Archive for January 2010
Although getting an MBA can be a great step in your career, it’s not for everyone. Some people simply aren’t willing to put in the time and effort to get a higher degree while others simply don’t need the degree to do what they want to do. Let’s talk about a few considerations to help you determine whether getting an MBA is right for you.
Do You Want to Get an MBA?
Now, this may seem silly, but a lot of people try to get an MBA for someone else. Maybe your work is pushing you to get an MBA. Maybe your spouse is pushing you to get a higher degree. Unless you really want to get your MBA, then there’s no reason to start school now. If you aren’t motivated and don’t care about getting the degree, you are not likely to do well in school. Get an MBA for you, not for anybody else.
Will It Help You?
In some instances, an MBA may not help you. Perhaps you have years of experience that far outweigh any claims made by a degree. Maybe you don’t really want a management position. If you don’t, you may not need an MBA. You may be able to get the job you want based on your prior education and experience. There’s no need to pay for a degree if it won’t help you at all.
Can You Get It For Free?
Is your company willing to pay for you to get your degree? Even if you don’t really need the degree for your position, if your company will pay for your education, you may want to consider getting your degree. Although you might not want it now, you may find that having your MBA will come in handy later. Usually you will have to promise to stay with a company for a certain amount of time in order to get your education paid for, but if you were already planning to stay around, then nothing but good can come of getting a free degree – you might even get a raise.
Are You Considering Changing Careers?
If you are considering changing careers, it may be a good time to get your MBA. Having an MBA can help you switch careers or fields much more easily, and you may even end up getting a promotion or a raise at your new job just because you have a higher degree.
If You Answered Yes
If you answered “Yes” to any of these questions, then an MBA is probably for you. If nothing else, you should at least seriously consider getting your MBA. Weigh the pros and cons, get your family’s support, and then apply to a school and begin one of the most fun and challenging times of your life.
