In today’s fast-paced and competitive job market, career development has become a top priority for many professionals. With the rise of advanced degrees such as MBAs, individuals are constantly seeking ways to enhance their career capital and stay ahead of the curve. But what exactly is career capital and how can it be developed? To shed light on this topic, we turn to the co-authors of the recent article, Elizabeth Houldsworth, Andrea Tresidder, and Tatiana Rowson, who share their insights and experiences on career capital development as experienced by MBA alumni.
Q: What inspired you to write this article on career capital development?
Elizabeth Houldsworth: As career coaches, we have seen firsthand the impact of career capital on the success of MBA alumni. We wanted to delve deeper into this concept and explore how it is acquired and developed by individuals in the real world.
Andrea Tresidder: We also noticed a lack of research on this topic and felt that our combined expertise and experience could contribute to the existing literature on career development.
Tatiana Rowson: Additionally, we wanted to provide practical insights and tips for MBA alumni and professionals in general, to help them navigate the complex world of career capital and achieve their career goals.
Q: Can you briefly explain what career capital is and why it is important for professionals?
Elizabeth Houldsworth: Career capital refers to the skills, knowledge, and experiences that individuals possess and can leverage to advance their careers. It includes both tangible assets such as degrees, certifications, and professional networks, as well as intangible assets such as personal qualities, values, and reputation.
Andrea Tresidder: In today’s competitive job market, having a strong career capital is crucial for professionals to stand out and achieve their career goals. It not only helps individuals secure desirable job opportunities but also enables them to adapt to changing job market trends and advance in their careers.
Tatiana Rowson: Moreover, career capital is not limited to a specific industry or job role. It can be transferred and applied to different contexts, making it a valuable asset throughout one’s career journey.
Q: How do MBA alumni typically develop their career capital?
Elizabeth Houldsworth: MBA programs are designed to equip students with a diverse set of skills and experiences, making them highly sought after by employers. However, it is up to the individual to actively develop and leverage their career capital.
Andrea Tresidder: This can be done through various means such as internships, networking events, and extracurricular activities. Additionally, MBA alumni can also continue their education through professional development courses and certifications.
Tatiana Rowson: It is also important for individuals to reflect on their values, strengths, and goals, and align their career capital development accordingly. This can help them identify areas where they need to improve and focus their efforts on building their career capital in those areas.
Q: Can you share any success stories of MBA alumni who have effectively developed their career capital?
Elizabeth Houldsworth: We have worked with many MBA alumni who have successfully utilized their career capital to advance in their careers. One particular success story that comes to mind is that of a former MBA student who had a background in finance but wanted to transition into the tech industry. Through networking and upskilling in relevant areas, he was able to secure a high-level position at a tech company within a year of completing his MBA.
Andrea Tresidder: Another example is of an MBA alumna who had a passion for social impact and sustainability. She used her MBA program to gain knowledge and skills in these areas and leveraged her personal network to secure a position at a non-profit organization that aligned with her values and goals.
Tatiana Rowson: These success stories highlight the importance of actively developing and leveraging career capital to achieve one’s career aspirations.
Q: What advice do you have for MBA alumni and professionals looking to enhance their career capital?
Elizabeth Houldsworth: Firstly, it is important to continuously reflect on your values, strengths, and goals and align your career capital development accordingly. Secondly, don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and explore new opportunities and industries. And lastly, never underestimate the power of networking and building genuine relationships with others in your field.
Andrea Tresidder: Additionally, keep yourself updated with industry trends and continuously upskill through professional development courses and certifications. And most importantly, have a growth mindset
