Why November Is the Perfect Time to Plan Your 2026 Career Move

October 31, 2025

As the year winds down, November becomes a powerful month of reflection and preparation. It’s when professionals pause to review their achievements, assess their goals, and envision what’s next. Across Asia, industries are evolving faster than ever — with digital transformation, sustainability, and cross-border collaboration reshaping what it means to lead. For many mid-career professionals, staying relevant means more than performing well today — it’s about preparing for the opportunities of tomorrow.

That’s why November, often seen as a time for winding down, can actually be the most strategic month to plan your next big career step — especially if you’re considering an Executive MBA or postgraduate qualification in 2026.

Reflect, Refocus, and Realign Your Career Goals

By November, you’ve likely wrapped up major projects, reviewed performance goals, and started thinking about what you want to achieve next year. This makes it an ideal time to ask:

Where do I want my career to be in 10 months?
What skills or qualifications will help me get there?
How can I prepare now to lead with greater impact in 2026?

Taking the time to answer these questions can help you make strategic career moves rather than reactive ones.

Perhaps you’ve reached a plateau in your current role or noticed your industry shifting toward automation and AI. Taking stock of your strengths and aligning them with emerging trends — such as sustainability, data-driven decision-making, or people leadership — can give you clarity and direction. Many professionals use this period to update their résumés, reconnect with mentors, or take short online courses that sharpen their focus before committing to larger goals.

💡 Tip: Schedule a “career reflection day” before the year ends. Review your 2025 milestones, gather feedback from your manager, and note three areas you’d like to grow in 2026.

Get Ahead of the Application Curve

If further education — such as an Executive MBA, specialised master’s programme, or postgraduate diploma — is part of your 2026 growth plan, November is the month to act.

Most business schools, including Aventis Graduate School, begin accepting applications for early 2026 intakes now. Applying before the new year means:

More time to prepare your application thoughtfully
Early access to scholarships or study grants
A smoother, stress-free application process before the January rush

Early applicants also tend to stand out. Their essays and interviews often reflect genuine intention rather than last-minute effort. Business schools with rolling admissions often prioritise well-prepared, early submissions. You can use November and December to research programmes, attend virtual info sessions, and speak with alumni to find one that aligns with your goals.

For instance, if you’re eyeing an Executive MBA in 2026, now is the time to prepare for admissions tests, gather recommendation letters, and craft your personal statement — all before the holiday season begins. By January, you’ll already be several steps ahead of other applicants.

Invest in Yourself Before the Year Ends

November is also bonus and budgeting season for many professionals — a time when career investments can be strategically planned. Allocating resources now for an Executive MBA or a specialised master’s programme can yield measurable returns in 2026 and beyond.

Studies consistently show that professionals with postgraduate qualifications enjoy higher earning potential and faster career progression. But beyond financial rewards, the true value lies in transformation — gaining confidence, global perspectives, and strategic thinking skills that redefine how you lead.

The Aventis Executive MBA, in partnership with the University of Chichester, for instance, offers flexible part-time learning and 100% live via Zoom and Zoom recording, allowing you to balance career, life, and learning seamlessly. In just 10 months, you’ll develop leadership, innovation, and strategic management skills that accelerate your professional growth while expanding your network of like-minded leaders across industries.

Consider this: while others wait for the “right time,” forward-thinking professionals use the end of the year to plant the seeds for future success.

Backed by a Legacy of Academic Excellence

Founded in 1839, the University of Chichester is ranked among the Top 30 UK universities (Guardian University Guide 2026) and was named University of the Year for Teaching Excellence (Daily Mail University Guide 2026).

“By combining Aventis’ industry-focused learning with Chichester’s academic excellence, we deliver programmes that are rigorous, relevant, and globally impactful,” said Professor Rob Warwick, Professor of Management and Organisational Learning, University of Chichester.

This partnership merges Chichester’s 185-year heritage with Aventis’ practical, career-centric approach to executive education in Singapore.

A Season for Growth and New Beginnings

November may symbolise the end of the calendar year, but for forward-thinking professionals, it’s the start of something new. As others slow down, you have the opportunity to pause, plan, and position yourself for success in 2026.

Take this month to reflect deeply, explore your options, and invest in your personal and professional development. Because when the new year arrives, you won’t just be setting resolutions — you’ll already be executing your next big move.

November isn’t just the end of a chapter — it’s the perfect beginning of your next professional breakthrough

Start planning your 2026 with Aventis

Consider a 10-month, part-time master’s programme at Aventis — empowering you to upskill and advance your career without taking a break from work.

What are the benefits of pursuing a part-time Executive MBA?

One of the biggest benefits of pursuing a part-time Executive MBA is having the flexibility to continue working. Most students at Aventis are working professionals, and our part-time Executive MBA in Singapore allow them to progress in their careers without sacrificing their studies. Students can also study at their own pace and build a professional network simultaneously.

Does a Part-time Executive MBA help in career and salary ?

Earning an Executive MBA (EMBA) can significantly boost your earning potential. According to the 2024 Executive MBA Council (EMBAC) survey, EMBA graduates saw a 19.9% increase in total compensation, rising from $203,248 to $243,770 on average. In comparison, the 2024 GMAC survey reports a median starting salary of $120,000 for traditional MBA graduates. While both degrees offer substantial salary growth, the EMBA generally delivers higher starting compensation and greater increases, reflecting its focus on experienced professionals aiming for senior leadership.

Why should I pursue a part-time Executive MBA in Singapore with Aventis-Chichester?

Pursuing a part-time Executive MBA with University of Chichester is more than an academic journey—it’s a career accelerator. Ranked Top 30 UK Universities by Guardian University Guide 2026 and globally recognised, University of Chichester’s Executive MBA equips you with advanced business expertise, practical skills, and a powerful network of peers and industry leaders, preparing you to take on senior leadership roles and succeed in the global business arena.

In what ways are Executive MBAs different from standard Master's programmes?

An MBA and an Executive MBA (EMBA) both build business and leadership skills but serve professionals at different stages. An MBA suits early to mid-career individuals seeking management roles or career shifts. In contrast, the EMBA is designed for experienced managers and executives, focusing on advanced leadership and strategy that can be applied immediately. It allows students to study while working. More importantly, it provides access to senior-level networks and industry leaders, creating opportunities beyond the classroom. While both are valuable, the EMBA stands out for its flexibility, executive peer learning, and ability to accelerate careers into top management, board, or entrepreneurial roles without pausing one’s career.

Which is the best Executive MBA programme in Singapore?

There is no single “best” Executive MBA program, as the ideal choice depends on your career goals, experience, and preferred learning format. Each program offers unique strengths and benefits. While Singapore offer some reputable Executive MBA programs, including those from the National University of Singapore and Singapore Management University, there are relatively few Executive MBA options in the market, making the EMBA from University of Chichester a rare and valuable opportunity for senior professionals seeking advanced business education.

What are the factors to consider when applying for a Executive MBA?

When choosing the right Executive MBA program, it’s important to consider several factors. Look for programs offered by universities with strong reputations, global recognition, experienced faculty, and solid industry connections. Ensure the curriculum and assessment methods align with your career goals, whether fully coursework-based or including examinations. Programs that provide international business exposure, diverse industry connections, and networking opportunities are particularly valuable for busy professionals. EMBA programs are a significant investment, so evaluate tuition fees, and available financial support, including scholarships and grants. Thorough research, including attending information sessions will help you make an informed decision on the Executive MBA program that best fits your goals.

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