Many MBA candidates begin their program with a specific career objective in mind (typically advancement in their current role), and plan to use their graduate degree in business to achieve that goal. On the other hand, there are plenty of students with more open-ended aspirations, who are interested in exploring the positions they might pursue after earning an MBA. Those graduating with a specialization in finance, for example, often complete their MBA with job offers in hand, and can select the opportunity that best fits their evolving preferences and goals.
There are a few industries where these types of opportunities are more likely to surface. The most lucrative careers with six-figure starting salaries are typically found in finance, consumer products and consulting – which is the direction many business students take. However, if more autonomy at work is your goal, the technology and start-up sector will provide roles with built-in flexibility, the freedom to make decisions, and opportunities to lead.
These employers actively search for promising MBA graduates to add to their teams early on in the recruitment cycle. Some students are offered positions before they even finish their first year of graduate studies. For this reason, many programs encourage students to keep an open mind, and remain receptive to the diverse opportunities that may come their way during the degree.
The best strategy for prospective MBA applicants is to study in a prime location, like Toronto’s downtown business sector , where they will enjoy close proximity to leading companies while completing their degree. The Lazaridis School of Business and Economics, for example, offers a range of innovative part-time MBA programs, geared toward busy professionals who work in downtown Toronto. This is the ideal location for MBA candidates to pursue an MBA, keep working full-time, and network with potential employers. Lazaridis’ part-time MBA programs are fertile ground for entrepreneurs looking to launch start-ups, and professionals who want to elevate their skills to qualify for advanced leadership positions.
Many MBA candidates are not aware of the diverse career opportunities awaiting them post-graduation—or how quickly they can secure promising job offers simply by studying at a reputable school with powerful industry partners. Whether students have their sights set on the finance sector, technology companies, or start-up opportunities, an MBA from a respected business school is a strong first step to many well-compensated, personally rewarding careers.
Joseph Cianciotto on Some Motivating Factors To Invest in Marketing