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Hi,

My question is regarding how laid off applicants are viewed.

I joined a financial analyst rotational program at a multinational firm after graduation in 2007. After completion of the program in July 2009, I joined a corporate strategy team working on various high-level internal consulting projects. During this period, I realized that I was ready to pursue an MBA and I planned to apply to bschools in fall 2010.

Unfortunately, due to a big firm restructuring, half my team has been laid off and I have been unemployed since late March 2010. Currently, I am actively seeking a new job.

If I do not find a job by the time I apply, or if I find a job that does not seem to fit in with my career progression (e.g. pay cut, different industry, less "glamorous" position, etc.), would this be viewed negatively by admissions committees?

Also, how do you suggest I write about this in my essays? Appreciate any constructive feedback.

Hello,

Being laid off is tough under any circumstances. However, business schools today recognize that the economy, especially the financial sector, has seen significant layoffs of talented and desirable employees. They also recognize that finding a new job while layoffs continue is challenging. You should, of course continue to look for employment.

What you should not do is take a year off to "find yourself" and "study for the GMAT." Schools will not be impressed by the fact that it has taken you a years' study full time to get a decent test score. If you find yourself accepting a pay cut or less glamorous position, consider how you can use that position to make yourself a more attractive candidate. Will the new position expose you to a new and interesting industry? Will it give you experience with a new functional area? Will it add to either the breadth or depth of your expertise?

Also, think of non-work means of enhancing your resume. I have had successful applicants use "down time" to start a not-for-profit, take relevant coursework, or contribute significantly on a volunteer basis.

In summary, while you will definitely want to explain the circumstances behind your layoff, you should also be thinking about how to use this time constructively. Think about how you can show interest, initiative and the ability to overcome obstacles by the way you tackle this challenge. Turn this negative to a positive.

Tani