The difference between the acceptance and rejection of your application could very well depend on how you fare at the interview. Despite the excellent credentials if you are not able to market yourself effectively, you could be looking at rejection.
Thus selling yourself plays the primary role in your success and this fact has to be accepted and worked upon.
Understand your target market:
Like any marketing professional would do while undertaking a project, understand your target market. Your B-school application process should always start with a thorough research about the B-schools, online and offline (if possible). Interaction with the current students and alumni will give you some deep insights about the school.
This would help you to articulate your reasons for application and convince the panel about the same. The panel will definitely be impressed if you cite certain experiences acquired during your research process.
Positioning is the key:
Every school focuses on training their students and thus transforming their career. However, these schools have certain needs of their own. After all, they have a business to run. They would be pleased to receive donations and other non-monetary help from their alumni.
For example, a B-school may introduce a new elective and would want applicants for the same. A smart applicant would show some interest in the new program introduced and thus may increase his/her chances of getting through.
Differentiate yourself:
With thousands of applications every year, candidates may find it very tough to differentiate themselves from others. The essay portion of the application is a crucial aspect which if accompanied with excellent examples about the personal experiences will impress the panel.
Don't be afraid of failure:
Failure is often looked down at in our society. When it comes to highlighting your strengths, candidates have no problem at all. But when asked about their failure, candidates tend to be uncomfortable and slightly hesitant.
The key is to be honest and talk about your failures openly. Your recovery from this failure and learning from it is what the panel is more interested in.
Although negotiating your acceptance into a top MBA program seems daunting, by showcasing your individuality, you can do so with success. Research each institution and understand how your personal strengths and differences can benefit the programs of your choice.
Take advantage of the application's essay portion to illustrate your unique qualities, and don't shy away from discussing your weaknesses, as well as what you've learned from moments of failure. Effective marketing can take your application from good to great—and make all the difference in this highly competitive process.
0 comments:
Post a Comment