Tips on how students can excel in MBA degree

Rigorous curriculum?
Staunch assignment deadlines?
Challenging entrance examinations?
Tedious internships?
difficulty fitting in with peers from different cultures and races?
Fear of placements. Insecurities about skill development

Have these thoughts ever crossed your mind that has forced you to believe that pursuing an MBA degree can be way too cumbersome for you? Fear not, because in our blog today, we are here to break these myths and ensure that an MBA provides an enormous choice of careers to choose from and a plethora of opportunities to take your career to the next level!

Finding the right post-graduate program to enroll in often proves to be quite a challenge for students to choose from so many career choices. However, if you have made up your mind to start a business of your own or join your family-owned business then look no further, an MBA is the best fit for you. Pursuing MBA will provide you with the required knowledge, skills, and morals that will help you to fit right in with the business community.

Top Reasons as to why to pursue MBA:

• High Salary package: Whether in any private or public company, it is a well-known fact that an individual holding an MBA degree’s salary package will be significantly higher compared to the one without an MBA degree.
• Start your venture: With an MBA degree, many graduates can pursue their dream of becoming an entrepreneur. By pursuing an MBA degree, you can attain the required knowledge and practice that will be needed to develop and operate your venture. While pursuing your MBA degree you will be trained in business management, planning, and handling of finances. All the aforementioned skills will be a perfect blend for you to manage your business effectively while playing an important role in developing the economy of the country.
• Better career opportunities: The curriculum of MBA programs is designed in such a way that you get a broader knowledge across varied verticals. During the tenure of the 2 years program, several core areas are covered, including but not limited to, Human resources, Communication skills, Statistics, Technology, and Information systems, Economics, and Finance. Gaining expertise in these key areas will qualify you to pursue a successful career in multiple areas and business sectors as well as public sectors.
• Great opportunity to expand your networks: Pursuing MBA provides opportunities to meet new people across different industries and expand your network. During your 2 years course, you will get an opportunity to meet people who include: recruiters, keynote speakers, prominent leaders from the industry, budding entrepreneurs, etc. Pursuing MBA will allow you to meet and interact with future and ideal business managers and executives.
• Improves communication skills: In the MBA program, you will be taught how to speak, communicate effectively, carry out business conversations, etc. You will be trained to develop effective presentations. Having a stronghold on your communication skills is very important since it plays a major role in the business world.
• Personal Development: After pursuing MBA it makes you a completely different person, ready to compete in any aspect of the world. It will give you a new outlook and a different perspective on the business world. In the MBA program, you will develop survival skills, professionalism, expert communicators, etc.

Tips for Excelling in an MBA Program:
The MBA program is a great opportunity to upscale your knowledge of the business world and to pursue valuable skills for a successful career after graduation. But between the links to the completion, there is a certain task that needs to be completed to have a successful career. Below are some tips that will help you excel in the MBA program.

• Be clear on the objectives: One of the best ways to excel in your MBA program is to be very clear with the objectives. With a set objective it will help you in choosing the right course and the specialization and you can concentrate on the course completion without any second thoughts in mind.
• Get your priorities set: Among the tasks listed, it is very important to list out the activities that are on priority. Learning to prioritize the tasks helps you to succeed not only in the MBA program but also in balancing work out in the competitive world.
• Ask for help when needed: If you get stuck in one activity then it is always advised to ask your teammates, professors, alumni to help you out in the work they will only add on or enhance your learning experience. There is no shame in asking for help from others when needed.
• Study tactically: When you are studying MBA, your time is very valuable. It is of utmost importance to maximize your time by developing good study habits. To boost your daily productivity in your studies is it always advised to prepare a to-do list one day prior. Doing this will help you sort your task and help you to achieve your goals.
• Take adequate rest: Studying and completing the task might be tiresome and might end up consuming an entire day. It is important to make sure there are sufficient and frequent breaks in between long hours of study. Taking a power nap and going to bed on time will help. You may also try to do some meditation and yoga to keep you focused and active.

MBA program admission requirements and procedures

JAIN Entrance Test (JET) is now starting for MBA candidates on June 1st and 2nd of 2023. Students who have scored 50% or more than that percentile in JET or any other MBA entrance examinations such as MAT, CAT, XAT, NMAT, or GMAT are eligible for admission to JAIN’s CMS Business School for their prestigious MBA journey.

So, you're planning to appear for JET and don’t know what exactly you have to do in JET. Well, fret not, because we have all your questions answered!

• JET is composed of four assessment formats: a written test, followed by essay writing, presentation, and personal interview.
• Candidates who pass the written test will be shortlisted for the subsequent rounds.
• In essay writing, the candidate(s) should write an essay on a given topic for a maximum duration of 10–15 minutes.
• Once the candidate is shortlisted for the presentation round, they will be given topics for presentation, which will be updated on the student dashboard by a specific date given by the university (you can check on https://www.jainuniversity.ac.in/, https://bschool.cms.ac.in/).
• Candidates finalised for the personal interview round will focus on subject knowledge, goal clarity, communication skills, attitude, academic credentials, work experience, and achievements.
• The final result will be based on the performance in essay writing, presentation, and personal interview.

Exam Pattern for JET 2023

Comparison between MBA and other post-graduate business degrees

When we talk about an MBA (Masters in Business Administration), we mean a two-year professional degree programme that provides a comprehensive understanding of various business functions, such as human resources, finance, marketing, operations, logistics, aviation, business analytics, etc., whereas other post-graduate degrees can be master's degree programmes focused on a specific academic study such as science, commerce, the humanities, etc.

A lot of people might think that opting for the decades-old conventional postgraduate degree is the best option; however, what they don’t know is that the MBA has way more potential than these programmes. Curious to know how? Come, let’s explore in this brief explanation:

Benefits of studying in top B-schools or universities

Studying at the JAIN (deemed-to-be university) Centre for Management Studies (CMS) School can offer several benefits for students. Here are some key advantages of studying at JAIN CMS School:

• Reputation and Accreditation: JAIN CMS School is a renowned university that has been recognized by various accreditation bodies and has a strong reputation for providing quality education and producing industry-ready graduates.
• Industry-Driven Curriculum: The well-structured and industry-driven curriculum at JAIN CMS School is designed to align with the requirements and trends of the corporate world. This will promote practical skills, application-oriented learning, and experiential learning methods, ensuring that students gain the knowledge and skills needed to excel in their chosen fields.
• Faculty Expertise: JAIN CMS School boasts a team of experienced faculty members who bring a combination of academic knowledge and industry experience to the classroom. They provide valuable insights, mentorship, and guidance to students, helping them develop a strong foundation in business and management.
• Industry Collaborations and Internships: The school has established collaborations and partnerships with leading organisations, providing students with opportunities for internships, industry projects, and guest lectures. These connections facilitate practical exposure, networking, and potential job placements.
• Entrepreneurship and Innovation Focus: JAIN CMS School encourages entrepreneurship and fosters an innovative mindset among students. The school provides a supportive ecosystem for budding entrepreneurs, offering incubation centres, mentorship programmes, and opportunities to develop and launch their business ideas.
• Global Exposure and Exchange Programmes: JAIN CMS School promotes global exposure and offers exchange programmes with partner universities abroad. Students have the chance to study in international settings, experience different cultures, and gain a global perspective, enhancing their cross-cultural understanding and global employability.
• Skill Development and Personality Enhancement: JAIN CMS School emphasises holistic development and offers various skill development programmes to enhance students' communication, leadership, problem-solving, and critical thinking abilities. The school focuses on grooming well-rounded individuals equipped with both academic knowledge and practical skills.
• Placement and Career Support: JAIN CMS School has a dedicated placement cell that assists students in securing job placements and internships. The cell conducts career counselling sessions, arranges campus recruitment drives, and provides support in resume building, interview preparation, and networking.
• State-of-the-Art Infrastructure: The school is equipped with modern infrastructure, including well-equipped classrooms, libraries, computer labs, and other facilities that support a conducive learning environment. Access to digital resources and technological tools enhances the learning experience for students.
• Alumni Network: JAIN CMS School has a strong alumni network comprising successful professionals in various industries. The network provides valuable connections, mentorship opportunities, and industry insights, which can benefit current students in terms of guidance, internships, and job referrals.

Job prospects after completing an MBA

Once you are done with your MBA programme, a plethora of job prospects and career opportunities will line up for you. Why? Because the degree is so highly regarded by employers and is capable of nourishing you with the skills, knowledge, and network necessary to advance your career in the best ways possible. Here are some potential job prospects after completing an MBA:

• Business Management and Leadership Roles: An MBA equips you with the skills to take on managerial and leadership positions in various industries. You may find opportunities as a general manager, operations manager, project manager, or department head.
• Strategy and Consulting: A lot of MBA graduates like to pursue careers in strategy and consulting. They can take on the roles of business analysts, consultants, etc. who will develop business strategies, analyse market trends, solve complex problems, and provide recommendations for growth and improvement.
• Finance and Investment Banking: MBA graduates who specialise in the financial sector can find lucrative opportunities in the finance sector and work in areas like mergers and acquisitions, risk management, financial planning, or investment management.
• Entrepreneurship and start-ups: An MBA can provide valuable skills and knowledge for aspiring entrepreneurs. You may choose to start your own business or join an existing start-up.
• Marketing and Brand Management: MBA graduates with a specialisation in marketing can take up leadership roles as marketing managers, brand managers, market analysts, customer relationship managers, etc., responsible for developing marketing strategies, managing brand positioning, and analysing consumer behaviour to drive business growth.
• Operations and Supply Chain Management: An MBA in operations and supply chain management can pave the way for various career advancement opportunities in logistics, procurement, retail management, operations management, etc.
• Human Resources Management: The MBA in Human Resources is one of the most common degree programmes, and therefore it can open up avenues in areas like talent management, recruitment, training and development, or organisational effectiveness.
• Executive Leadership and C-Suite Positions: With years of experience and the right skill development, MBA graduates possess the potential to progress to executive-level positions, such as Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Chief Financial Officer (CFO), Chief Operating Officer (COO), or other senior leadership roles, leading organisations and shaping strategic decisions.

Preparing for entrance exams like GMAT, GRE, etc.

We understand that appearing for entrance exams like the GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test) or GRE (Graduate Record Examination) can take a mental toll on students, but it can be easily cracked if the student takes a systematic approach and devotes dedicated effort. So, we have listed down some easy steps to help you prepare effectively:

• Become aware of the exam format: First things first: you need to know what the exam structure is, what the different sections are, how many marks they carry, etc.
• Create a detailed study plan: Based on your goals, strengths, and weaknesses, you must devise a well-structured study plan that will allocate sufficient time for each section and create a realistic timeline leading up to your exam date.
• Invest in gathering study materials: Study materials work wonders during the preparation of entrance exams, so do your best to collect relevant study materials such as previous year question papers, official guides, mock test papers, preparation books, etc.
• Take mock exams and improve weak areas: When you start taking mock tests, you will be able to identify your weak and challenging areas that need more attention. You must also review your performance on a daily basis and refine your strategies to improve your outcome for the finale!
• Join study groups or classes: Sometimes learning in a collaborative environment helps you get different perspectives on the same topic, and you get to improve your study routine accordingly. Studying in groups also gives you access to additional resources and support.
• Follow a healthy lifestyle: Leading a healthy life will boost your energy levels and help you give your best output. So, you must try to get sufficient sleep, exercise regularly, and eat a balanced, nutritious diet. Your concentration will automatically improve once you start taking care of your physical and mental well-being.

Internship opportunities during MBA

Internship opportunities should be treated as valuable experiences for both full-time and weekend MBA students. While the internship experience for a full-time MBA student can be more of a dedicated programme, weekend MBA students can also explore internship options that align with their schedules. We have listed some considerations and avenues for securing internships:

• Seek support from your programme's resources: You can consult with your MBA programme's career services office or internship office, and they can help you find available internship opportunities, connect you with employers, and offer support throughout the internship search process.
• Leverage your professional network: It’s time to utilise your existing network and connections to explore internship opportunities. You can do this by reaching out to your seniors, colleagues, mentors, and known industry professionals who either inform you about the available internship positions or inform you of them.
• Participate in career fairs and networking events: The more you attend industry seminars, conferences, career fairs, and networking events, the more opportunities will come your way to connect with potential recruiters, employers, consulting companies, etc. who can offer you relevant internship openings.
• Online job portals and internship databases: With increased digitization and the intervention of the internet, things are moving at a faster pace than before. Hence, it is the right time to leverage the impact and use websites, online portals, and internship databases such as InternMatch, LinkedIn, Glassdoor, etc. to come across lucrative internship opportunities that you can apply to.
• Approach local businesses and start-ups: You might be acquainted with local businesses or start-ups that cannot afford high salaries for experienced professionals due to budgetary constraints. However, these small businesses are always open to hiring dedicated interns to whom they can render hands-on training and impart practical knowledge. Therefore, you can consider reaching out to local businesses and start-ups in your area to add to your internship experience.

Skills and qualities required for a successful career in MBA in business management 

Knowledge, skills, and experience go hand-in-hand while establishing a successful career after an MBA in business management. While knowledge and experience are about theoretical and practical exposure simultaneously, the acquisition of skills and qualities is an ongoing process. So, we have curated the most sought-after skills and qualities required for you to have a successful career in MBA business management:

• Effective Leadership: Effective leadership skills are important if you plan to manage teams, take crucial strategic decisions, and drive the organisation towards success. Strong leadership qualities include the ability to motivate and inspire others, communicate effortlessly, and lead by example.
• Smooth Communication: No matter what role you are donning, excellent communication skills are a must if you are planning to step into the business world! This includes both verbal and written communication, active listening, and the ability to customise messages for different audiences.
• Dedicated Teamwork and Collaboration: Having a positive team spirit to work in cross-functional teams helps build strong relationships with colleagues and stakeholders, derive unique perspectives, and contribute to an individual’s growth.
• Analytical and problem-solving skills: Business management caters to solving complex problems, handling huge amounts of data, identifying problems, and developing innovative solutions. That’s where your strong analytical and problem-solving skills will help you to think critically, gather and analyse important information, and make informed decisions.
• Ethical and Responsible Behaviour: The most important virtue of any leader is integrity and ethical conduct. These two qualities hold paramount significance in business management as they are a reflection of an individual’s character and promote trust, reputation, and sustainable success.
• Emotional Intelligence: Emotional intelligence is the ability to comprehend and manage emotions, both in oneself and others. As the future leader of a business or an organisation, an MBA student must develop the skills of self-awareness, empathy, interpersonal skills, and the ability to identify and resolve conflicts effectively.

Networking opportunities for MBA students and alumni

Networking is a crucial component of exploring career opportunities, building relationships, and gaining industry insights for MBA students and alumni. So, how can you tap into these opportunities? Here’s how:

• Campus events: Your business school must be organising campus events every now and then where you can get to meet alumni, guest speakers, influencers in the business world, or industry-specific big shots. You can leverage the opportunity to connect with these professionals and develop a diverse network.
• Participate in alumni networks: Your alumni play an important role in shaping future growth opportunities for you. So, try to engage with them as much as possible by joining annual reunions, alumni associations, or online forums or groups dedicated to your alma mater.
• Social media connect: We are all well aware of the fact that social media has become one of the most powerful tools to connect with someone professionally. Thanks to networking platforms like LinkedIn, Reddit, Quora, etc., you can engage in relevant discussions, join industry-related groups, and reach out to industry professionals, alumni, and colleagues.
• Volunteer and community outreach programmes: This is one of the most recommended ways to connect with professionals who share the same thoughts and interests as you. Meeting someone through these events not only offers meaningful relationships but can also open new avenues to meet like-minded individuals, build relationships, and showcase your skills.

Developing leadership skills in an MBA program

Developing leadership skills is a continuous process that is going to reward you in the best possible ways. Remember that as an MBA student, it is important for you to develop leadership skills because a few years down the line, you are not going to just lead teams but also steer organisations on a huge scale, and that’s when true leadership will be put to the test! So, we have listed some ways to cultivate your leadership abilities during your MBA studies:

• Active participation in group projects: MBA programmes provide numerous opportunities for group activities and collaborative projects where one needs to work in teams. You should utilise these opportunities to your benefit by participating in such events more, as it will allow you to practise leading a team, coordinating tasks, and making decisions.
• Join student organisations: Several business schools allow MBA students to showcase their leadership skills by joining student organisations focused on various business sectors or areas of interest. Joining these student organisations will help the students take charge of events and show true sportsmanship.
• Attend leadership workshops and seminars: If your school is organising leadership development seminars, workshops, or guest speaker events, then this is your golden opportunity! Join these events as much as possible, as they will provide you with valuable insights into effective leadership styles, strategies, and practises.
• Practice the concept of constructive criticism: you must actively seek feedback from your professors, mentors, peers, seniors, and even juniors. When you are open to constructive criticism, only then can you get the opportunity for growth and improvement to continuously refine your skills.

Importance of team building and teamwork in MBA- Success stories of MBA graduates

Do you know that, according to the Harvard Business Review, nearly a third of the top 500 best-performing CEOs have an MBA degree? Amusing, isn’t it? Being at the top of the organisational hierarchy, these CEOs have to lead vast teams of individuals from different departments and backgrounds. As challenging as it may sound, it is the skills that they have developed during their MBA journey that have made them capable enough to become team leaders. Let’s see some of the most influential CEOs who are known to be excellent leaders!

• Satya Nadella, CEO of Microsoft: His exemplary skills in listening and clarity of vision that he learned during his MBA journey have helped him tackle complex business challenges.
• Sundar Pichai, CEO, Google and Alphabet: His strong analytical and strategic thinking skills have helped him solve complex problems and lead huge teams across the globe.
• Indra Nooyi, Director, Amazon; Ex-CEO, Pepsi: Ranked 13th on the Forbes list of The World’s 100 Most Powerful Women, Indra Nooyi is known to lead diverse teams and bring innovation to the organisation.
• Ajaypal Singh Banga, CEO, MasterCard: Ajaypal Banga’s impressive leadership and teambuilding qualities earned during his MBA journey have rewarded him so much, one of which includes the former President of the United States, Barack Obama, appointing him as a member of the Commission on Enhancing National Cybersecurity.

Way Forward!

All said and done, if the business is the way forward, there can be no better degree than an MBA. From bringing out effective communication skills to developing business acumen, an MBA degree outclasses most other degrees and helps in developing character and a strong business sense.