How To Fail The MBA Admissions Process
The other day, a potential client asked a great question: “What is the most common reason people fail in the MBA application process?”
The truth is, very few of our clients fail because we make sure they don’t. But people struggle the most when they follow advice and rumors that don’t fit their situation.
For example, a client last year attended over 20 information and networking sessions for just one school because they thought doing so would give them an advantage with admissions. There’s nothing wrong with attending a few information sessions, however, this client’s test scores and essays were still raw and they ended up wasting many hours that should have gone toward improving these critical application components. After all, no one cares how many sessions you attend or alumni you know if your test scores or essays are sub-par. Thankfully, this client listened to me and re-focused their efforts on work that was guaranteed to make a significant difference. They ended up with a full scholarship to an M7.
Key principle: don’t waste time on optional activities when the required work still needs significant attention.
As another example, a few years ago, a client put himself in a bind before I started working with him. He really wanted School X and happened to meet a former board member of that school. My client had never worked with this person. They only chatted once, but they got along well, and my client secured the VIP’s agreement to write a letter of recommendation. However, as they had no real relationship or shared working history, the letter was vapid. Despite my advice, my client did not want to upset the VIP and proceeded to use him as a recommender. Unfortunately, he was dinged by his dream school, but we switched recommenders for his other schools, where he was indeed successful.
Key principle: The best recommenders are the bosses and former bosses who know you well and can provide to adcoms detailed examples of your strengths and achievements. Their title or MBA status is a secondary consideration.
Most people find the MBA admissions process is much more difficult than they expect. But you can avoid dangerous, time-wasting traps and enjoy the journey much more if you don’t chase every rumor and “must follow” strategy that you encounter. Instead, try to judge your own situation objectively and follow key principles to determine the most effective and efficient actions for you. If you would like to know more of these key principles, I would be happy to speak with you in a free trial consultation.