Thoughts on getting an MBA to solidify yourself as a strategist as well as creative?

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from what I’ve heard it’s not usually a big benefit unless you’re planning to make the jump brand-side

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It could give you some extra credibility and knowledge if you are thinking of being a CCO some day, but it is arguably overkill for a creative to get an MBA.

likesmart

Are you in PR, where everyone is a “Jack/Jill of all trades”? If not, pick a lane.

By all means, be a strategic creative. The best ones are. Just like some of the best strategists are also creative. But it shouldn’t be your goal to literally serve both roles in a traditional agency.

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Things may have changed since I’ve been there, but I saw it at the very highest levels… approved by and working directly with Richard.

I’m in the same boat and applied for MBA programs for next year. I’m hoping to move in-house and move up in leadership so it felt like it wouldn’t hurt to have. (I agree that it might be overkill to do it and stay at a traditional agency in a creative role.) I also did it to AI-proof myself a bit, even if that’s just wishful thinking.

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Stop trying to be both . Focus and accept the support from the other you will be better for it.

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Don't bother. I have mine and it's worth diddly squat on the account side. Unless you're working in finance, operations, or corporate development for the holding company don't bother.

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I would love to hear from someone who’s gotten one if the education itself is worth it. I’ve always heard it’s more about the network than anything else.

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When I got my MBA in 2023 it helped me get more leadership roles and understand the business side of creative. Also opens doors to more opportunities allowing me to work with startups and venture capital/ PE.

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Strategists are not creatives

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As a CCO I could actually see it being a detriment.

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Well ok!

I’d consider anyone with an MBA “a suit” and not interested in being a creative. I know I can be wrong but that’s my opinion and I know I’m not alone. It could help if you’re a creative and want to become a strategist or account.

One thing people seldom think about is how creatives always get hired by a CD, but CCOs get hired by CEOs. And CEOs are impressed by MBAs (from a top-tier school, not that MBA of Creativity from Berlin). So if you want to be a CCO, an MBA could be the difference maker. I could imagine for lower roles, an MBA could even be a hinderance, because many CCOs/ECDs/CDs are insecure and wouldn’t want to hire anyone under them with an MBA. You’d need to time your MBA properly.

I would recommend finding online courses instead that speak to you

Meh

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