Your Social Media While Applying to Business School
Originally published on October 19, 2023. Updated on November 7, 2024.
Social media’s impact is a hot topic, especially given the recent election in the U.S—But how does your social media presence really affect your chances when applying to MBA programs? Could sharing a strong opinion on social or political issues impact the way MBA admissions committees see your application? The reality is complex, and these are questions that demand some careful reflection. Your social media presence might be shaping how an admissions committee views your candidacy more than you think.
It’s quite likely that an MBA admissions committee will at least review your LinkedIn profile—many applications even ask for the link—and may also look at other public profiles, such as Instagram, Facebook, or Twitter.
Need guidance on building a strong personal brand for your application? Request a consultation with our team to discuss your MBA admissions strategy.
Why Your Social Media Matters in MBA Admissions
According to Kristen Lindeman, a Vantage Point Senior Consultant and former MIT Sloan Admissions Committee member, “your social media is absolutely fair game, and admissions committees don’t shy away from Googling candidates.” When you’re applying to business school, admission teams often turn to public platforms like LinkedIn to gain insights about who you are beyond your formal application materials.
If you’re granted an interview, your online presence may give interviewers an added perspective on your background and interests (unless it’s a blind interview, where they’re explicitly asked not to). And once admitted, you’ll meet plenty of new faces at admitted students’ weekends and on campus—and we all know how tempting it is to look up a new peer online, right?
So, how can you ensure that your social media doesn’t negatively impact your MBA applications?
Pro Tip #1: Give Your Social Media the Mother-In-Law Test
Start by applying the “Mother-in-Law Test” to assess your social media. Imagine meeting your significant other’s family—what would they find if they Googled you? Begin by searching yourself online to see what’s publicly available.
- Check Privacy Settings: Update privacy settings on all social media accounts to control what others can see.
- Curate Your Public Content: Ensure that public posts and comments reflect positively on you. Avoid photos showing excessive drinking, inappropriate behavior, or casual comments that could be taken out of context. Simple adjustments can greatly enhance your online presence.
Post thoughtfully and Lead with Positivity
When applying to business school, it’s essential to approach social media with caution and respect. MBA programs value diverse perspectives and thoughtful dialogue, so while sharing your viewpoints is fine, avoid engaging in heated debates or posting anything that might be viewed as insensitive or divisive. If in doubt, seek a second opinion from someone with a different perspective.
Demonstrate leadership through positive engagement by showing support for others. Congratulating peers, acknowledging achievements, and offering encouragement can help build a strong leadership profile—an important quality that admissions committees look for in candidates.
Pro Tip #2: Social Media is an Extension of Your Personal Brand
When managed strategically, your social media presence can actually strengthen your MBA application. Think of it as an extension of your personal brand, reinforcing the unique skills and career goals you’re showcasing in your application.
Optimize LinkedIn and Add Authenticity to Your Profile
Start by focusing on LinkedIn, where a polished, professional profile can make a strong impression. Create a headline that clearly summarizes your experience and goals, such as, “Strategy consultant with expertise in consumer products and technology, passionate about mentorship.” Ensure that your LinkedIn profile aligns consistently with your resume and application materials.
Adding a touch of personality to your profile can also enhance authenticity. If you mention hobbies like running, traveling, or volunteering in your application, incorporate them into your online presence for a well-rounded view of who you are. Following industry accounts or sharing relevant articles further highlights your genuine interest in the field and adds depth to your profile.
If you’re applying to business school and looking for more MBA admissions advice, follow our social media presence (see what we did there) on LinkedIn and Instagram! You can also reach out to schedule an initial 30-minute consultation here.
Katie is a passionate mentor and coach, helping her clients craft a unique, compelling story by leveraging her experience as a corporate executive, alumni interviewer, and campus recruiter. Before completing her MBA at Kellogg, Katie spent five years in banking where she learned practical finance skills as well as how to operate in a demanding, high pressure environment. She pursued an MBA in order to transition to an industry role where she could utilize her finance knowledge to drive change within an organization. Post-MBA, she worked in finance and strategy for a leading CPG firm, progressing to an executive role leading the finance function for a $2B business segment. Her experience managing diverse teams led to a passion for developing others. In addition to her day-to-day responsibilities, she led her firm’s MBA recruiting efforts and served as an alumni admissions interviewer for Kellogg.