How the MBA can help you land your dream job

Prospective Master of Business Administration (MBA) students tend to approach the degree with one of many motivations in mind. Some undertake the journey as a personal challenge, whereas others are seeking more career-oriented outcomes such as a promotion or a change in role. If it’s a new job you are seeking, the MBA can assist in many ways during the recruitment process – from newfound knowledge, to increased confidence and value. Statistics also show that MBAs are in demand in the workforce, further strengthening the reputation of the already-prestigious qualification. To learn more about how the MBA can help you take the next steps in your career, consider the below.

Your credibility and perceived value increases

Every MBA can testify that attaining the degree takes great dedication, persistence and hard work. The knowledge gained throughout the programme is also considered to be extremely valuable, giving the graduate a competitive edge on other non-MBA job seekers. High profile companies are known to seek out MBAs in their recruitment efforts, as they value not only the specific knowledge, but also the personal qualities synonymous with an MBA.

AIB MBA Graduate Jonathan Nolan found that post-MBA, organisations quickly began recognising his efforts, with several job offers coming his way. “A company was so impressed with the work I’d conducted during my MBA that they offered me a position as a partner within the business,” he said. For many, the MBA is just what they need to open the right doors, differentiate themselves, and allow recruiters to see their real value.

You gain the confidence you need to take the next step

When it comes to recruitment, a candidate’s confidence can make or break the success of a job interview. In fact, a lack of confidence can even hold people back from seeking new opportunities altogether. Regardless of the career stage you’re at when approaching the MBA and your professional confidence at that time, the MBA experience provides validation and assurance in your skills and what you have to offer.

In fact, the 2017 AIB Alumni Insights Survey highlighted that 64.7% of MBA graduates gained increased self-confidence thanks to their degree. For many candidates, this is what gets them over the line during a recruitment process, as they feel equipped to succeed in the role and this is reflected through their confident persona.

Your holistic business understanding makes you an asset

One of the reasons why the MBA is so successful is due to its core subject components, which cover each of the foundations of a modern day organisation. This provides each graduate of the programme with a well-rounded understanding of the business environment – important knowledge that candidates without MBAs are unlikely to have. But the MBA doesn’t just cover foundational subjects such as Finance and Leadership, it also encourages students to apply critical thinking and problem solving skills. During the recruitment process, it’s this holistic knowledge and additional skills that help a candidate stand out, so ensure you display how you would apply it all to the new role.

AIB MBA Graduate Greg Goopy said his MBA allowed his outlook on business to become far more sophisticated. “I started to understand the greater context of the business I worked for and the markets we operated in, progressing my career significantly,” he said. Thanks to this knowledge, Mr Goopy was able to progress from a state manager to a national manager – a career move that he was seeking for some time prior to his MBA.

Employers are seeking MBAs

While skeptics exist in every industry, it’s hard to ignore or disagree with statistics. According to the Graduate Management Admission Council, the MBA qualification remains relevant and sought-after in today’s economy. Nearly all (97%) of organisations surveyed believe that hiring a business school graduate will create value for their companies. A promising 79% of employers plan to hire MBA graduates this year, which is 11% higher than figures for last year. Our 2017 Alumni Insights Survey also revealed that 47% of AIB graduates received a salary increase within 12 months of completing their MBA – indicating a promotion, recognition of efforts, or a new role.

If you’re interested in the real career outcomes of AIB alumni, view the 2017 AIB Alumni Insights Report.