The last step of the first phase, which begins with researching, applying to business schools, and getting calls from them, is a face-to-face interview with the admissions officers or head of the program of the school of your choosing. As new students often wonder what business schools look for in a candidate, why not dive into the general things to avoid in order to ace these admissions steps?
If you’ve recently received an invitation to the admission interview to your dream business school admission, then stick around because here are some tips on what to avoid and how to present yourself in the best light.
Repetition Is the Enemy
If asked during the interview why you want to study in this particular business, being prepared to react in a way that supports the application story is very important. However, it’s equally important to avoid responding as candidates are reciting their essays like a broken record. It will appear as though candidates are nervous or going by the book.
Avoid the “I’ve Got This” Attitude by Not Preparing
One of the biggest don’ts is arriving unprepared. There is nothing that disappoints an interviewer more than an applicant who hasn’t gone through the work of practicing for the interview.
You must be ready to respond to inquiries about yourself, your ambitions, and personal and professional pursuits as well as how your own values align with the business school.
Bringing to light a broad lack of awareness gives a glimpse into a candidate’s macro knowledge of the business world around them. It’s important to show interest and knowledge about global events. What might also stand out is the lack of familiarity with the institution to which you have applied.
Not Listening
Of all the requested skills, listening is probably the most crucial. Candidates must pay close attention to not just the spoken words but also the tone and body language used in conjunction with them.
Allowing the interviewer to finish the question; asking for clarification if needed, and trying to ascertain the purpose of the inquiry before responding.
This often leads to giving hasty responses. In some ways, this relates to what’s mentioned above. Taking time while responding to a question, even if assuming that the given answer will be excellent. It gives candidates more time to think and organize their responses, and it also makes it less likely that they will sound too prepared.
Not Controlling Emotions
If candidates don’t know the answer to a question, they shouldn’t make any outward signs of annoyance. They should understand that it is not a crime to not know the answer to a question. Feeling guilty and dwelling will just make it harder for them to do well on succeeding questions.
What About International Candidates?
Being an international student comes with additional stress, and isn’t sometimes just a result of a communication gap but rather a cultural expectation. This is where the business school comes in to prepare them for milestones in which they have to communicate their goals and find a job in the host country.
I Pitch & Meet
A meeting between EMLV business partners and students from international programs. The concept? A pitch session during which recruiters from some of the school partners assess the skills of international students, from the MSc and MBA programs. The goal is not only to help them find internships but also to practice their public speaking and boost their networking.
Are you ready to nail your business school admissions interview?