Hi and welcome back! If you’re reading this there’s a good chance you’re either frantically completing and submitting the last of your applications to meet final deadlines, nervously waiting to hear back from schools, or have already been admitted and are relaxed and excited for the upcoming school year. Regardless of what category you’re in, good luck!
I recently came across an interesting article regarding leadership challenges facing MBA’s (read it here). One common thread I’ve seen from all of my classmates is that everyone is eager for a leadership role in some form or another, be in in class projects, MBA clubs or student government. These opportunities are plentiful and will present themselves. I wanted to take a moment and share some tips to maximize these experiences during your time in business school.
1. Before you can lead, you need to be able to follow.
I know what you’re thinking here, “Matt, I’ve been following for (however many years you’ve been working) it’s time for me to take charge”. On one hand, you’re completely right, this is the time for you to take charge and be a leader. On the other hand, you will be working on a lot of projects with a diverse set of individuals, and there will be times when you’re the subject matter expert, and times when it is someone else. The key is knowing when to step back and play a supporting role.
2. When you are in charge, don’t be afraid to assert yourself.
You will quickly find that there are a lot of type-A personalities with impressive resumes in your business program, and at times it can be daunting. There will be lots of discussion and consensus building, but ultimately a decision will need to be made. If you’re the group leader, don’t be afraid to make a decision and run with it. You’re generally better off trying to fix something after the fact rather than spending hours agonizing over the “perfect” choice.
3. Keep a sense of humor.
Ultimately, there will be long hours and long nights with the same people. Things will get tense. Occasionally there will be tears. If you’re steering the ship, its your job to keep it on course, and that means keeping the mood as light as possible. Just remember what you’re doing may seem like life and death at times, but its only school and you’ve done it before. Have fun with it and try to help everyone else do the same.
Well, that’s it for another quick blog post. Hope all is well and good luck with the rest of your application process!
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