In Part 1 of our Guide to MBA Admissions series, we reviewed the admissions process overview and academic profile. In Part 2 we discussed the GMAT and the role of work experience. Today we will address MBA application recommendations.
Recommendations of Relevance
Recommendations help the MBA Admissions Committee (Adcom) understand your role in the world from an independent source. Think strategically about who you choose to be your recommenders because they pay attention.
Many applicants run into trouble here because they don’t understand who should be chosen for this important task. Ideally you want a supervisor in your current role. This is easier for positions where you are expected to head off to b-school in a few years. If an immediate supervisor will not work as you don’t want to tip your hand about your plans, ask a former supervisor. Other ways to meet the recommender requirement include clients who know your work and mentors who can speak to your work experience.
Here’s what you should avoid. The Adcom will frown upon recommendations from family members. If you work in a family-run business, consult clients or suppliers to help you fulfill this requirement. Do not consider VIP recommenders unless they are familiar with your work. And resist the temptation to consult former professors unless they can speak to your career trajectory. Professors are more likely to speak to your past experience instead of your present. Remember, we need to understand who you are today.
No matter what your recommender says, do not write your recommendation. The Adcom will spot it a mile away. However, I encourage you to coach your recommender so he/she can easily recall your contributions as well as better understand your reasons for pursuing an MBA. This is an important step to ensure a consistent story.
In Part 4 of this series, we’ll discuss MBA admissions essays and how to prepare for the interview.
Geanine Thompson is CEO of MBA Goddess, an MBA admissions consulting firm for over-achieving chicks, gutsy girls and non-traditional, non-business career applicants. For more must-have MBA admissions tips, visit www.MBAGoddess.com
