Last Updated on October 13, 2022 by Umer Malik
Businesses and companies are back to their vigorous hunt for MBA graduates post-Covid. The skillset that MBA students can offer is unparalleled. The reason behind this hunt is simple; an MBA degree provides the perfect blend of theoretical knowledge and real-world experience that businesses are in search of.
According to research, an MBA is among the most sought-after qualifications in the US today. The number of graduates who successfully bagged jobs within 90 days of completing their degree exceeded 85%.
The skills that MBA students can hone during their tenure in business school are vast. However, to keep things brief, here are some of the most in-demand skills that businesses are looking for in MBA graduates:
Communication skills
Clients are the lifeblood of any business. The ability to charm and persuade them is essential for any MBA graduate. Whether it is through emails, presentations, or negotiations, an MBA graduate needs to be articulate and persuasive.
A study by The Economist figured that the number of jobs that require strong communication skills has increased by 43% in the past five years.
During an MBA program, you will be taught how to communicate with different people. You will also be allowed to hone your public speaking skills. These skills will come in handy when representing your business in front of clients.
Leadership skills
Businesses are always looking for leaders who can steer them in the right direction. Leadership is one of the most vital MBA abilities. Many schools provide leadership courses that teach you to lead, supervise, and motivate a team to achieve a particular goal. If you have ever wondered what you can do with an MBA, this is it.
You can polish your leadership skills by taking part in team projects, attending leadership workshops, and networking with senior executives. There is always a thing or two to be learned from those who have been in the business world for a while.
Since the business dynamics have changed post-Covid, the quality of remote team-building across different time zones has become a sought-after skill. MBA graduates who have experience leading and managing virtual teams will have the edge over the competition.
Strategic thinking
There’s competition out there. It’s the dog-eat-dog world we live in. To stay ahead of the curve and come out on top, businesses need MBA graduates who can think strategically.
An MBA program will teach you how to analyze data, make informed decisions, and develop creative solutions to problems. You will also get hands-on knowledge on designing and effectuating long-term business plans. These skills are essential in the ever-changing landscape of business.
For example, say you are the CEO of a small business. To compete with big companies, you need to think strategically and develop innovative ways to attract customers. An MBA graduate with strategic thinking skills can help you do just that.
It is not enough to be a good employee in today’s business world. You need to be a problem solver and have the ability to think outside the box.
Technology skills
From paperless offices to online marketing, businesses use technology more than ever. It’s no secret that having tech skills can make you stand out and shine in a competitive job market.
Businesses are actively hiring graduates and professionals with backgrounds in technology. A study by Payscale discovered that people with an MBA and technology skills earn 20% more than those without.
During your time in an MBA program, you will learn about the latest technology trends and how to use them in a business setting. You will also have the opportunity to learn how to code, build websites, and design apps.
Problem-solving skills
Managers often have to deal with the trickiest situations when on the field. From high employee turnover to unexpected market changes, there’s always something that can throw a wrench in the works.
That’s why businesses are looking for MBA graduates with strong problem-solving skills. Suppose you are the manager of a team working on a project. If something goes wrong and you don’t have the skills to solve the problem, the project will likely fail.
During your time in an MBA program, you will learn how to identify and solve problems promptly. You will also be introduced to different problem-solving techniques, such as root cause analysis and brainstorming. With problem-solving skills like these, you will be able to handle any situation that comes your way!
Networking skills
Businesses today make or break based on their relationships. From suppliers to customers to investors, businesses need to have a robust network to succeed. But how do you think an MBA assists you in networking?
Quite a few ways! For starters, MBA programs are great for meeting new people. You will meet classmates from all walks of life and from all over the world. You will also have the opportunity to network with professors, alumni, and business leaders.
But networking is not just about meeting new people. It’s also about building relationships. An MBA graduate with strong networking skills will be able to develop long-lasting relationships with key players in the business world. These relationships can help you get ahead in your career and open up new opportunities.
Conclusion
Melinda Gates, standing proudly as the sixth most powerful woman in the world with a net worth of over $6.7 billion, once said: “An MBA is not a one-way ticket to riches. It’s a passport to a lifetime of learning.”
This is so true! As an MBA graduate, you will have the opportunity to learn new skills and knowledge that you can use in your career. You will also be able to network with business leaders and learn from their experiences. After all, an MBA is a powerful tool to help you achieve your career goals.
So, if you’re thinking about pursuing an MBA, don’t hesitate! The skills you will learn will be invaluable in your future career.
