resume

The resume is one of the most overlooked parts of the application process! Chances are you already have one but haven't looked at it since you last changed jobs. Your resume is probably the first piece of documentation that the Admissions Officer (i.e. the person deciding whether or not you get into business school) will review, so you better make it a good one! Here are some tips to get started: 

 
 
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1. Get the Basics right

There are different layouts and resume designs you can use, but we recommend choosing one that focuses on highlighting your experiences and accomplishments rather than being distracting. As a rule of thumb:

  • 1 page for every 10 yrs of experience

  • No clutter, blank spaces are appreciated!

  • No grammatical errors

  • Avoid non-common/industry specific acronyms and very technical terms

  • Start with Professional Experience and keep Education below

Pro-tip: Make sure you align your LinkedIn profile with your latest experience.

Checkout these resources:  Stratus, V-mock (most MBA programs will give you access once you are in)

 
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2. Highlight key accomplishments

You might be tempted to include all of your working experiences, but it is important to highlight key accomplishments that point you towards a leadership position. Keep these things in mind:

  • Show results to demonstrate the impact and reach of your work

  • Quantify as much as possible to show outcomes (e.g. cost savings, sales target, P&L managed, number of people managed)

  • Use specific examples instead of having "job description" type sentences

Focus on highlighting examples that complement other sections of your application. For example, if you don't have a great GMAT score, perhaps you can focus on projects that had analytical components.

Additionally, add your roles and accomplishments in volunteering organizations! Your involvement in these organizations is critically important to demonstrate you care about your community.

Resources: P&Q How to Stand Out, US News, Stratus tips for resume, 

 
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3. GET FEEDBACK

Having someone else review your resume is a very useful exercise! Not only can they help catch grammatical errors, but they can tell you if something is not clear. This can give you an idea on how you and your work are perceived through your resume. We recommend:

  • Asking different reviewers (e.g. coworker, friend, partner)

  • Provide specific instructions to each reviewer (e.g. "can you review with he focus of ensuring that all my bullet points are results oriented?")

Pro-tip: Go to MBA admissions tour and get a 15-min free review with consulting companies. They will also often give you feedback on your resume.

Check out: US News article,