Executive MBA: The Power of Group Work

A lot can be learned from your Executive MBA cohort, not least when embarking on group work. QS TopExecutive takes a look at five benefits of working with your EMBA peers.

Observation

Noticing how others behave while working on a project can be a real eye-opener. With the years of experience found amongst an EMBA cohort there will be a number of different management styles on display and group work provides an opportunity to see them in action. How is the group structured? What works in terms of making everyone feel their contributions are valued? What approaches rile others? While participation is key to group work make the most of this experience while you can.

Experimentation

Not only will your fellow group members have different management styles, they’ll each have a work ethic of their own. Some may be similar to yours; others may not. Everyone’s individual approach to the task will likely be formed by their own strengths and weaknesses, but once again, it’s an environment from which you can learn. Take this opportunity to try a different way of working. If one or two members of your group have creative flair, their energies and input may be harnessed much more effectively in visual rather than textual form.  Be flexible in your approach, particularly at the early stages of developing the project.

Complementary styles

Successful group work involves working alongside other members of your EMBA cohort, not in opposition. While disagreements may arise, take the constructive approach to criticism rather than undermining a fellow group member. There will no doubt be areas of the project that are more relevant to your expertise than others, but there’s also a need to recognize others are multi-talented too. If someone else shares similar expertise to your own, perhaps this is the moment to step back and learn from them.

Constructive feedback

Many EMBA alumni speak of the wealth of expert information they receive in the business school classroom, not just from the faculty themselves, but from their fellow EMBA students. Group work is a prime opportunity for you to tap into this wealth of knowledge and really benefit from those around you. One stage of your project is likely to be that of a review – this should encompass everyone’s offering, not just the perceived ‘weaker’ parts.

Accommodating differences

Time is of the essence on an Executive MBA program and everyone will have their own work and family commitments in addition to EMBA study. Juggling these different elements is an integral part of the program but each candidate will likely develop a strategy or routine that works best for them. This could prove to be one of the real challenges of group work. As in 'real life', people have different body clocks, attention spans, attitudes to deadlines, preferences for 'working under pressure’, or being organized and working well in advance.

Group work is an integral part of any Executive MBA program. While it may prove to be one of the more challenging aspects of your time in the business school classroom, it’s also likely to be one of the most rewarding so enjoy it while it lasts!