Being successful in any endeavor is normally based on the amount of preparation that is made. People who want to hit the target and win every time will not leave anything to chance. Therefore, for those preparing for their MBA in marketing graduate school interviews, it may be best to consider this strategy if they want to ensure a rewarding interview.
Eliminating the Competition
As a general rule of thumb, many of the top MBA schools in the country will require a MBA interview in their admission process. The goals and objectives are to weed out large volumes of applicants and create a pool that represents the cream of the crop. Consequently, those who make it to the interview stage can expect the competition to be quite stiff. Now, the aforementioned statement is not meant for discouragement or disillusionment. However, it is intended to provoke the individual do a thorough job of research and preparation prior to getting to the admission committee. Additionally, Forbes has compiled a list of interview tips that encourages individuals to use their personal skills and expertise to obtain the best results.
Research the School and the MBA program
Similar to job interviews, the applicant should always research the organization and the position they are applying for. Going in without this knowledge will normally eliminate the applicant from the start. To avoid this situation, the aspiring graduate school applicant should know all about the schools initial start including its founder, sports activities, rankings, etc. This information will also help to solidify why the person wants to go to this school (normally, a staple question asked in interviews). Another key area to become knowledgeable about is the MBA program itself. This is vital information because the admittance committee will be looking for candidates that best fit into their program requirements and have the greatest potential for completing it successfully with top grades.
Be Prepared to Ask the Committee Questions
The applicant should also position their self as the best candidate for the seat by making him or herself look good. The candidate should ask questions of the committee as well. This will give the candidate a chance to find out more about the program being offered. It also shows the committee that they are serious about their future career. The questions, however, should not be general or superficial but direct and to the point. In fact, questions that seek for additional opportunities in these programs are normally excellent choices (i.e. “Are there any available fellowships, assistantships, and adjunct positions?”). These types of questions will signify to the committee that the person is not only considering the graduate program itself but other opportunities that they are preparing to take advantage of.
Getting into one of the top MBA programs in the country is one of the best ways to prepare to be a strong business leader in any organization. Admittance into the best MBA programs normally requires completing a successful interview prior to acceptance. Candidates who are serious about being accepted will do a thorough job of researching the school, their MBA program specifications and documenting questions that they will ask the committee.
Additional Reading: What Educational and Work Experience is Necessary to Get Accepted into an MBA in Marketing Program?
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