Top 5 MBA Interview Tips 

As an MBA student, you’re going to be fielding a lot of advice. It starts before you even enter the program—with application tips and strategies —and it carries right through to graduation. MBA interview techniques, in particular, is a topic prospective students should thoroughly research. Below are our top five MBA interview tips, whether you’re interviewing in person, over the phone, or through video.

Be Prepared 

Before going into your interview, read up on the program. What makes it unique? Why are you interested in this program in particular? What is the name of your interviewer? Learn a little bit about them to build a solid basis for a thoughtful, fruitful conversation.

Once you’ve done your research, find a friend/colleague, and conduct a practice interview. It might seem odd, but practicing is a great way to help you act more naturally during your actual interview. Think of it this way: You aren’t practicing your responses, you’re practicing responding – this will help to take the pressure off finding your words once you’re in the interview, and help you relax.

Listen, Then Talk 

It’s astonishing what happens when nerves come into play. Just because you’ve had some practice interviews doesn’t mean you should be on autopilot. Interact with your interviewer and listen to what they are asking you. Be prepared for follow-up questions and remember: an interview is a conversation. Your interviewer wants to a sense of who you are as a person. Pay attention to what’s being asked, then answer genuinely and with humility.

Note: If you’re interviewing via video and want to “make eye contact” with your interviewer to show that you’re engaged, look at the camera, NOT the screen.

Anticipate the Unanticipated 

You can’t predict everything that will be asked of you, so preparing yourself to roll with the punches is a crucial step in your MBA interview prep. You may be asked about your vulnerabilities, or about a time you failed. You might get asked a follow-up question that seems to come out of nowhere. Don’t let it throw you. Always stay grounded and go back to the basics: You’re here to let your interviewer and (by extension), the program of your choice get to know you better.

If you get a question that leaves you feeling surprised, remain calm, and answer it with grace. It might just be that your interviewer wants to see how well you can think off the cuff.

Prepare Interview Questions 

At some point, your interviewer will ask if you have any questions. Don’t say no! Before you start practicing, keep track of any questions you have about the program. Compile thoughtful questions to show your interviewer you’re paying attention and that you are invested in the program. Here’s one to get you started: “What do you think is your program’s greatest asset?”

Don’t Neglect the Small Stuff 

Get a solid night’s sleep the night before the interview. Make sure you have enough time before your meeting for a shower. If you’re interviewing by phone or video, make sure you’re in a quiet place with no distractions. Pick a fresh, professional outfit and iron all items the day before. (This goes for video interviews, as well) Arrive for the interview early, so you have time to gather your thoughts and get a feel for the land.

It’s a good sign that you’re seeking out MBA interview tips, as research and preparation are crucial to success in an MBA program. Looking for more tips before you apply? Check out our infographic on writing a graduate school essay or our blog post on building your resume.