4 Ways to Make Your MBA Application Stand Out
There are two broad categories of MBA applicants: those who naturally fit the MBA stereotype, and those who naturally stand out. No matter what group you fall into, the challenge is to present yourself as a hybrid of both. No school wants to admit a clone, nor do they want to take a person whose skills and career trajectory arent relevant to a business degree.
For the moment, lets focus on the former category: the typical consultants and the bankers out there. How can you make sure your application doesnt get lost in the shuffle?
1. Add a Dimension
Were not talking about a parallel universe, but rather about adding another layer of depth to your application. This means talking about your life outside of work. Be strategic here. The admissions committee wants to hear about things that contribute to your profile in a meaningful wayno need to mention your weekly pedicures or dog therapy sessions. Remember that your MBA resume should be distinct from your job application resume. Focus on your leadership experience, membership in relevant organizations, and involvement in your community. At a basic level, b-schools want to know what kind of things drive you, not what kind of things you drive.
2. Be a Professional Outside of the Office
If you have initiative and a good idea, its easy to find ways to set yourself apart. And remember: the Internet is your friend. Think about starting a blog on something you are passionate about, or developing a small start-up website. You can even volunteer your services to a local nonprofit. These examples will lend a certain vibrancy to that black-and-white one-sheeter. Professional experience doesnt have to come from the workplace; this section of your resume can and should also include selections from these sources.
3. Act Like a Leader
To be a good administrator, you need to be a good leader. Thats sort of what business school is all about. Many applicants make the mistake of listing off their achievements without having any real focus. Its good to remind yourself that you are pursuing a degree in business administration. As many examples as you can give of your leadership skill and potential, the better. Its going to be assumed that you are a master Powerpoint-er and financial decision modeler. Emphasize experiences youve had in training new employees, heading up recruitment, and leading projects.
4. Listen to Socrates: Know Thyself
At the end of the day, remember that your resume is your story. You have only one page to exhibit your multidimensional self. Dont simply write what you think admissions officers want to see; make sure you also take the time to think about your real goals, desires, needs and motivations. Maybe you wont state them explicitly, but if youve given enough time to considering them, your resume will be a more holistic representation of who you are. The better you know yourself, the better the admissions committee will get to know you.
This post was written by Igor Khayet, the President and Founder of My Resume Shop. Igor is a former Admissions Interviewer for the Yale School of Management and a member of the Professional Association of Resume Writers & Career Coaches. Connect with him on Facebook and Twitter.