmap to your medium or long-term professional goals. Taking a broader view of your overall career path provides clarity about the development opportunities that will help you get there.
Begin by evaluating your past and current work experience. What skills have you gained? What areas need shoring up? Which roles or duties have you liked best? Or hated? Upon this reflection, you should better understand where you need to grow and what position or industry sparks your passion. Will an MBA provide the knowledge you need to fill in the gaps in your toolkit? If so, what does your post-MBA career goal look like?
If you aren’t sure what you want to do, think hard about what kind of career would make you happy. Also, consider whether your dream career is realistic based on your skills and achievements (combined with what you’ll learn at business school). The MBA is a flexible degree that allows you to explore many different industries. Even so, business schools want to know that you have a specific and attainable position or industry in mind. Think about WHY you want to do what you want to do and how you’ll get there. That way, you can maximize your time and the vast resources available in business school.
Career Pathing Pit Stops in B-School
MBA aspirants know that top programs have many resources to ensure they will stay at the forefront of industry developments. During business school, you will have opportunities galore for career exploration and professional and personal growth. From network building with current classmates and alums to club and affinity group leadership and social experiences to case competitions and conferences, you’ll have plenty of chances to extend your career pathing ventures.
The MBA degree is a bridge between your current career and your future. Once you have decided you need an MBA, the next steps are to consider your school options and develop your overall application strategy. If you need guidance for any of these tasks, don’t hesitate to contact us!
The post What is Career Pathing and How Can It Guide Your MBA Plans? appeared first on Stacy Blackman Consulting - MBA Admissions Consulting.
