Losing Your Job because of MBA

Question

So I might just be paranoid, but I feel like my boss in on to me about wanting an MBA. I only told my supervisor who I am friends with (also writing my rec) about my plans because at my small company, they would be sure to "let me go". If they do find out and let me go because of it, would this totally kill my chances?

GoBruin · Answer

Although I can say my managers aren't that supportive of my leaving (which I think is very common when you're in industries that aren't MBA tracked) I don't think being let go is really an issue.

If they were gonna let you go, they might as well wait til you leave yourself for your mba. You're saving them unemployment.

agold · Answer

Agreed. Unless there are (serious) performance issues on top of the fact that you're leaving, I see this as highly unlikely. You will definitely have to try a little bit harder to stay motivated at work, but you must do so. Even if you and they both realize that you are one foot out the door already mentally, surprise them once in a while by going above and beyond.

cpgmba · Answer

I'm actually in a similar situation. At a smaller company and if anyone outside of my boss found out, I would also be "let go". I was going to give them plenty of time to find a replacement with a month or two notice, but my boss told me to keep it to two weeks because they have a history of making people leave right away once they give a notice.

riverripper · Answer

Can also cost you a bonus if you typically get one. I was very secure in my job so it wasnt an issue but for everyone in a situation like mine, I know someone that didnt tell their employer until July.

BSchoolorBust · Answer

You're exactly right River - I'm in that very position. My year end bonus is determined in December, with payment four weeks later in January. So, it is very difficult for me to tell my employer about MBA plans and hence I am using my previous employer as a rec.

MeddlingKid · Answer

I'm in a similar situation. While I am secure in my position, and have received positive performance feedback, I am still keeping my MBA intentions quiet from the partners. It sounds as though the partnership has the intention of promoting me to management this next year, so I have somewhat of a dilemma. On one hand, if I find out I have been accepted to one of my target MBA programs in Dec./Jan., I could give my employer advanced notice that I will be leaving in August, hence allowing them to promote somebody who may stick around longer. On the other hand, if I wait until after I get promoted, I would essentially have to give notice within weeks of being promoted to manager. But, management would probably look better when recruiting during school...I'm not sure what I will do if put in that situation.

Losing Your Job because of MBA

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