Applying this Fall

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Applying this Fall

by jsche229 » Sat Apr 27, 2013 2:05 pm
So I have an odd question to ask as I am applying this fall. I currently am in a great job with a company where I am able to recieve a reccomendation for business school. I have been approached about switching companies and taking a large promotion and pay bump. There are the obvious benefits of this but how would this look in terms of an adcom committee.

I would not be able to recieve a reccomendation letter from my new employer as I just started and also I wouldn't be able to recieve one from my current boss as he would not be happy with the switch. I would however be able to secure ones from other signifigant people who are with my current emplyoer. What should I do? Thanks for your time!
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by CriticalSquareMBA » Sun Apr 28, 2013 8:00 am
Hi jsche229,

Congratulations on the job offer! In my opinion, unless your current boss who would provide the recommendation is bringing significant power to the table (e.g. title, alumni of a top program, etc.), the switch would serve you very well. Something to consider is if the other people you could get recommendations from are similar in caliber to your boss.

Admissions committees view a positive move in your career very well. Firstly, most ask for your incoming salary as well as your title. You would have to communicate the switch into your story in a positive way (e.g. this promotion was the right step for my career and, more importantly, will make me a stronger MBA student because...) but that should definitely be possible.

To have a recommendation hold you back from a promotion and a salary raise would not, in my opinion, be the right option. Your candidacy is a holistic picture into you and a recommendation is important but just one part of it.

I hope that helps and if you have any other questions, just let me know. I'd be happy to help!

Bhavik
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by jsche229 » Sun Apr 28, 2013 9:07 am
Bhavik-

Thank you so much for the prompt reply. Your advice is definitely sound and makes a lot of sense. I am currently in hotel operations and manage a large department, $3 million in revenue a year, at the one of the largest hotels in the country. I have been asked to move over to another hotel, top 5 largest in the country outside Vegas, and manage multiple departments. I could definitely secure a recommendation from someone who has a similar title as my current boss so that shouldn't be an issue.

My reason for getting an MBA is that I want to move into the real estate side of the business move into development. Now knowing those additional pieces of information would you still recommend the move?

Again, that you so very much for your time as it is greatly appreciated.

John

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by CriticalSquareMBA » Sun Apr 28, 2013 9:20 am
Hey there,

Absolutely! You have a great position now and the promotion seems like quite the move forward. Not only does it demonstrate responsibility beyond your years and speaks to your leadership/management capabilities, but it also strengthens your story! By gaining the experience in operations and learning best practices from an industry leader, it helps you develop the understanding you would need on the real estate side in order to put forward successful ideas. Gaining experience in the front end of the value chain would be invaluable to you professionally and to your story as you seek to move into real estate.

I don't think you'll have any issues with the recommendations so I think as long as it makes for you personally, it's a great professional move.

I'm happy to help - if you have any other questions, don't hesitate!

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by MBAAdmissionsCoach » Wed May 01, 2013 8:17 am
Definitely go for the new position! It's a great opportunity for professional growth, and puts you in a better position when you are seeking employment post-MBA.

Real estate plays a huge role in the hospitality industry. As you enter into the new position, you may see if you pick up some opportunities related to real estate with the new organization (for the exposure, experience, and for your resume!).

Admissions committees frequently hear from candidates with situations like yours. It's not absolutely essential to have a recommendation from a current employer. If you explain appropriately in your application, it will be clear why you've selected your recommenders.

Best of luck to you!

Wendy
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