THE QUALITIES BUSINESS SCHOOLS VALUE
Every year our clients ask us to shed some light on what the top MBA programs are looking for. The qualities that MBA admissions committees are looking for are fairly well-known and intuitive.
. Leadership - Evidence of accomplishing things through others, challenging the status quo, instilling a vision, facing challenges, standing up for what's right, prioritizing the needs of the organization above personal needs, and uniting people behind a goal
. Rationale for an MBA - Demonstrates sound reasoning for returning to business school, enthusiasm for the program, and persuasive evidence of a perfect fit between the program and the candidate's values and goals
. Diversity - Elements of background, values, experience, and personal qualities that prove the candidate will add something new, exciting, and different to their community
. Self-Awareness - Takes responsibility for actions; understands how those actions impact others
. Intellectual Horsepower - A love for learning and a desire for mastery of new subjects; ability to handle the program's rigorous academic demands; quantitative abilities
. Interpersonal Abilities - The ability to advocate, persuade, and negotiate compromise; charm, charisma, and exceptional social skills
. Emotional Intelligence - Evidence of team work and team building; creating clear goals, building a sense of urgency, identifying the unique talents of team members, motivating teammates, managing a complex project, and resolving differences
. Determination - The ability to overcome setbacks and hardships; determination and courage in the face of adversity; drive; the desire to make an impact personally and professionally
. Humanitarian Values - Service to a community, selflessness, generosity
. Integrity/Ethics - A clear sense of principles and values; evidence of putting principles into action
. Career Progression - Evidence that you have distinguished yourself from your peers and increased your level of responsibility
. Ambitious Career Goals - Clear career goals and a convincing, achievable action plan for achieving career objectives
. Global Point of View - Awareness of the global nature of business; evidence of adapting to new cultures and working effectively with a diverse group of people