Earning a Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree creates immediate value in the workplace for working professionals. Opportunities abound, including promotions, higher income and the chance to move into executive positions. Plus, online MBA programs like the one offered by Northern Kentucky University (NKU) offer working professionals the flexibility needed to attain the beneficial credential without pausing one’s career. But even though the work-related benefits of attaining an MBA are significant, there are numerous intangible benefits that, for many, far outweigh a promotion or paycheck.
Sense of Achievement
Through undertaking the rigorous coursework required to attain an MBA, the sense of achievement you feel once you accomplish your goals can stay with you for the rest of your life. Many online MBA graduates earn their degree while also holding down a full-time job, which is not an easy task. Graduating with an MBA brings a sense of pride and accomplishment that is priceless and often life-changing.
Confidence
A sense of achievement breeds confidence, and confidence is a core component of effective leadership. While learning management and leadership skills is a part of most MBA programs, the feeling of confidence comes as you take on new challenges and achieve each goal. Leaders make tough decisions, manage with authority and inspire employees, all traits that simply aren’t possible without self-confidence.
Better Understanding of Investing and Personal Finance
MBA programs usually offer coursework in financial management, imparting knowledge that not only transfers to the job, but to our personal lives as well. This coursework will help you better understand the complicated world of investments and finance, putting you in a better position to manage your own portfolio. Developing your financial literacy skills through advanced MBA courses can have a lifelong impact on your personal decision-making in all financial matters.
Improved Negotiation and Communication Skills
Enhanced communication skills are among the main benefits of earning an MBA degree. According to employers surveyed by the Graduate Management Admissions Council, communication is one of the most important skill areas for recent MBA grads. While improving your communication skills will make you a top prospect for any job, the personal benefits of improved communication skills will outlast your career.
Communication skills can vary from one-on-one verbal communication, oral presentation and written communication to group and public communication — all essential skills for leadership roles in any organization and absolutely beneficial to every other facet of life. Strong listening and speaking skills aid us as we negotiate contracts, visit with teachers, haggle with salespeople and even consult with healthcare providers.
The ability to effectively problem-solve, influence and negotiate directly correlates with the ability and confidence that come from strong verbal communication skills. Communication skills acquired through an MBA program are not only highly desirable in the workplace, but they will enrich your interpersonal relationships as well. The quality of your life depends on the quality of your communication, and MBA graduates take the driver’s seat when it comes to exemplary communication skills.
The numerous personal benefits of earning an MBA can be just as critical as the immediate impact on advancing your career and income. While achieving a successful and fulfilling career is important, the personal benefits of earning an MBA will serve you well in any occupation and stay with you for a lifetime.
Learn more about NKU’s online MBA program.
