Getting the most out of an online MBA from a real-world business perspective. A business example to expound on these academic principles and their practical applications: the corporate strategy shift executed by Microsoft under CEO Satya Nadella.
Getting the most out of an online MBA – Engagement and Interaction
Business Example
When Satya Nadella took over as CEO in 2014, he emphasized the importance of employee engagement and a culture that encouraged dialogue and open conversation. Town Hall meetings were organized to facilitate this interactive approach.
Parallel to Online MBA
The Microsoft example underscores the relevance of engagement at all organizational levels. An online MBA student should take this as a cue to remain actively engaged, not just with course material but also with peers and faculty. Interpersonal interaction often serves as an additional learning layer, offering nuanced insights that might not be evident in formal study.
Getting the most out of an online MBA – Time Management
Business Example
One of the first things Nadella did was to streamline Microsoft’s operations by focusing on cloud computing and reducing the company’s spread across too many domains.
Parallel to Online MBA
Just as Microsoft had to prioritize its strategic objectives, an online MBA student needs to prioritize time and tasks effectively. Effective time management is critical for understanding and absorbing complex business strategies and models, particularly when juggling other responsibilities.
Getting the most out of an online MBA – Adaptability and Openness to Feedback
Business Example
Nadella’s “growth mindset” culture is based on learning from failures and successes. The model embraced failure as a learning opportunity.
Parallel to Online MBA
Nadella’s approach resonates with Dweck’s concept of a “Growth Mindset.” An online MBA student should emulate this by viewing setbacks and criticism as opportunities for improvement rather than as failures.
Getting the most out of an online MBA – Technological Proficiency
Business Example
Under Nadella, Microsoft adopted a cloud-first strategy and moved towards becoming a leader in the field of AI, demonstrating a significant technological shift.
Parallel to Online MBA
The company’s strategic transformation showcases the importance of staying ahead of technological advancements—a crucial takeaway for MBA students who are expected to master various digital tools and platforms as part of their coursework.
Getting the most out of an online MBA – Networking
Business Example
Microsoft has always placed considerable emphasis on building industry partnerships and alliances. This strategic networking has led to collaborations with companies like Adobe and SAP.
Parallel to Online MBA
For an MBA student, professional networking can open doors to internships, job opportunities, and collaborative research. Even in an online setting, strategic networking is invaluable.
Getting the most out of an online MBA – Lifelong Learning
Business Example
Microsoft’s journey over the years stands as a testament to the idea of perpetual evolution, marked by its shift from being a primarily software-selling company to a service-oriented business.
Parallel to Online MBA
The company’s evolution is a lesson in the importance of adaptability and lifelong learning, principles that are universally applicable, including to MBA students who aim to become the business leaders of tomorrow.
The Microsoft case serves as an illustrative example of how principles important for getting the most out of an online MBA —engagement, time management, adaptability, technological proficiency, networking, and lifelong learning—are mirrored in the business environment. These elements not only contribute to effective learning but also to a more holistic understanding and application of business management concepts.