Does an MBA Matter

In our hyper-competitive age, having an MBA matters.  I’m not saying that it truly matters.  I’m saying it matters to our culture.  Just like March Madness or the cost of oil does to many.  I have always believed that whatever education you choose should be fuel for your destiny.  Sadly, destiny doesn’t matter a lot for people caught in the whirlwind of competition and material success.  It’s more of an afterthought.

So, does an MBA matter.  I think it can if it is a part of the story that is your life.  Getting an MBA because it will increase your money-making power is not the best motivation.  I say that, knowing that many have obtained the degree for those reasons.  So if you’re considering putting in the time to obtain an MBA and don’t really have a vision for the future, then you may be placing your ladder on the wrong building.  Happens all the time.  More than you’d believe.

Here are some tips on how to value an MBA:

  • An MBA is only as valuable as the vision it supports.  For example, if you don’t have a vision about your career, then an MBA won’t help you.
  • An MBA should help you find a career made to last.  See Pinny Cohen’s piece on Choose a Recession-Proof Career.
  • An MBA should not be used to form identity.
  • An MBA is statement and not an entitlement.
  • Know your design!