How To Conquer The Business School Interview

by Stacy Blackman Consulting, Oct 27, 2011

Business School candidates are often asked, What would your closest peers identify as your largest strength? Typically, most candidates offer a quick response of the many good things they believe their peers think about them. What is most surprising is that most individuals never ask for feedback from others about their answers. Consider how much stronger your answer would be if you said: I know what they would say the following because when I began to pursue business school, I spoke with my manager and my peers and I specifically asked them.

We understand that sitting down and asking the individuals you know best may be difficult. In fact, it might be easier to ask them first about ways you made an impact.

Normally, it is easier for people to remember specific examples than it is for them to rattle off a list of characteristics. Additionally, the conversations you have will be beneficial to the future essays you will need to write for your business school applications.

Here are some questions you can ask your manager and peers to maximize the responses you receive:

1. How has my working made a positive impact for the company?
2. As compared to my colleagues, what characteristics make me stand out?
3. What adjectives would you use to describe me to one of your peers?
4. Where have my capabilities improved the most since we have known one another?
5. If I had to answer what my strongest characteristics are on a business school application, which would you suggest I include?
6. When we worked together, what role do you prefer me to play, and why?

If your questions arent receiving the best answers, schedule a phone call with your family. Most likely they will have great things to say.

For more robust guidance on your MBA application essays, check out the Stacy Blackman Consulting Essay Guide Series school specific guides with essay tips, sample essays, information on what your target schools value and more. Visit http://www.stacyblackman.com/essay-guides/ to learn more.