Business qualifications

[fantheflames]

I see university degrees (good ones) as training in structured thought. It does not matter too much what the subject matter is, it is the process of structuring thought that is the main skill they give. I have noticed that often even very experienced people without a formal education struggle with structured thinking. This is not really a problem for many jobs but once you get into strategic planning, report writing, product development, and the like it can be an issue. All these "higher level" business functions require structure of thought, otherwise, it's just a mess.

Now, the good news is that anyone can learn and practice structured thinking and you certainly don't need a degree to do this. And it is also the case that many micky mouse degrees do not teach that basic skill either, so a degree is no guarantee that the person will have the ability to structure their thought well.

Skills and experience are definitely the most important thing but combine that with an ability to think in a structured way and you have someone who can really do great things. Again, to be absolutely clear, I am not suggesting for one second that only people with degree's can think in a structured way. But a good academic degree is some evidence of this skill.

I completely agree! I have also found that those that have had formal qualifications or training, or a background in project management, to be more strategic and structured. For those that struggle with it, and have the skills and experience I need, I tend to help them in processes that promote that way of thinking and doing as that's extremely important in business. So I think it can be taught in the workplace, just takes a little time and effort. I'm more than happy too.

 

[IanSuth]

Skills and experience are definitely the most important thing but combine that with an ability to think in a structured way and you have someone who can really do great things. Again, to be absolutely clear, I am not suggesting for one second that only people with degree's can think in a structured way. But a good academic degree is some evidence of this skill.

It was

A lot of todays degrees as really watch a video and answer the questions learning.

That is why Deloitte (and other practices) actually look for Russell group 1st class science grads as the ones most likely to be able to make it through the workload/info overload of an accountancy training contract

 

[Ivanzyt]

It was

A lot of todays degrees as really watch a video and answer the questions learning.

That is why Deloitte (and other practices) actually look for Russell group 1st class science grads as the ones most likely to be able to make it through the workload/info overload of an accountancy training contract

Indeed. As a Russel group science grad this makes me happy...............not first class though had a bit to much fun for that and ended up with a drinkers degree grade (2-2)

 

[Paul Kelly ICHYB]

drinkers degree grade (2-2)

Ahhh, a Desmond!

 

[Banksbroo]

Re. "qualification bashing" Vs "years of hands-on experience" I do often think of the situation of someone who worked very hard at a "micky mouse degree at a rubbish institution" but got a lot from it through their own hard work and effort to learn. Then comparing them to someone who has years of experience - years spent years making a mess of things, and never learning from mistakes. I don't have a degree or any formal quantifications, and I do run a successful business, but I certainly would had benefited from a more structured education and formal qualifications.

 

[Tomwirral]

What is everyone's thoughts on business qualifications like business studies degrees or MBA's?

While they are not necessary for success in business my personal view is that they are a useful complement to practical experience. I would look more favorably on someone with experience and relevant domain expertise if they had an MBA than if they didn't, for example.

Of course, if it were a blank choice between academic qualifications or hands-on experience then experience wins every time, obviously.

My thoughts are the same. I know many people that have all kinds of letters after their name but have not got a clue about life. Go with your gut instinct, that always wins. Am not saying that getting a degree is not good, it’s brilliant but in the context of your business, you need to ask yourself, if that person would help you, degree or not. I would always look at the individual as a whole. Bring back more apprenticeships I say!

 

[japancool]

Having a degree and "knowing about life" are not mutually exclusive.