How do recommendations work?

Question

Hi all,

I'm currently applying for B-Schools and am connecting with my recommenders. I realized that a recommender has to undertake a significant time commitment to put in one recommendation: 3-4 essays (or 300-500 word answers). This multiplied by the #schools that a candidate is applying to can be a lot of effort for the recommender (even though some material could be repurposed from the original recommendation).

Since a lot of Consulting employees work closely with Partners/Directors, it might make a lot of sense to take a recommendation from them.

Questions:
 
1. Given the time commitment required and the busy schedule of people at the leadership level, do AdComs expect/prefer candidates to submit a Partner/Director recommendation? Is there any impact of the designation of the recommender?

2. On the flip side, since AdComs are aware of the required time commitment, and of the busy schedule of people at the leadership level, would a recommendation from these folks raise an alarm: eg. the candidate helped in the recommendation process?

On another note, how do you approach your seniors asking them for such a time commitment?

Looking forward to your thoughts/experiences.

admitStreet · Answer

va789 - The goal of a good LoR is to supplement your application, so the AdCom understands your abilities and traits from a third person's perspective. Ideally, your recommender should be your current direct supervisor or Manager who has observed your work closely, worked with you for a good period of time, and can provide specific examples of your achievements and growth. The designation of your recommender matters less than these factors. For example, a recommendation from a Manager who has worked closely with you and can provide specific anecdotes is better than one from a Partner who you haven't worked closely with or can't provide detailed responses. Some guidelines on how to approach your recommenders and tips/ mistakes to avoid can be found in this write-up . Hope this helps. Regards, Arvind Founder, admitStreet LinkedIn W: https://admitstreet.com | E: consultingteam@admitstreet.com

va789 · Answer

Hi Arvind,

Thanks a lot for your reply.

This helps me understand the process a little better.

What are your thoughts on the following-

Q. If both, a manager and a partner, can provide the same context in a recommendation, would a recommendation from a partner mean more?

admitStreet · Answer

va789 - Yes, sure. Some schools ask for 1 or 2 recommenders, so having both the Manager and Partner/ Director submit can help in those cases. Regards, Arvind Founder, admitStreet LinkedIn W: https://admitstreet.com | E: consultingteam@admitstreet.com

ExpertsGlobal · Answer

Hello  va789 ,

Thanks for writing in.

The designation of the recommender is not of primary importance (it is, at best, a secondary thing); so long as the recommender is someone who has managed/supervised your work in a close capacity, you should be ok; schools understand that a recommender may not have that kind of time; hence, the expectation is not for the recommender to meet word limits, provide structured responses, or write very lengthy essays; if the salient points are covered with some situational examples, the recommendation is good to go.

Again, designation and seniority do not count as much as closeness of association does. Yes, if the same context can be provided by a Partner in equal detail, that would be great!

All the best!

MBAandBeyond · Answer

Hello va789 , I hope you are doing well. We have tried answering your concerns in the best of our capabilities. 1. Expectations and Preferences of AdComs Admissions committees (AdComs) generally value recommendations from individuals who share a close working rapport with the applicant and can offer a thorough evaluation of their skills, experiences, and future potential. The recommender's title, whether Manager, Director, or Partner, is less critical than the recommendation's content and depth. Nevertheless, recommendations from high-ranking executives, like Partners or Directors, may carry more weight for various reasons: Expertise and Understanding: Partners and Directors possess a comprehensive understanding of the company's operations, culture, and expectations. They can shed light on the applicant's contributions to strategic initiatives and their ability to handle significant responsibilities. Credibility and Influence: These senior executives often command respect in the industry, making their recommendations more credible and influential to AdComs. 2. Concerns about Recommendation Authenticity AdComs recognize the time commitment involved in crafting recommendations, especially for busy senior-level executives. While they appreciate such recommendations, they are vigilant about potential issues. If there's suspicion that the candidate played a substantial role in drafting the recommendation, it may raise concerns about authenticity, diminishing its value. AdComs prefer recommendations reflecting the genuine perspectives and observations of the recommender. Approaching Senior Executives for Recommendations When seeking recommendations from senior executives, it's crucial to approach them respectfully, considering their time constraints. Here are some tips: Personalized Requests: Tailor requests to each individual, emphasizing specific instances where they observed your skills. Express gratitude for their time and expertise. Preparation Materials: Offer updated resumes, cover letters, and work samples to aid the recommender in crafting a strong recommendation. Flexibility with Timing: Acknowledge unpredictable schedules and offer to meet at their convenience or provide written responses to their questions. Ultimately, impactful recommendations are genuinely insightful and provide a well-rounded assessment of the applicant's capabilities and potential. Reserve your spot now and set yourself up for a thriving future in the business world. REGISTER FOR THE SESSION HERE! We offer a limited number of complimentary profile evaluations each week . We match you with the students and alums of top B-Schools according to your background and target schools. In this call, the experts will try to dig out your USP for top B-schools and provide you with honest feedback on your profile and chances to your target schools. Neha Hadke Strategy Manager Testimonials Meet our Panel of Consultants. Email: neha@mbaandbeyond.com MBA and Beyond

va789 · Answer

Thanks a lot experts for your thoughts!

Admissionado · Answer

va789 :

Responding in-line:

1. Given the time commitment required and the busy schedule of people at the leadership level, do AdComs expect/prefer candidates to submit a Partner/Director recommendation? Is there any impact of the designation of the recommender?

A: The seniority of your recommender is not all that important so long as the person knows you well. You are better off with a relatively junior recommender who can vouch for you much more strongly than a relatively senior recommender who knows you vaguely.

2. On the flip side, since AdComs are aware of the required time commitment, and of the busy schedule of people at the leadership level, would a recommendation from these folks raise an alarm: eg. the candidate helped in the recommendation process?

A: It would not raise an alarm. Also, candidates can help in the recommendation process. They just shouldn't review or write the letters themselves if they can help it.

On another note, how do you approach your seniors asking them for such a time commitment?

A: You talk to them well in advance including laying out which schools are on your list and the deadlines. You provide them with any or all resources to help facilitate the process. You express deep appreciation and recognition of the time commitment. Lastly, you follow up delicately to make sure they are still in a position to fulfill their commitment to you.

Good luck,
Admissionado

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