In last month’s post, I provided ten critical tips for MBA candidates during the process of preparing their application materials. This month, I am offering some equally critical tips, that I call the ten do’s and don’ts of the application process. As with last month’s tips, some prospective MBA students might read them, and think: “Dr. Don, these are no-brainers – don’t you have something more substantial?” The answer to that question is yes and yes – these tips are no-brainers, and there is much more substantial information in my book. However, truth be told, I could write a collection of books regarding the number of instances in which applicants violated all of these tips – thousands of times over, year after year. That is why I start with what I like to call the basics. Because if you miss these, it usually doesn’t matter what else is in your application(s). As they say, “First impressions are lasting impressions.” So, let’s begin:
Obviously, you need to allow adequate time to prepare your applications. If you do not follow directions, you invite questions about your ability to complete program requirements once enrolled.
Just one tip here (but please keep it in mind): An outstanding second-round application is far better than an average first-round application.
At a minimum, utilize the virtual campus tour feature on every b-school’s website… On more occasions than I care to remember, MBA students came to my office complaining about the location and/or facilities at Chicago Booth. This was always surprising to me. Upon questioning them further, it often became apparent that they had never taken time to learn about our location/facilities.
It is imperative that you evaluate the manner with which you are treated as an inquirer and applicant. Don’t expect that to change, for better or worse, once you have enrolled. And don’t forget that every and any contact you have is also being evaluated by the admissions committee.
There is a delicate balance here. If you have questions, if something goes wrong, by all means you should make the admissions committee aware of it. But your manner of being, and tone of voice (spoken or written) says a lot about how you handle challenges or problems.
You do want to put forward that you are able to communicate well, and that you believe you are a competitive applicant. However, coming across as though you are better than others, or self aggrandizing, will most likely result in your being placed on the waiting list at best.
Do not contact the admissions office incessantly. If you have a valid question, ask. But beyond that, behave with an appropriate level of courtesy and professionalism.
While admissions professionals are not psychics, we all have a tendency to recognize when someone is not on the level. When that happens to you, what is your reaction? You most likely develop an immediate distrust of the individual. The same thing takes place with the admissions staff when they detect that an applicant is not being authentic.
Your life and career is going to go well if you practice persistence and determination. If you do not get into your top choice b-school, or to any b-school upon your first attempt, your life is not over by any stretch of the imagination. Enjoy the process, learn from what happens, and be ready to re-apply if needed. Did you know that the percentage of admission for re-applicants is much higher than for first-time applicants?
Hopefully this speaks for itself. But just in case: There is only one of you. You are talented, capable, accomplished, unique and special. We are all tempted to alter the truth, but we have a choice. You do not need to embellish or mis-represent any part of your application – not ever. Doing so compromises your integrity, and if you are found out (which is happening more and more), you will most likely be denied admission and not permitted to apply to the respective b-school ever again. Additionally, many b-schools put the word out if they discover that an applicant has been dishonest.
Dr. Don Martin is Consultant at Residence at Spring
