List Only

Will getting an MBA really help a mid-career professional stand out in a job search?

The job market is tough, and I'm thinking of starting an MBA program in August to get a leg up on the competition. But I want to make sure this investment will pay off.

Public Comments

1. Of course getting any further degree/ education will put you ahead of those who don't have it but an investment will truely pay off if you enjoy what you're doing. If it provides further knowledge in your area of work, it will help you stand out. Good luck and happy learning!
2. If the MBA is from a recognizable University then yes, it stands out and carries value. But with the influx of people looking for MBA as a solution to career growth, it's really hard to differentiate one MBA from the other. This is where your skills & experience as a mid-career professional scores over anything an MBA will equip you with. That's been my personal experience anyway involved with recruitment.
3. It all depends on the industry. I thought about doing the same thing..but found out that an MBA isn't really necessary in my field. At the levels where I want to go to..it's preferred, but not required. I talked to current and former bosses..as well as my old recruiters. Now if I leave my industry, then I will once again consider it. But, for now..hard work and experience is the way for me to move up and get a leg up on the competition. Do some research by talking to those in the industry..particularly people who are doing the job you are going for..as well as hiring managers and then make the best decision. Because getting an MBA is a HUGE investment and you want a ROI!
4. It's too difficult to advise you without actually (i) reviewing your resume that shows your college degree & previous work experience and (ii) timing when you see an interested opening you believe you qualify for, just gettiing your foot in the door for interview and actual selection results in subjective evaluation of most qualified candidate. In general, (i) once you do earn and graduate with an MBA degree should push your name further into consideration of potential candidates for interview but (ii) there are many MBA disciplines and the best one in my opinion is FINANCE and if you to choose an easy one say like MARKETING, I think you would be wasting your money or it would be a poor investment & choice. Bottomline, it's your analytical skills and how well you are able to communicate in writing as well as on your feet bec it is always necessary not to forget that your supervisor & management are gauging your performance on your contributions to profit and more business & revenue. And how much of a learning curve the give you will actullay depend on your starting salary... Hope the Above Info Helps and Best of Luck!