Exploring MBA career success

Hay, AJ ORCID logoORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-2629-230X and Hodgkinson, M, 2006. Exploring MBA career success. Career Development International, 11 (2), pp. 108-124. ISSN 1362-0436

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Abstract

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to examine the meaning of career success in relation to the attainment of an MBA degree, for a group of experienced managers. In so doing, the paper aims to consider the adequacy of MBA career success, defined solely in terms of external criteria. Design/methodology/approach – A total of 36 in-depth interviews were undertaken with MBA alumni which sought to capture the individual's own account of their career success in relation to their MBA. The study utilised an inductive data analysis approach. Findings – The findings revealed a diversity of meanings given to MBA career success, with success generally being expressed in much broader terms than conventional notions of fast track career advancement. The salience of internal criteria for judging MBA career success is thus highlighted. The findings may be seen to further dispel the myth that MBA students are concerned exclusively with status and salary. Research limitations/implications – The study focuses on the experiences of graduates from only one MBA programme. Additionally, the study reports retrospective accounts of MBA career success, a longitudinal design would be advantageous. Practical implications – The demonstration of a plurality of career success provides potential advantage for business schools recruiting MBA students. Organisations can benefit from a wider understanding of MBA career success. Originality/value – The findings suggest that the value of the MBA encompasses more than fast track career success.

Item Type: Journal article
Publication Title: Career Development International
Creators: Hay, A.J. and Hodgkinson, M.
Publisher: Emerald Group Publishing Limited
Date: 2006
Volume: 11
Number: 2
ISSN: 1362-0436
Identifiers:
Number
Type
10.1108/13620430610651877
DOI
Rights: © 2006 Emerald Group Publishing Limited
Divisions: Schools > Nottingham Business School
Record created by: EPrints Services
Date Added: 09 Oct 2015 11:13
Last Modified: 09 Jun 2017 13:52
URI: https://irep.ntu.ac.uk/id/eprint/24456

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