Is this a good way to approach "Managerial Experience&q

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One of the questions for the essay of the school I will be applying to is "describe your managerial experience or potential". Based on my experience I was planning on answering it this way:

About me: I am 25 and will have about 3 years of work experience post-grad. (I took a one year paralegal diploma program after my undergrad). I will have a little over a year working for a top 5 corporate law firm and about 2 years with a top 3 investment bank. For both positions I have worked on a wide range of corporate transactions at the highest levels. I have played integral roles in some of the world's largest Mergers & Acquisitions deals while at the law firm and currently deal with a booming (emerging markets) area of the investment bank.

Unfortunately, these positions are junior in nature, so I haven't had traditional "managerial" experience. However, I thought this would be a good way to answer the question:

1. I have had the opportunity to work with some of the top leaders in the corporate sector on a very close and long-term basis. This has allowed me to develop and see in action many skills that a leader/manager should have.

2. The type of work I do requires me to work on many transactions at once, "managing" each one simultaneously, while not making any mistakes. A small mistake could cost the bank millions of dollars. I think having to do this on a regular basis is comparable to managing a team.

3. So, overall I think that with the work experience I have and the people I've worked with, coupled with the knowledge I'll receive from the MBA program will allow me to comfortably step into a managerial position upon graduation.

Does this make sense? Does it answer the question appropriately based on my background? I'm trying to show that while I don't necessarily have traditional managerial experience, I have a great deal of the skills already and unlimited potential.

Sorry for the long post, but one other quick question. On the essay form the questions are separated into three separate ones. Should I treat each one individually or write one essay? I'm sure I can ask the school, but any input would be appreciated.
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by Lisa Anderson » Mon May 05, 2008 5:33 am
Dear dubc1982,

I think you are on the right track with your answer regarding your managerial potential. Perhaps you have some experience managing a school project or community work you could also highlight? Any example demonstrating your success in managing a team and/or project is helpful.

As I have not seen the school's application, I am not sure if there are three separate questions or if you are being asked to address three questions in one essay. My best guess is these are three separate essay questions, especially if the topics are unrelated. If you are not sure, then I would suggest contacting the school for clarification as you do not want to make a poor impression by assuming which it is.

Good luck,
Lisa
Lisa Anderson
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Stacy Blackman Consulting

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