MBA Application Essay Writing Tips for Working Professionals

For working professionals, especially someone working in mid-level management or technical roles, getting dedicated time for essay writing is a rarity. But if you squeeze into the daily schedule, there are chunks of free time that you can turn into productive time for essay writing.

Commute

If you are driving, writing is not a feasible option, but if you have a recording app in your phone, dictate your thoughts. Instead of randomly recording thoughts on several essays, keep a schedule. Start with the goals essays.

Driving – staring at the road, and passively observing people on the road has a therapeutic effect on your thoughts, and offers clarity on what you need. Don’t switch on the radio - let silence fill the void. Switch on the recording device, and start to talk.

What do you plan to achieve in the next 3 to 5 years?

How can an MBA help you reach your goals?

While coming back repeat the same with another essay – strength or weakness. By focusing on two essays in a single day, you will not be tied down by the monotony of the task. Ending your day gives a much better perspective on your strengths and weaknesses as you would have succeeded in meeting the daily schedule, missed it or exceeded your expectations.

For a bad day, record your weaknesses. Ask the following question:

Why are you unhappy with your current position – professionally and personally?

For a productive day, ask yourself the following questions:

How can I contribute for the MBA class?

What are my strengths?

How will MBA help me with my goals?

Lunch Break

Unless you are closing in on a crucial deadline, most organization will provide a 1-hour break for lunch. Finish you lunch in 20 minutes. Convert the other 40 minutes for productive writing. Don’t worry about writing the perfect essay. This is your chance to jot down thoughts about each essay. If you face a roadblock, do not stop writing. Switch essay questions if it gives you the flow. Force yourself to sit in front of the laptop. If you feel pen and paper inspires you, move towards a quiet corner of the office, meeting room, or your car, and start writing.

To make the random writing exercise more productive, have writing targets:

a) List your 5 strengths and weaknesses
b) Write 300 words in 40 minutes about your weakness (1 or more)

With thoughts already recorded in the morning, you can easily convert the thoughts into an outline.

Evening or Early Morning

Depending on your energy level, and whether you are a morning or evening person, devote 1 hour for writing, every day. If you don’t have the energy to write in the evening, record your answers just before sleep – a 10-minute recording would be enough. If you have a routine for daily exercise either in Gym or with morning walks, carry your recorder. Again, length is not important. Even a 2-3 minute recording about one topic can translate to 100-150 words in essays.

Next Step

We have written a comprehensive MBA Application Essay Guide - "Winning MBA Essay Guide" that covers Essay writing tips for top MBA programs. Download it here.