Oct 3 2023
007: Diverse MBA Applicants: Highlighting Work History & Tips for Non-Traditional Profiles
n this podcast episode, we're diving into the nitty-gritty of work history and how it plays a role in MBA applications. So lets tackle some common questions. One biggie is, "How much work history is just right, and when does it cross into 'too much' territory?"
For starters, most folks aiming for top-tier business schools usually have about five years of full-time, progressive work experience under their belts. And hey, let's be clear, internships during your undergrad days don't count in this game. Full-time means just that, full-time commitment. Now, if you had a bunch of part-time gigs going on while you were trying to launch your own business, that's okay, as long as you can honestly say you were putting in full-time effort. But if you're doubting whether your work experience is legit, well, that's a red flag right there.
It's not all about being paid either. If you were an entrepreneur and you racked up debt building your business, that still counts. Or if you spent three years overseas with the Peace Corps, that's definitely work experience. But, you know, offering occasional guided tours of the Grand Canyon while doing who knows what in the desert probably doesn't cut it.
Now, here's the thing: your work should showcase some desirable skills. Building a business or helping the less fortunate through medical work? Fantastic! On the flip side, if you've got just one year of full-time work but spent four years as an undergrad TA, that usually doesn't count.
Now, about the "too little experience" question. While there's no strict limit set by colleges, if you've got less than two years of experience when you hit that submit button, you might want to beef it up a bit.
As for "too much" experience, there's no magic number here. Having a decade of experience puts you in the nontraditional category. But don't just assume you're an executive MBA fit because you've got those ten years. Executive MBAs are usually for folks with seven or more years of experience and fancy titles to match. So, owning a podcast doesn't quite cut it!
Okay, now, let's chat about making your work history shine on your resume. Keep it to one page, maybe two max, and focus on highlighting your leadership and growth opportunities. If you've been with the same company for five years and scored a few promotions, consider listing those positions separately, but don't go overboard.
Here's the deal: your work history doesn't need to be directly related to your MBA goals, but it should somehow tie in. Maybe you just hate your current gig and want a change – that's a valid reason too.
Nontraditional applicants, listen up! You can make your application stand out. If you're coming from a medical, liberal arts, or even a poetic background, you've got unique perspectives to offer. For example, nurses have insider knowledge of the healthcare money game, which can be invaluable for designing new solutions. And poets? Well, they've got the gift of compelling communication. Use it!
Military folks, demilitarize your resumes! Highlight your achievements and don't downplay them. You're not applying as a unit; it's all about you.
So there you have it, folks. Work history is crucial, whether you're following the traditional path or blazing your own trail. Make it work for you and your MBA aspirations!
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
