Wise management: Know the nuances

Jatin Bhandari

A majority of millennial(s) are frustrated with their current jobs/bosses, some of them are simply looking for a change. In such a situation, they tend to go for an MBA programme. But there is a need to understand what an MBA degree can do for you and your career. But the million dollar question is: "How to construct an MBA into the scheme of events of your life?" "How to really create a space for MBA in your lives?"

Look at the following equation

Past + MBA = Short Term (5 Years) + Long Term (6-15 years)

People opt for MBA programmes that complement their skills.  Amid professional experiences, people chance upon moments that inspire them to build an expertise. That mastery will empower them to attain their goal.

For example: Someone working for supply chain in Maruti realises after three years that supply chains are more complex than the simple procurement systems in these companies. He might  consider starting a career with Walmart, Dell, Nokia, Amazon (World's most optimised supply chains). In order to reach that, the candidate should explore an MBA programme. That MBA will most likely make him efficient enough for other functions that are a part of measuring the impact of those supply chains. He might as well intend to explore various other aspects such as Finance, Marketing, and general management and might consider a training programme in leadership and organisational behaviour.

Some of the problems that students face while exploring career options are: 

Having vague and unattainable goals: A candidate wants to gain a managerial perspective or a business perspective. He wants to be a part of the strategy in Fortune 500 companies. Well, strategy is not a function but an adjective. Strategy can be in supply chain, financial restructuring, branding or any other function. Some companies do have strategy positions. Also, he has six years of work experience in an IT firm and he holds a desire to work with a luxury and lifestyle brand such as LV and be a part of the branding team, the story is not going to stick. 

Confusion with available choices: If someone is in a dilemma to choose between two different yet equally tempting options such as, exploring the supply chain consulting firms and working in an advisory role VS considering some of the positions in supply chain in companies such as Walmart, Amazon, Dell and world's other sophisticated supply chain companies: i.e. Advisory vs. the Industry roles it will be fine. However, on the other hand, stating that Finance is the first preference, and the candidate is also keen on exploring consulting - can jeopardise his chances. 

Now, what should one do while exploring careers? One should begin by talking to people in the prospective industries and functions and find out more about their lives, their work profiles and explore what it is to be like them. If international MBA programmes seem to be a better option, then consider connecting with people who did internships in the target companies, and learn more about their experiences. 

Also, clarify whether the target international recruiters sponsor visa for abroad studies or not. Some of the Fortune 500 companies in energy, and automotives are immigrant friendly. Engineers impulsively run towards careers in consulting and investment banking while chasing the MBA dream. They believe that they have certain analytical proclivities that will help them create a smooth transition through their careers. But that's partially wrong. If one is a number wizard, but does not have a great relationship-building capability, then opting for investment banker's role wouldn't be a great deal. 

If someone is looking forward to a career in marketing, remember there is a big difference between working for Google as a product manager and working for P&G as a marketing manager. If the candidate's pre-MBA experience was not very well connected with FMCG, or retail, then P&G would want him to have stronger reasons to make that switch now. However, if the candidate is interested in technology products, he can expect opportunities to learn with Google. 

Be specific in what you want from your future, find out what is needed to get there,  and start moving forward in the direction that inspires you the most!

The writer is founder & CEO of PythaGURUS Education Pvt. Ltd.