Hi Megha,
This is Jayashree Sairam. I have been thru' all the replies to your query and would like to add my 2 bits.
I was in the IT field for about 15 years and now I have set up my own recruiting firm. It was a decision I took after a lot of deliberations and I am happy with it.
SO, like the others have said - it is something for you to decide as you know your situation best.
As a recruiter I have seen profiles where individuals have switched careers - moving from one field to a vastly different ( and seemingly unconnected ) one. So follow your heart if you are set on the change.
But you must be prepared for:
1. Your previous work experience not being considered by employers. Employers look for 'relevant' experience
2. Taking a pay cut ( I earn much lesser now than I did when I was in the IT field , and this I am okay with)
3. You may start work with people younger than you and may even report to someone younger that you, as you are starting as a fresher. Be mentally prepared for this. Of course, this can happen even without a career change sometimes.
4. If you currently enjoy being in IT ( the highs of being part of a team working on cutting-edge technologies, the joy of meeting a deadline, rectifying a bug in the nick of time etc ) know that the situations will be different. There will be highs and lows, camaraderie, deadlines etc. but they will be different one. The profiles of your co-workers, even the jokes cracked to relieve stress will all be different.
While most people have suggested becoming an IT recruiter ( and this is a good suggestion; I am proof of it ) you can also consider working in IT specialising on HR modules of ERPs as you would have gained functional knowledge about HR in your MBA and can understand both IT and HR viewpoints, getting into Training ( for different technologies ) - Training many a times is part of HR function and you can maybe find your niche here .... I am sure there are many more
Feel free to contact me on 09818838490 anytime between 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. IST
my email ID is 'thehelpinghand at outlook dot com'
My skype ID is 'jayashree dot sairam'
Believe in yourself and do what you feel is right for the present. And be ready to work hard in you new venture.
I will end with my favourite quote by Maya Angelou -
Nothing will work, unless you do.
Regards,
Jayashree Sairam