Congratulations, you got the interview! Now you have the opportunity to tell more of your story to the admissions committee as part of the interview process. Here are six tips to help you convert your interview into a seat at your dream MBA program!
1. Know your story.
Practice the basics. Although a few interviews require some unique preparation, such as Wharton’s Team Based Discussion, most MBA programs follow a behavioral interview process and ask similar questions. It is highly likely that you will be asked the following questions: Can you walk me through your resume? Why do you want an MBA? Why us? How can you contribute to our MBA program? Practice answering these questions in cohesive, two- to three-minute responses. Ask someone you trust to listen to your responses and provide tips on how to tighten up your answers.
2. Prepare for THIS school.
Everyone wants to be loved. Business schools are no exception. Share specific reasons related to how this MBA program, these professors, and these clubs will help you reach your goals. If you speak in generalities, your interviewer may assume that you don’t really want to be at their school since you did not take the time to do your research. After interviewing thousands of MBA applicants over the years, I can tell when someone has done their homework about an MBA program and when they are just winging it. Your interviewer will be able to notice this very easily as well. No school wants to waste an admit on someone who does not want to attend.
3. Never let them see you sweat.
For the 20% of questions that you can’t predict (What is the best book you have ever read? How do you handle surprises?), remember that how you respond is just as important as what you say. Don’t panic if you can’t think of an answer to an interview question. Instead, ask for a moment to think, or ask the interviewer to restate the question to give yourself more time to formulate a response. Maintain your confidence at all times. One of the biggest mistakes I see people make when they don’t have a great answer is that they just keep talking. This “throw all the spaghetti at the wall” approach to see what sticks is not recommended. If you don’t have a great answer, just give your best answer succinctly and let the interviewer move on to another aspect of the interview.
4. Look the part.
A big part of being successful in an MBA interview is demonstrating professional presence. Your interviewer wants to be confident that you will be successful in the job search in two years. Wear something professional that gives you confidence. Don’t overlook the details: polish your shoes, trim your nails, iron your clothes. All these little things add to your overall professional presence. This advice applies to both in-person and virtual interviews. I have seen wrinkled clothing through a Zoom screen, and it does not make a great first impression. Take the time to look professional and polished for every interview.
5. Pay attention to cues from your interviewer.
During your interview, take note of subtle cues from your interviewer. If you are speaking for more than three minutes, notice if your interviewer is getting bored or distracted. Give your interviewer the option to ask a new question, or confirm that they would like you to proceed and provide more details. Make sure your interviewer seems engaged and interested in your replies as you answer. One of the worst interview mistakes I’ve seen candidates make is to just keep talking… and talking… and talking… and not let the interviewer have control of the interview cadence.
6. Smile.
The last piece of advice is the simplest: the most important thing you can wear is a smile! This is not an appointment for a root canal; it is an opportunity to express who you are and move closer to your short- and long-term goals. Share your enthusiasm about this next chapter of your life. Enjoy the ride!
For more guidance on preparing for admissions interviews or planning your MBA journey, sign up for a free 30-minute consultation with a Stratus admissions expert today!