We’re going to tell you something you probably already know: if you’re applying to an MBA program this year, be careful about what you post online. It’s possible that business school AdCom members could do a quick search on your name before admitting you to their program, and you don’t want something written in haste to derail your chances of getting in.
But being active on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and other social media platforms isn’t a complete no-no. In fact, savvy candidates could actually use these venues to boost their credibility and solidify the good impressions made through their application materials.
For example, let’s say that you’re hoping to switch careers after business school, and in one of your essays you share your intention to work for a company that develops clean-energy options in third-world countries. You could tweet links to articles or books you’re reading on the subject, you could post about a local conference you attended, or you could give your take on the most promising advancements in the field.
Or maybe your career to date has led you to become somewhat of an expert on microfinance. Reinforce that reputation through your online presence. Let people know when you were quoted in an article or asked to be on a panel.
Are you a marketing guru? It would be easy to weigh in on—or share—what some of the biggest brands are doing on social media.
The key is to keep things professional and on point. It’s absolutely fine to let your personality shine through, too—just as it should in your essays.
Remember, if you don’t consider social media to be another way to strengthen your candidacy, you may be missing out on a great opportunity that other MBA applicants will most certainly take advantage of.
Think of it this way:
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