In June, INSEAD made an announcement that set the scene for the next big trend in MBA admissions: The video essay.
Business schools had been slashing the number and length of their required written essays. In their place are pre-recorded questions applicants must answer by video using a webcam.
INSEAD said it plans to introduce a four-question video essay for its 2017 intake. Toronto’s Rotman School of Management started the fad in 2012. Since then, others have followed suite. Kellogg School of Management, Yale School of Management and Georgetown’s McDonough School of Business have all introduced a video component to their applications in recent years.
Admissions consultants expect more business schools to jump on the bandwagon.
So how do you ace these newer video tests?
First, start by crafting clear and compelling content; the meat of the story is the most important element no matter how it’s delivered. Second, remember that you’re now talking directly with a person; this is human interaction rather than just a collection of facts, so consider your body language, style and tone. And finally, don’t be overwhelmed or distracted by lights and cameras; schools want to admit authentic students rather than the next Steven Spielberg or Spike Lee.
2. Practice. And Then Some.
Practice, practice, practice! Dust off your webcam and use an app like iMovie to record yourself responding to some sample questions. Review the video and check for presentation (uncluttered setting, good lighting), quality of the audio (your voice can clearly be heard; your voice sounds lively and engaging), body language (looking at the camera, smiling, but not constantly!), and content (were your responses succinct, authentic, interesting?).
Practice the way you would for an interview. Become familiar with the platform. Practice speaking to a computer screen, spontaneously and naturally. That practice is absolutely critical to doing your best.
Don’t memorize your story and regurgitate it. You will sound like a robot. Rather, familiarize yourself with the types of questions that you will face and then practice answering those questions. But that’s not enough. It’s also important to practice answering unexpected questions. Tape yourself and review your performance and address weaknesses. And research the schools and know exactly what they are looking for.