How to include Getting Fired in MBA Application Essays

In the post-2000 era, it is not uncommon to be fired. You might have experienced it. If you understand the rationale behind your firing, it becomes much easier to explain the event in your MBA Application essay. Mark Cuban remembers getting fired from Your Business Software after closing a deal instead of opening the retail store. He provides an interesting narrative about the event in – How to Win at the Sport of Business: If I Can Do It, You Can Do It about getting. (Excellent Book for budding Entrepreneurs and aspiring MBAs). Even though Cuban contributed directly with the new deal, his boss felt that opening the store that day was the assigned job function.

What can Mark Cuban teach you about providing a solid background story for getting fired?

1) Blame the Boss – With Evidence

Cuban cleverly explains why he closed the deal and how it was more important than opening the retail store that day. Have you tried something for the good of the company, but your actions were misunderstood? Then don’t forget to provide the backstory.

2) Error in Perception

Although Cuban blamed the boss, he provides an alternative explanation that perhaps his boss thought he was out for lunch instead of opening the store. Was your firing a case of miscommunication or error in perception?

3) Planning

Before going out of the office, Cuban cites how he delegated the task of opening the store to Barbara Depew, one of his co-workers. Have you been punished even after you have properly delegated the tasks to a qualified colleague?

Cuban is a billionaire and can afford to explain getting fired casually but for MBA aspirants like you, here are some useful tips:

1) Give a Balanced Narrative

Explain your side of the story but balance the narratives. Provide the rationale on why your boss made that decision. It shows your ability to understand group dynamics in a work environment.

2) Don’t Whine

The last thing you want to do while providing a balanced story is to whine about your situation. It is a tough balancing act to write your background story without hinting that you were a victim. Business Schools wants mature candidates with leadership capabilities.

3) Impact of the Economy

Many MBA aspirants face layoffs when the company loses an account or posts a quarterly or annual loss. Companies cannot afford to keep talented team members for too long if there are no projects. If your backstory is reasonable, AdCom will understand.

Don’t Blame Everything on the Economy

AdCom understands that economy alone was not the reason behind all layoffs. If you had lost passion for your job and that led to poor performance and eventual firing, then you still have hope. Explain how you view MBA as a tool for a career change. Don’t portray getting fired as a natural progression to MBA.

During the employment Gap:

1) Did you prepare for the GMAT and score 700+?

2) Did you help a start-up/non-profit in your locality with your consulting service?    

3) Did you lead your local community with fundraising initiatives?    

4) Did you develop a new passion like learning a new language/musical instrument or taking up an adventure sport?

5) How did you display leadership, communication skill, and maturity?

If you have realized your true potential or skills during the employment gap, then getting fired can be turned around as a positive life event in the essays.

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