I have been often asked this question as a professional; what is your worth as an employee? The truth is that every professional goes through a phase of self-analysis and self-doubt; am I replaceable at work? Am I still appreciated for the initiatives that I bring to the table? What if a more qualified junior colleague takes over my role and my employer feel I am less worthy?
These are all-natural thoughts based on real, factual feelings and situations. Professional rustiness is a real deal and many employees who have been used to the 9-5 work culture, in redundant work streams often find it hard for themselves to thrive in their own professional growth.
In my role as a coach and mentor to young professionals, I often facilitate sessions where business graduates working the mundane ask, “ What’s my next career move?” upon asking when they invested in themselves, in their qualifications, you would get the routine reply of 5 years ago, a decade ago. Imagine how the business world has changed around you? In the last 5 years we have seen new professions being developed, we have seen tools being launched, we have experienced the rate at which project turnaround, we have experience growth, speed, accuracy and yet our professionals who did a business degree a decade ago are happy with what they learnt and when.
Not so prudent, is it?
With plenty online learning opportunities, we still find excuses of time, affordability, over thinking basically. If I was to tell you that you can easily do an online MBA at a fraction of a price and that too from an internationally recognised university what would your response be?
TELL ME MORE.
In the UK there is always greater acceptance and appreciation of the MBA. Every sector focuses on numerous business outcomes; profitability, sustainability and growth and only a professional who understands how businesses work will be an asset to any organisation. An MBA, be it in person or online, becomes a clear testament of how you will grow as a professional.
I’ve recently explored numerous online MBA opportunities, programmes that are designed to focus on professionals who will pursue the MBA along with full time work. These programmes are rigorous yet accommodating to schedules, purchasing power and recognition. In short, its not as tedious as one might think. Plus, if you are someone who feels that an MBA was my ultimate goal but the what ifs stopped you from pursuing it, you might just need to read this once more.
So the big question: Is an online MBA worth it?
My reasons:
- Yes, if you are looking at career growth opportunities in the UK and internationally.
- Yes, if you want to be up-to-date with real, scenario based learning.
- Yes, if you want to be a valuable employer asset.
- Yes, if you are looking for a career move anywhere in the world. You have a global MBA, please.
- Yes, if you feel that this is an investment, NOT an expense.
- No, if you feel you are satisfied with the current role you are in and don’t want to progress further.
In 20 years of being in the higher education space, I’ve come to believe that real business acumen comes from stepping outside your comfort zone and making new knowledge meaningful in your own context. Your specialism can and should be something you genuinely connect with, whether that’s HR, marketing, data analytics, AI, finance, or even blockchain. But pursuing an MBA positions you as a well-rounded professional, someone who understands not just their niche, but how an entire business functions and thrives.
So, if you’re still on the fence about investing in yourself, take a step back and look at the bigger picture. It’s not just a financial commitment; it’s an investment in perspective, confidence, and long-term career mobility. The returns aren’t always immediate, but they are lasting: stronger decision-making, broader opportunities, and the ability to think strategically rather than just operationally.
Sometimes, the real question isn’t “Can I afford this?” it’s “Can I afford not to grow in this way?”
Authored by
Noorulain Zafer
