How to keep up with the latest business trends

An MBA is one of the most competitive degree programs in the world, due to its ability to transform your career prospects and secure you a top-tier job in your preferred field.

But how can MBA grads ensure they secure success post-MBA? This was a question posed during a panel session at the Association of MBAs (AMBA) & Business Graduates Association (BGA) Festival of Excellence 2021, which examined the future of business and how students can keep on top of the latest developments and trends.

Asked how optimistic they were about the future of business. Udochuku Richson (AMBA’s MBA Student of the Year 2020) said the coronavirus pandemic had already illustrated how quickly businesses can adapt: “We’ve already seen entire industries scrambling but new opportunities have also unfolded. We’re all here on Zoom; nobody knew Zoom a year ago.

“Everything digital will play an even bigger role. We are heading into the age of artificial intelligence; we’re working on quantum computers. Keep an eye on these trends. It’s important you have an overview of what’s going on, be aware of it and to position yourself well.”

Stephanie Mullins (Associate Director at BlueSky Education) was similarly optimistic: “History shows once there's a downturn, there is a business boom.

“I think many businesses have learned a lot in the past year about big topics like sustainability and equality. I think we're going to see more of these developments.”

Ritika Israni (Business Development Manager at Ocean Petro Gulf DMCC) spoke on behalf of any budding entrepreneurs planning to set up their own business rather than seek employment after their studies.

She said: “If you feel there’s a certain problem area or a trend in the market that you could capitalize on, make sure you make the most of that opportunity while you’re at school.” She mentioned SetSquare which enables students to prototype a business idea, take it to the next level, or pitch it to venture capitalists who would come to campus.

She said: “You only get these opportunities while you're at university. I know it can get really overwhelming with coursework, exams, a thesis and many other engagements and expectations, but this time is very limited.

“What you make of it while you're there is really up to you. Nobody's going to come and spoon-feed you like they did in your undergraduate course. Once you become an alumnus, it's not going to be the same, you're not going to be on a campus and have the chance of walking into the director of studies office who has 20 years of experience in a field that you plan to have your career in."

The shift to online learning and connecting with people remotely shouldn’t put entrepreneurs off either. She added: “A lot of connections I established were through LinkedIn. I reached out to random alumni and many of them were willing to help out and give back.

“Don't underestimate the power of social networking because a small message on LinkedIn could emerge into your next job. Get out there, use your extra time to reach out to people, there's nothing to lose, you're only going to learn.”