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Wharton Interview Process: Team-Based Discussion 20 Nov 2020, 08:48
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We've received many inquiries regarding the Wharton interview process. The Team-Based Discussion (TBD) is meant to model the highly collaborative nature of a program; many schools are now using this innovative approach to selecting candidates (including Michigan Ross and IMD). The goal of these interiews is to identify the following qualities in applicants: communication skills, engagement, leadership skills, decision-making abilities, etc.

In this article, we will discuss what AdComs are looking for in a candidate during TBD interviews and a few tips to stand out among your peers.

Format

This year the TBD interview will be held in a virtual format, teams of 5 to 6 candidates will be formed, your discussion will have a prompt and a specific goal, you and your team will work collectively to propose a tangible outcome. The first 10 to 15 minutes will be allocated for a brief introduction of each team member. The next 30 minutes will be spent generating ideas and a presentation model presented to two Wharton Admissions Fellows who evaluate each candidate's performance throughout the discussion.

After the TBD session, you will have a 10 minute one on one with an admission officer to debrief. You will also be asked a few typical MBA interview questions: Why an MBA? Why now? Make sure you come prepared to answer these questions and with a couple of thoughtful questions for your Adcom.

Competition vs. Collaboration

You must step into this interview with a collaborative mindset: you are not competing against your teammates. Applicants who stand out during these interviews are able to contribute to the group discussion, ask smart questions, listen to their teammates, and contribute only when appropriate instead of forcing ideas; taking over the conversation or dismissing your teammates' contributions.

Speak up and listen

Don't feel pressured to interject; only intervene when you have something meaningful to add to the conversation to avoid rambling. The interview process is about 45 min. You will only get 5 to 7 minutes to speak, make the most out of it and when done, actively listen to your teammates, show interest in their ideas, ask them to clarify, offer your feedback when needed and think about ways to integrate their ideas into the team's action plan. Remember that you will be judged on your ability to approach a business challenge and work cohesively with your team towards a positive outcome.

Be Flexible and stay engaged

Don't be fixated on an idea. Your teammate may or may not buy into your ideas or flat out disagree with your proposed approach. Don't take it personally, be open to debate, and offer alternative ideas. You may be compelled to demonstrate your confident demeanor; however, talking over or dismissing your teammates' ideas is not the way to impress the Adcoms. If the idea of another team member is chosen, think about ways to improve upon it. Keep track of time and ensure the conversation is moving forward. Your interactions with your teammate as more important than having your idea picked.

Be Yourself

Remember that the TBD format's end goal is for Adcoms to get a sense of your true personality and how you will contribute to the classroom dynamic. You've already made the cut to the interview, which means the committee has seen potential in you! If you are a deep thinker and introvert, don't feel compelled to portray yourself differently during the interview. Not being genuine may cost you a spot in the program.

The Admissions team will provide you with the necessary details for the TBD well in advance of your scheduled interview. To prepare for the interview, focus on your past personal and professional experiences; think about what skills and techniques would resonate in this type of team setting.

Need help? Team up with former admissions officers at The Admission Concierge for interview prep.