For an experienced professional, taking classroom training may seem to have happened ages ago. Getting back to studies can be somewhat difficult for someone who has been working in the industry for a long time. Here are some tips on how best to prepare for the EMBA classroom.
A business school classroom can be an exciting place to be. However, these professionals may suddenly find themselves amongst like-minded students sitting in a class listening to the professors. The classroom is a very different environment from that of the workplace, and if it’s been a while since you were in the world of academia, it’s going to take some time for making certain adjustments.
Having said that, remember that most of your classmates will be in the same situation and thus making the adjustment easier. Pool your resources together, support each other and most of all, and enjoy the experience.
1. Organize yourself
Whatever you anticipate in terms of the time you will spend on your program, double it. Once you get the bug for studying, it can easily consume you. Get organized so you are prepared for the relentless demand for assignments and contributions. That means ring fencing time in your busy diary, delegating more, saying no, and being aware of your learning style and adopting ways to play to your preferences. And don’t forget that includes taking the lives of your loved ones into account.
2. The library has changed!
When you last did some serious studying, the world probably didn’t have Twitter, LinkedIn or Wikipedia. You might only have gone to the library. Academia is now using the power of search engines, online libraries and online forums for cohorts to learn, share and access materials. You can no longer be late with your assignment and say the dog ate your homework. The Web means the volume of information out there is too big for anyone, so be selective and disciplined.
3. Be yourself
Getting into the rhythm of regular study can be bumpy for some. A common reason is self-limiting beliefs like ‘I’m not as good as others on the program’, ‘I don’t have enough/too much to say’ and ‘I don’t know what they are looking for’. There are usually no definitive answers, say what you believe and hold your educators to account about what and how it is required. Show relentless curiosity and remember to be you.
4. Actively reflect
Doing an executive MBA is a wonderful opportunity to do something many managers fail to find time for in the workplace and that is to reflect. Reflecting used to be seen as a solitary activity and a poor cousin of ‘doing’ which is valued more highly in Western cultures. Reflecting in today’s digital world is far more proactive. Tweeting, blogging, joining communities of practice online or in person, keeping a video/audio or an old-fashioned written diary are all ways for you to actively reflect in support of your learning.
5. Don’t differentiate between work and study
A common feature of mature study students is seeing their MBA experience as separate from the day job. Compartmentalizing can help you to organize yourself. However, if you start with the mindset of seeing your learning as inextricably linked to business performance, integrating it into your current career context and experience, you will find the journey a more productive and rewarding one.
