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
- Why career goals matter
- Common mistakes to avoid
- How to craft compelling goals
- 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!
