MBA Interview …by Webcam?

July 4, 2008 | Leave a Comment

The interview is an important part of the MBA application process. For many MBA applicants, this is the first time someone from the admissions committee is going to hear your voice and see your face. This is an opportunity for the interviewer to experience your passion for an MBA in person.

For MBA applicants who are unable to visit in person, a phone interview was the next best thing. Now some MBA programs are encouraging students to interview via webcam. It may not be an in-person interview, but it does give you the opportunity to exhibit your passion in a more personal manner. If you find yourself looking ahead to a webcam interview, here are three things to remember.

  • Everything communicates. The webcam is going to show your face and everything in the background. Choose your location wisely. The simplest background would be a white wall. If you have an office or study you may choose to be interviewed that setting. Still, be careful of any wall paintings, house decorations, or other scenery that could be a distraction.
  • Look into the camera. Remember that the camera serves as the interviewer’s “eyes”. Your “eye contact” will be determined by how you engage the camera. Be careful not to focus too much on your computer screen. When you talk and look at your screen you will appear to be looking down. Keep your head up, back straight, and look into the camera.
  • Practice. It is a different experience trying to interact with someone through a camera and computer screen. You may not get the body language signals you are accustomed to, especially if the feed has a delay. Your best preparation tactic is to treat this interview just like an in-person interview. Wear your suit, take notes in your portfolio, and practice your responses.

Knock ‘em dead!

Posted by Alzay | Filed Under mba applicant 

I’m Tired of This Application Stuff

July 3, 2008 | Leave a Comment

One of the things people rarely talk about is the fatigue involved with the MBA application process. Fatigue is real and it can stop the positive momentum you have built up. Here are a couple of thoughts for you if your inspiration is a little low.

Hang in there and have perspective. Maybe it has been an arduous 8 or 9 month process for you. Maybe it was a 3 month process at 100 miles/hour. In either case, the experience isn’t nearly as exciting as it once was and there are still certain parts of the application you are unsure about. Fatigue is a factor now. This is where the term “application process” begins to take on new meaning. Make a quick list of the things you MUST do to complete your application. Focus on the MUST haves and leave the lesser priority items alone.

Keep your confidence about the work you have done. This is a long process, but make sure you finish strong. You may have to turn your application in without everything being “just right”. Be confident that you gave the process your best effort. Trust your work and know that the admissions committee will appreciate the excellent package you have prepared. All of the hard work you have done is going to show itself shortly.

Posted by Alzay | Filed Under mba applicant