Hi, I am 36 yrs old and have been working in a PSU bank as a senior manager. But i feel i will not have much more growth here. I cant decide whther its better to resign and do a MBA abroad or do a MBA for working professionals and then seek another job. Could you suggest any courses which could help to get a better job with experience in retail banking sector.

Ans: Hello Ajai,

I hope you're doing well.

As a banker with 25 years of experience, you must have developed a wide range of skills and expertise that can be useful in many different fields. Here are a few potential career paths you could consider:

Financial Planning and Analysis: With your background in banking and financial management, you could explore opportunities in financial planning and analysis. Many companies require professionals who can analyze financial data, forecast budgets, and develop financial strategies. Your experience in retail banking would be particularly relevant in this field.

Consulting: Consulting firms often hire professionals with a background in banking to advise their clients on financial matters. You could use your knowledge and expertise to help businesses improve their financial performance, streamline their operations, and manage their risk.

Education and Training: Another option is to share your expertise by teaching or training others.

Entrepreneurship: You could also consider starting your own business, perhaps leveraging your banking experience to launch a new venture in the financial sector.

Ans: Though there are students in the top IIMs with 8 to 10 years work experience for the 2 year MBA course, it is recommended to try for a 1 year Executive MBA course if you have more than 5 years of work experience. You need to write the GMAT if you plan to do Executive MBA from the top IIMs, ISB, XLRI, etc.
I believe this would be good for your career growth.

Ans: Usually people who work in Banks remain in Banks and you would have better growth opportunities there. So look at option of applying to MNC Banks or other private Banks as you would have higher chance of being absorbed at a higher designation and pay.

Ans: I'm sorry to hear about the difficulties you're facing in your current role. It's crucial to prioritize your mental and physical well-being, and considering a career switch can be a step toward a healthier and more fulfilling professional life.

Reflect on your skills, interests, and what aspects of your current job you enjoy or excel at. Consider taking a career assessment test to identify potential career paths aligned with your strengths and interests.

Use your banking experience to become a financial advisor or wealth manager. This role allows you to work closely with clients to manage their finances, investments, and retirement planning. You can transition to a corporate finance role within a company, focusing on financial planning, analysis, and management. You may decide to leverage your banking experience to move into risk management or compliance roles, focusing on ensuring organizations adhere to regulations and manage risks effectively.

If you enjoy mentoring and educating others, consider teaching finance, banking, or business management at educational institutions.

If you have a business idea or passion project, consider starting your own business. This allows for more control over your work environment and schedule.

You can use your extensive experience to become a consultant in banking, finance, or business operations. Consultants often have more flexible work arrangements and can work on diverse projects.

Switching careers can be daunting but also rewarding if it leads to a healthier and more satisfying professional life. However, with your experience, it should be a fairly simple thing for you to do.

Prioritize your health, do thorough research, and make a strategic plan to achieve a successful career transition.