Note: This post first appeared on Ivy Groupe's blogThe Importance of Branding in MBA ApplicationsA common misconception of applicants is that gaining acceptance to the top MBA programs comes down to having strong statistics – in other words, a high GPA score and high GMAT/GRE score are the key factors that will drive their success in the process. Unfortunately, given this assumption, many academic achievers are disappointed when they are denied admission to the schools of their choice (and surprised when those with more average scores are admitted).
So, what is the difference between those who are more successful versus those who fall short? Those with strong statistics no doubt have a strong shot, but those who are accepted likely took the time to develop their personal brand.
What is a personal brand? Essentially, it’s a picture of who you actually are – your qualities, characteristics, and values. Successful candidates are able to demonstrate their personal brand in a compelling way throughout their applications.
Below are three reasons why you should take some time to develop your personal brand before delving into the applications.
Your personal brand is the foundation of your story/strategyYour MBA applications are an opportunity to tell the Admissions Committee about you in a cohesive way. Too many times, candidates jump into the process and start working on the different parts of the applications without any clear goal or purpose in mind. This results in applications that are “all over the place” with no clear message.
Your personal brand will dictate the story/strategy of all of your applications and become the core foundation. It will be the compass that will make it much easier to determine in which direction your applications should be shaped. Each piece of the application – your essays, resume, recommendation letters, short answers within the applications – will be driven by your personal brand. It’s not easy to develop one’s personal brand, but by taking the time to do so, you will already be ahead of your competition.
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Applying in the near future? Contact us at https://www.ivygroupe.com/contact or info@ivygroupe.com to request a free 20-minute consultation with Shaifali, our Founder/CEO who is an HBS grad and MBA admissions expert who had the opportunity to collaborate with the HBS Admissions Office as a student. Shaifali’s philosophy focuses on authenticity and storytelling to help clients craft compelling and differentiated applications that stand out. With this approach, Shaifali has successfully helped hundreds of applicants gain admission to top-tier MBA programs.