Are you wondering whether you should go back to school and get your MBA?It’s a huge question for most ambitious people. If you’re reading this, you’re probably an entrepreneurial type. All the top talent these days are, even if they’re not interested in running their own business.
And the truth? You have to be entrepreneurial-minded to thrive in any job these days.
So how can you quickly elevate your game?
Two choices:
Go back to school for your MBA and invest $100k+.
Follow the advice in this article, and invest in smaller scale online trainings for entrepreneurs.
Although an MBA is a wonderful investment, it’s my belief that you can learn many of the same skills through experience and by tapping into the wealth of resources online – some free, and others paid, but none that are nearly as costly as an MBA.
If you have the funds to go all the way and spend time getting your master’s, I support you. If you don’t have 100k lying around or just feel like an MBA is not quite right for you, I want you to know there are other ways to master the skills you’d learn at school.
As an executive recruiter I’ve interviewed thousands of hopeful candidates and I’ve noticed a few distinctive characteristics about savvy types who have their MBA or have taken advantage of online business programs, like Marie Forleo’s B-School.
Today I want to give you a jumpstart on these skills by letting you in on the unique traits I’ve observed firsthand with these candidates…
They’re logical thinkers and speakers.They’ve mastered clear, concise communication by learning how to think logically.My best tip for thinking and communicating logically in a work situation might seem counterintuitive, but it works: Focus on listening.When you’re actually listening, rather than waiting for your turn to speak or formulating what you’re going to say, you pick up on the finer details and emotions behind what’s being said and are able to answer directly and succinctly. Personally, I find that detailed note taking makes me a better listener. Determine what tactics you need to implement to become a better listener and practice, practice, practice.
They’re direct.Entrepreneurial types will ALWAYS answer the question directly in front of them. They don’t ramble or go off on tangents. They immediately answer the question being asked.When you’re being interviewed or having a conversation at work, make sure you’re not beating around the bush. Get right to the point and always answer the question being asked in the simplest, most powerful way possible.
They give examples.Even if the question doesn’t call for it, entrepreneurial types often provide examples of their work. They really know how to illustrate their specific skillset and accomplishments.Next time you go to an interview or are being considered for a promotion, prepare yourself by getting clear on the examples you want to share and how you’ll communicate them succinctly.
They ask thoughtful questions.This demonstrates a thirst for knowledge and their desire to continue learning and growing forever. Once you stop learning, you stop evolving in your career.You should always ask thoughtful questions rather than assuming you have all the answers.
They have high emotional intelligence.I’ve noticed that the brightest business-minded people are super tuned into their surroundings and varying temperaments of the people they work with.This is crucial at any level of employment, since you need to be able to work well with a wide range of people.
They’re multi-passionate.This is especially key at the managerial and executive level. You have to be able to wear many hats and do it well.You’re always going to have your hands in many different projects, and you need to be comfortable with that and thrive regardless, without feeling or appearing scattered. It helps a lot if you have a wide range of genuine interests.
As a business owner of over 6 years and someone who evaluates talent for a living, these are the six core traits I consistently notice in all my communications with them.
To recap, thinking and communicating logically and clearly, being direct, giving examples, asking questions, developing emotional intelligence, and being multi-passionate are the six keys to winning at work without investing in an MBA.
Which of these six areas do you need to work on? Have you already mastered one or more of them? We welcome your comments below!
