Articles

Ways To Work Your MBA Into A Job Interview

2010-07-14

Without a doubt, getting an MBA degree is a significant accomplishment. Among many things, it demonstrates one's ability to navigate successfully through the rigorous demands that are a hallmark of most MBA programs. However, in this poor economy, it is not uncommon for even professionals with MBAs to lose their jobs. Many professionals in transition decide to pursue a job search in order to secure another opportunity as soon as possible. Some professionals decide to search for a job while they are still employed by their present company. It goes without saying that job seeking candidates should conduct themselves as accurately and professionally as possible during an interview. What are the ways that a candidate can tastefully acknowledge his MBA degree during the interview conversation?

First, one should consider the introductory period as a potentially good time to mention his MBA. Ideally, interviews begin with a brief window of time during which the candidate and interviewer(s) exchange personal greetings, talk about incidental items such as sports or the weather and attempt to become more comfortable within the interview setting. There might be a decoration that is displayed in the interviewing room or a topic that is mentioned that has something in common with the candidate's MBA program, for example the program's geographical location or its mascot. The introductory period sometimes provides a window for the candidate to note an association between that item or topic of discussion and the candidate's MBA degree.

Another opportunity for a candidate to make known that he earned an MBA can often present itself during the portion of the interview in which the candidate must demonstrate why he is interested in and should be chosen for that job. Interviews follow various formats, depending on many variables. As a result, it is the responsibility of the candidate to use logic and intuition to determine appropriate times to mention his MBA. Fortunately, the candidate has several opportunities to relate his experience within his MBA program to questions that he must answer about his skills and abilities.

During most interviews, the candidate will be given the opportunity to ask the interview(s) questions. If the candidate discovers that the interviewer(s) attended his MBA program, he can take this opportunity to ask the interviewer what he experienced while getting an MBA from that institution. The interviewer may even enjoy the opportunity to discuss his experiences with a person who can relate to his experiences.

There are several ways for a candidate to reference his MBA during an interview, provided he is creative, intuitive and subtle in how he highlights his accomplishment.