Powering Through a Work Gap on Your MBA Application
December 17, 2023 :: Admissionado Team
In today’s competitive job market, employment gaps can be a significant concern, especially when applying for an MBA. Admissions committees often scrutinize these gaps, questioning whether candidates will be able to secure a job post-graduation. However, with the right approach, you can turn a work gap into a compelling part of your application. This article explores effective strategies to address employment gaps and present yourself as a strong, resilient candidate.
Addressing the Work Gap
Work gaps can be a red flag for MBA admissions committees. They might wonder, “If you can’t get a job now, why should we believe you’ll be able to get one after business school?” B-Schools prefer candidates who are employable and likely to land great jobs. But don’t panic; many applicants with employment gaps have been accepted into top MBA programs by packaging their stories effectively.
The Right Spin
How you frame your employment gap is crucial. Here’s how to avoid pitfalls and present your gap in a positive light.
BAD Example: “I got burnt out at my banking job and have actually spent the last five months perfecting my Halo skills and watching reality TV.”
GOOD Example: “There is indeed a gap in my employment history, but it isn’t indicative of who I am and what my potential is. In fact, had YOU, the adcom, been faced with the same set of circumstances, you too would have experienced the same reasonable work gap that I have.”
Strategies for Addressing Employment Gaps
The Gutsy Approach
This strategy involves facing the gap head-on and articulating the reasons behind it. Explain how these circumstances have impacted your goals and personal growth. This approach works well if you were laid off due to market reasons. For example:
“I worked for Lehman in 2008. And while I was doing a great job, well, we all know how well that turned out for all 4,000 employees who worked for the (now deceased) Lehman Brothers.”
The Safe, But Intelligent Approach
This approach requires that you were actively engaged in productive activities during your unemployment. Whether it’s taking night classes, volunteering, starting a business, or any activity that demonstrates your drive and forward momentum, it’s important to show that you didn’t let external circumstances define you. For instance:
“So here’s what happened. Lehman failed big-time, but I managed to do some cool stuff anyway. First of all, I was the LAST person to be laid off from Lehman, surviving six rounds of layoffs. But of course, I saw the writing on the wall. As soon as things started to turn sour, I began reaching out to my network. Within a matter of days, I had begun helping a friend with his startup, drumming up both new clients and investors for [insert whimsical startup name]. I also began to have some extra time to devote to [name of some organization], where I stepped up my involvement from two hours per week to six. One month later, despite the layoff, I was promoted to Head of Sample Group at [insert whimsical startup name]. So sure, there is a work gap, but from my perspective, this has been one of the most productive, successful periods in my career to date.”
When to Address the Gap
Length of the Gap
The honest answer here is that any employment gap can raise questions. However, gaps longer than 3-4 months should be addressed in your application. You don’t necessarily need to use the optional essay; you can incorporate the explanation into other parts of your application, such as the career goals section or even within your resume.
Reasonable Explanations
There are many valid reasons for employment gaps: pursuing further education, volunteering abroad, or caring for a sick family member. These explanations can demonstrate your strengths and commitment to personal growth if presented correctly.
Addressing Adcom Concerns
Always consider the admissions committee’s perspective. They want to be assured that you are employable. If you address your career gap, emphasize that the gap does not reflect your ability to secure a job in the future. Show them your proactive steps and resilience during the gap period.
Conclusion
An employment gap doesn’t have to be a deal-breaker in your MBA application. By effectively framing your story and demonstrating your proactive approach and resilience, you can turn this potential weakness into a strength. Remember, the key is in the packaging. Whether you face the gap head-on or show how you stayed productive, make sure to reassure the admissions committee of your employability and potential. With the right strategy, you can overcome this challenge and impress the admissions committee with your determination and resourcefulness.
