Sunday, February 12, 2012
Wednesday, February 8, 2012
What I Learned Wednesday for February 8th 2012
Preface : Here's a new segment! Every Wednesday, keep a look out for wisdom and hints from current grad students, graduates and business leaders. It's What I Learned Wednesday.
This week's What I Learned is brought to you by Emily, a current MBA grad student who works full-time, plays rec soccer, owns a home and is planning a wedding. Her concentration is real estate, which she chose to pursue because it is a true passion of hers.
Below she shares her thoughts on how to manage the many demands of health, career, life & of course, B-School!
Prepare for class, show up and actually listen.
The conversations & teachings are much more interesting when you're prepared and you're hearing them for a second time. Added Bonus: you won't need to spend so much time cramming later.
On that note... Cramming and all-nighters aren't all they are cracked up to be. Steady studying & sleep are key to succeeding in grad school.
Take the time to develop relationships with your classmates and teachers. Networking can change your life!
Sometimes it's best to bite your tongue.
Every group to which you are assigned will be dynamic, and while frustrations and inequities inevitably arise, sometimes you are better offer keeping quiet and carrying on. You never know when you might need a group members' help in the real world.
Your teachers want you to succeed!
Ask for help, continue a classroom conversation outside of class, and foster a relationship with your professors. While the challenging nature of grad school may lead you to believe otherwise, your professors truly do want you to grow.
The busier you are, the better you will do in graduate school.
I will admit that I have been forced to limit the late night partying and dinner dates, but juggling a full-time job, school, exercise, and an abbreviated social life isn't as hard as it sounds... And the busier I am, the better my grades are.
Exercise!
It clears your mind and refreshes you. My first semester of grad school I would miss workouts because of schoolwork. By my second semester I had found that I had time for both - working out let me escape my stresses, and when I returned the books, I was rejuvenated and much more effective.
... ... ...
Wow! Emily's own very valuable lessons seem easy enough to put into practice. You can follow her simple, sound advice to manage the high expectations you have for yourself while you find your own work/life balance during any high-pressure endeavor, like grad school!
If you'd like to hear more from Emily, or let her know how her life lessons have benefited you, be sure to leave us a note!
This week's What I Learned is brought to you by Emily, a current MBA grad student who works full-time, plays rec soccer, owns a home and is planning a wedding. Her concentration is real estate, which she chose to pursue because it is a true passion of hers.
Below she shares her thoughts on how to manage the many demands of health, career, life & of course, B-School!
Prepare for class, show up and actually listen.
The conversations & teachings are much more interesting when you're prepared and you're hearing them for a second time. Added Bonus: you won't need to spend so much time cramming later.
On that note... Cramming and all-nighters aren't all they are cracked up to be. Steady studying & sleep are key to succeeding in grad school.
Take the time to develop relationships with your classmates and teachers. Networking can change your life!
Sometimes it's best to bite your tongue.
Every group to which you are assigned will be dynamic, and while frustrations and inequities inevitably arise, sometimes you are better offer keeping quiet and carrying on. You never know when you might need a group members' help in the real world.
Your teachers want you to succeed!
Ask for help, continue a classroom conversation outside of class, and foster a relationship with your professors. While the challenging nature of grad school may lead you to believe otherwise, your professors truly do want you to grow.
The busier you are, the better you will do in graduate school.
I will admit that I have been forced to limit the late night partying and dinner dates, but juggling a full-time job, school, exercise, and an abbreviated social life isn't as hard as it sounds... And the busier I am, the better my grades are.
Exercise!
It clears your mind and refreshes you. My first semester of grad school I would miss workouts because of schoolwork. By my second semester I had found that I had time for both - working out let me escape my stresses, and when I returned the books, I was rejuvenated and much more effective.
... ... ...
Wow! Emily's own very valuable lessons seem easy enough to put into practice. You can follow her simple, sound advice to manage the high expectations you have for yourself while you find your own work/life balance during any high-pressure endeavor, like grad school!
If you'd like to hear more from Emily, or let her know how her life lessons have benefited you, be sure to leave us a note!
Tuesday, February 7, 2012
Are You Being Fresh?
As we consider what makes a good Global Leader, we should certainly acknowledge that such a role is no walk in the park! We have previously mentioned uncertainties and risk, but what are other upcoming challenges that we, too, should prepare for as we enter the world as leaders ourselves?
Therefore, I'd like to ask you: Are You Being Fresh?
With the constant changes and inevitable obsolescence of technology, companies and leaders are forced to stay relevant with not only products, but also marketing campaigns and customer interaction. It is obviously imperative that companies stay ahead in the competitive environment (which is now on a global scale). Moreover, a greater challenge may be engaging and retaining consumers who are flooded with options and stronger bargaining power.
Firms' competitive edge must constantly evolve and stay current, whether through superior product development, innovation, customer service or simply campaigns that keep them top-of-mind over the competition. In essence, differentiation, but how will they stay (or become) fresh? Now, consider what a challenge that poses in the global landscape. For instance, companies may have to more narrowly define their market, or consider shifting from a niche to mainstream to stay profitable. As you can imagine, there are strong implications to either path on profitability and brand image.
What do you think?
This is but one of the challenges Global Leaders, but I would love to hear yours! Leave some comments on the hurdles that you see awaiting Leaders and possible solutions!
Therefore, I'd like to ask you: Are You Being Fresh?
With the constant changes and inevitable obsolescence of technology, companies and leaders are forced to stay relevant with not only products, but also marketing campaigns and customer interaction. It is obviously imperative that companies stay ahead in the competitive environment (which is now on a global scale). Moreover, a greater challenge may be engaging and retaining consumers who are flooded with options and stronger bargaining power.
Firms' competitive edge must constantly evolve and stay current, whether through superior product development, innovation, customer service or simply campaigns that keep them top-of-mind over the competition. In essence, differentiation, but how will they stay (or become) fresh? Now, consider what a challenge that poses in the global landscape. For instance, companies may have to more narrowly define their market, or consider shifting from a niche to mainstream to stay profitable. As you can imagine, there are strong implications to either path on profitability and brand image.
What do you think?
This is but one of the challenges Global Leaders, but I would love to hear yours! Leave some comments on the hurdles that you see awaiting Leaders and possible solutions!
Do You Have What It Takes? You Will!
We've talked about the mentor program, which I have had the good fortune of experiencing. (Tip: Get a Mentor! Your life will never be the same!)
This specific mentor program, as you know, involves early morning meetings on a monthly basis where the mentors and the protégés (that's me) exchange ideas and get glimpses into relatively unfamiliar facets of the world. We hear about the lives of leaders on a global scale, and even Russian, Venezuelan, Chinese, and German ex-pats' tales of life abroad (which can be a real hoot or slightly terrifying!). And, let's just say this about that : Thank goodness they provide gallons of coffee because trying to function intelligently so early in the morning (7:30AM) is no picnic!
Now, to our topic of the day... Our most recent discussion crossed into What It Takes To Be A Good Global Leader.
Here are the main take-aways from that discussion that you can apply whether you're leadership role is in your personal life, your "All-American" organization, or your MNC looking to capture market share in every country across the Atlantic and beyond...
Adapt to Change and Uncertainty
On a global scale, we're talking cultural, political and currency risk, but every day, you face uncertainty. Your only option (well, the best option, at least) is to just go with it. Adapt the best you can, do the best you can, and move on. The key is just adapting. (Not sure if you've heard this, but - sadly - the world won't change to fit your needs. We are the ones who have to bend. Don't break, just bend. Life will be easier, and in business, you'll get a lot farther.)
Stay Healthy!
I cannot stress this one enough! Take care of yourself! Traveling alone can wear you out! (Planes? Hello, germs! Jet lag? Yikes!) Pair that with the demands of functioning in our fast paced world, managing stress (that stuff can kill you!) and just overall trying to be the best that you can be, and it's no wonder your health can get a little wonky.
Be sure to bring your running shoes, your yoga mat, your goggles and flippers, whatever, with you when you travel. Finding that balance between working the room and working out is invaluable because if you don't take care of your body, where will you live? There's only one of you! Take care of yourself!
Practice Diplomacy.
Realize you are a representative of your country, of your organization, of your family, etc. Recognize the differences in people's cultures and upbringings. Engage and communicate with others with humility and respect. Be curious instead of judgmental. (PS. That's not just a good business decision, but a good life decision.)
Use Your Time Effectively.
Be prepared. Pre-plan. Be clear about your objectives and keep them in mind as your guide. Don't lose sight of your goal, and do the brain work early so you can be efficient. You will always have time limits and other constraints. By being prepared, you'll not only be calmer, but more confident and better equipped to deal with those constraints and any other curve balls that come your way! (Cue Inevitable Uncertainties!)
Have Passion!
Holy moly, have I heard this as I slog my way through this job-search gig!
Here's the gist: If you are not passionate about what you're doing, get your tail outta there! Make a change immediately if not sooner! Buck up, cowboy! You're not where you should be! And your happiness in this short adventure we call life should not be on hiatus for a paycheck!
And on that note, consider this: Where you think you should be and where you really are meant to be may not look exactly the same, nor even look like what you thought. So, be flexible and adapt (ah, there it is again!) to unforeseen opportunities that come your way, particularly those that are outside a rigid definition of the "right" company or industry. Practice being open. In the words of Dr. Seuss, Oh the Places You'll Go! (But, before you go hightailing it, also be sure to Plan Effectively. Don't go jumping into any River Rapids without a Paddle! Follow your heart, but take your brain with you!)
. . .
I think we can all incorporate these ideas and practices into our lives, global leaders or not. Remarkably, you impact those around you more than you think. You are a leader in your own life, and you can set an example that will inspire and motivate others. Think of it like a ripple effect. You really can be the change you want to see in the world on your way to becoming the leader you dream of being!
This specific mentor program, as you know, involves early morning meetings on a monthly basis where the mentors and the protégés (that's me) exchange ideas and get glimpses into relatively unfamiliar facets of the world. We hear about the lives of leaders on a global scale, and even Russian, Venezuelan, Chinese, and German ex-pats' tales of life abroad (which can be a real hoot or slightly terrifying!). And, let's just say this about that : Thank goodness they provide gallons of coffee because trying to function intelligently so early in the morning (7:30AM) is no picnic!
Now, to our topic of the day... Our most recent discussion crossed into What It Takes To Be A Good Global Leader.
Here are the main take-aways from that discussion that you can apply whether you're leadership role is in your personal life, your "All-American" organization, or your MNC looking to capture market share in every country across the Atlantic and beyond...
Adapt to Change and Uncertainty
On a global scale, we're talking cultural, political and currency risk, but every day, you face uncertainty. Your only option (well, the best option, at least) is to just go with it. Adapt the best you can, do the best you can, and move on. The key is just adapting. (Not sure if you've heard this, but - sadly - the world won't change to fit your needs. We are the ones who have to bend. Don't break, just bend. Life will be easier, and in business, you'll get a lot farther.)
Stay Healthy!
I cannot stress this one enough! Take care of yourself! Traveling alone can wear you out! (Planes? Hello, germs! Jet lag? Yikes!) Pair that with the demands of functioning in our fast paced world, managing stress (that stuff can kill you!) and just overall trying to be the best that you can be, and it's no wonder your health can get a little wonky.
Be sure to bring your running shoes, your yoga mat, your goggles and flippers, whatever, with you when you travel. Finding that balance between working the room and working out is invaluable because if you don't take care of your body, where will you live? There's only one of you! Take care of yourself!
Practice Diplomacy.
Realize you are a representative of your country, of your organization, of your family, etc. Recognize the differences in people's cultures and upbringings. Engage and communicate with others with humility and respect. Be curious instead of judgmental. (PS. That's not just a good business decision, but a good life decision.)
Use Your Time Effectively.
Be prepared. Pre-plan. Be clear about your objectives and keep them in mind as your guide. Don't lose sight of your goal, and do the brain work early so you can be efficient. You will always have time limits and other constraints. By being prepared, you'll not only be calmer, but more confident and better equipped to deal with those constraints and any other curve balls that come your way! (Cue Inevitable Uncertainties!)
Have Passion!
Holy moly, have I heard this as I slog my way through this job-search gig!
Here's the gist: If you are not passionate about what you're doing, get your tail outta there! Make a change immediately if not sooner! Buck up, cowboy! You're not where you should be! And your happiness in this short adventure we call life should not be on hiatus for a paycheck!
And on that note, consider this: Where you think you should be and where you really are meant to be may not look exactly the same, nor even look like what you thought. So, be flexible and adapt (ah, there it is again!) to unforeseen opportunities that come your way, particularly those that are outside a rigid definition of the "right" company or industry. Practice being open. In the words of Dr. Seuss, Oh the Places You'll Go! (But, before you go hightailing it, also be sure to Plan Effectively. Don't go jumping into any River Rapids without a Paddle! Follow your heart, but take your brain with you!)
. . .
I think we can all incorporate these ideas and practices into our lives, global leaders or not. Remarkably, you impact those around you more than you think. You are a leader in your own life, and you can set an example that will inspire and motivate others. Think of it like a ripple effect. You really can be the change you want to see in the world on your way to becoming the leader you dream of being!
Saturday, February 4, 2012
Hot Topic : How Valuable is That Real World Experience REALLY?
There is constant debate, especially in our current economy, over whether to pursue an MBA straight out of the gate after undergrad or to enter the workforce and gain experience before going after that graduate degree.
Quite frankly, for me, it was a no brainer because I did not even consider going to graduate school immediately after graduating from college. I didn’t realize that was an option. In my experience, after people graduated, they got a “real” job and figured out that other stuff along the way. Looking back, it seems I unknowingly made the right decision to wait a few years before venturing out into Business school.
My experience in Corporate America benefited me in ways that surprised me throughout my entire time in B-school. The leadership, analytical, and communication skills that were honed during my years “climbing the corporate ladder” gave me a clear advantage over other students.
In fact, looking back on the last three years of robust class discussions, highly demanding team projects, extensive problem solving, and critical thinking, I am certain that the most meaningful contributions of knowledge and insights came from those students who have some work experience.
Notice that does not say extensive, relevant, or even lengthy work experience, but simply experience. Critical thinking, teamwork, problem solving, and leadership are all skills that are sharpened when you encounter situations unique to the workplace – any workplace – and are all put into practice while slogging through your MBA.
For instance, you will frequently, and without fail, fall back on your experiences to make sense of the curriculum and to enhance the other students’ comprehension. Students rely on each other to complement the class discussion and materials because a Business school education goes far beyond the boundaries of power point slides and textbooks. It encompasses learning from the real-life triumphs and tribulations that everyone brings to the table, and without these sorts of knowledge exchanges, an MBA would hardly differ from undergrad, let alone even be worthwhile.
Quite frankly, for me, it was a no brainer because I did not even consider going to graduate school immediately after graduating from college. I didn’t realize that was an option. In my experience, after people graduated, they got a “real” job and figured out that other stuff along the way. Looking back, it seems I unknowingly made the right decision to wait a few years before venturing out into Business school.
My experience in Corporate America benefited me in ways that surprised me throughout my entire time in B-school. The leadership, analytical, and communication skills that were honed during my years “climbing the corporate ladder” gave me a clear advantage over other students.
In fact, looking back on the last three years of robust class discussions, highly demanding team projects, extensive problem solving, and critical thinking, I am certain that the most meaningful contributions of knowledge and insights came from those students who have some work experience.
Notice that does not say extensive, relevant, or even lengthy work experience, but simply experience. Critical thinking, teamwork, problem solving, and leadership are all skills that are sharpened when you encounter situations unique to the workplace – any workplace – and are all put into practice while slogging through your MBA.
For instance, you will frequently, and without fail, fall back on your experiences to make sense of the curriculum and to enhance the other students’ comprehension. Students rely on each other to complement the class discussion and materials because a Business school education goes far beyond the boundaries of power point slides and textbooks. It encompasses learning from the real-life triumphs and tribulations that everyone brings to the table, and without these sorts of knowledge exchanges, an MBA would hardly differ from undergrad, let alone even be worthwhile.
Biding your time in Corporate America will also allow you to establish yourself and your professional contacts. When you finish the degree, you will then have a strong network and be more marketable, and from a financial perspective, time in the workforce allows you to build your savings to minimize the impact of student loans. Some employers even offer tuition reimbursement and/or promotions to help motivate you towards completing your MBA and staying with the company.
By jumping into an MBA program immediately after completing your BBA, you would not be exposed to these opportunities.
My advice to any potential graduate student considering Business school immediately after completing a BBA would be to look at the Universities and programs that interest you and notice their admissions requirements regarding work experience.
My advice to any potential graduate student considering Business school immediately after completing a BBA would be to look at the Universities and programs that interest you and notice their admissions requirements regarding work experience.
Next, identify companies and/or jobs that grab your attention, and see if they offer tuition reimbursement.
Apply to the jobs that are the best fit for you. Consider your long-term career goals and your short-term goal of being accepted into graduate school.
And then, just see where life takes you! You'd be surprised to see how your education from the real world will help you when you’re sitting in class on your first day of your MBA!
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