50ish, Jobless: Yes, Ditch the MBA in Job Search

This former product manager in his 50s had been unemployed long enough to be open to the usual recommendations for a reset. You know, find a way to fill the period-without-work gap, be specific about accomplishments (those owned/team) and quantify them, become adept with advanced AI tools and roll with wage deflation.

But they balked when I also suggested leaving out of the search process the MBA from an Ivy. 

Of course, I could understand their inability to absorb the shock that a once-prized degree could  currently be a liability. In the mid 1970s I had taken college algebra to take calculus in order to apply for the MBA. That was worth it. Even being admitted into the program and taking a few courses did its magic. I made the transition from non-profit to the private sector. 

The collapse in applicants for the MBA tells the new story:

Dartmouth, down 31%

MIT, down 25%

Duke, down 23%

UCLA, down 21%

With some exceptions, most MBAs are too general to be marketable, at least in themselves. The demand is for specialized skills, with several years of experience. AI has the corner on raw knowledge. In addition, there's the cost-efficiency mandate. What manager intent on holding their job will pay the premium that they assume is expected for that credential. At Disney, managers are being told to cut their budgets by about 20%.

Overwhelmed, humans in the hiring loop now enter the process with a determination to exclude - quickly. The MBA in your credentials could be their reason why. 

Careers. Forget all that. It’s about earning a good living, no matter what. Intuitive coaching and, upon request, tarot readings.

Complimentary consultation with Jane Genova, StreetSmart Coaching (janegenova374@gmail.com)




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