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How to craft compelling MBA career goals

Hit the bullseye when defining your MBA career goals!

The video below will show you, step-by-step, how to craft compelling MBA career goals for your MBA application, MBA interviews, and other career-oriented discussions.

Transcript

Hi, I’m Alex Leventhal from Prep MBA, and today I want to talk to you about crafting compelling MBA career goals.

About Me

I run a boutique consultancy helping clients globally with MBA admissions. I’m a graduate of Harvard Business School, Class of ’98, and have been in this field for over 11 years. Prior to this, I worked as a senior executive at companies like Johnson & Johnson and Siebel Systems, as well as in successful tech startups. I also lecture regularly at the Harvard Club and am based in Los Angeles.

Why Career Goals Matter

  • They’re foundational to your MBA application.
  • Help you navigate interviews, essays, and school research.
  • Reflect your mission and purpose — not just a job title.
  • Create emotional interest in your candidacy.

What We’ll Cover

  1. Why career goals matter
  2. Common mistakes to avoid
  3. How to craft compelling goals
  4. Final tips and takeaways

1. Why Do You Need Career Goals?

Every school asks for them, directly or indirectly. Clear goals differentiate you and help guide your research and decision-making.

They also help admissions teams understand why you need an MBA — and whether your goals are realistic and well thought out.

Emotional Interest: The Dating Metaphor

Imagine two sisters: one with an unclear path, and the other with a long-standing love for animals and a clear vision for her future. The second is naturally more compelling. Admissions officers feel the same way about candidates with clear, purpose-driven goals.

2. Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Lack of clarity or direction.
  • Generic goals like “consulting” or “VC” without specificity.
  • Unrelated goals not backed by experience or interest.
  • Overly ambitious or unrealistic goals without a clear plan.
  • Jumping on trends without supporting background (e.g., EdTech).

3. How to Craft Compelling Career Goals

Use real examples and case studies:

Nikhil: Tech + Media

  • Background: Biz dev at Warner Bros, tech enthusiast.
  • Purpose: Lead innovation in protecting IP through technology.
  • Post-MBA Target: Media-focused consulting, then executive roles in digital media.
  • MBA Focus: Media clubs, strategy courses, professors in digital innovation.

Katie: Real Estate to Food Retail

  • Background: Real estate finance, strong food interest.
  • Purpose: Promote healthier food options for the Asian community.
  • Post-MBA Target: Category management roles, then launch her own chain.
  • MBA Focus: Retail management, food-related clubs, not finance.

Keith: Family Business

  • Background: Investment banking; family manufactures train interiors.
  • Purpose: Expand and modernize family business globally.
  • Post-MBA Target: Head of international sales, eventually CEO.
  • MBA Focus: Family business clubs, global strategy, international electives.

4. Final Tips

  • Your goals should reflect a mission, not just ambition.
  • Be specific to create emotional energy.
  • Ensure your story has an organic trail in your background.
  • Don’t choose popular goals unless you have evidence to support them.
  • Do thorough research using industry news, MBA websites, employment reports, and networking.
  • Adjust your goals slightly for schools with different strengths, if needed.
  • Choose goals that truly require an MBA — not all career moves do.

Thanks for joining me. If you want personalized help with your MBA goals or overall applications, feel free to get in touch!

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Alex supports applicants globally via video, phone and in-person sessions.

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