Searching for the best MBA program? How decoding a business school's holiday greeting can help.
Whether you are starting or in the middle of school search, chances are that you've come across advice that the best MBA program is the one that's best for you.
While that's true, it's easier said than done.
It goes without saying that it takes a lot of time and effort to research schools from surfing websites to speaking to students to sorting through comments in chat rooms. And that doesn't even include travel time to visit campuses that could very well be on the other side of the world.
It would be nice if there were some shortcuts.
Well, perhaps there are.
I always say that you can tell a lot about a school and its culture from the content they produce.
By following a school's social media page, for instance, you can form an impression by the posts they publish, the stories they share, the images they include.
Is the tone formal or casual? Educational or engaging? Is it all about them or more about you?
Over the years, I have studied the social media content for a ridiculous number of business schools. I have to say that it has shaped my opinion of a brand beyond the rankings.
For example, I've seen one school publish impressive stories about the startup ventures of their students and alumni. As a result, it elevated that school as a suggested go-to destination for entrepreneurship.
On the other hand, I know some schools that are doing some exciting things, but their social media presence lacks sizzle that goes along with the steak.
That aside, their social media channels will give you a better sense of the school's priorities and values so you can decide if they align with yours.
So what does this all have to do with a business school's holiday greeting? Check out a sample of some below. Notice the what that tells you about the school and it's culture. I've added some of my thoughts below each one.
We know that Wharton is world-renowned and intellectually rigorous, but this whimsical gesture also suggests a culture that is not stuffy. At Wharton, a social life can coexist with serious academic studies.
A message from the dean says that the academic leadership is personally invested in your well-being and success. With a culture that values teaching, faculty will be actively involved in your business education rather than being inaccessible researchers.
Is it important for you to be in an urban environment? Stern showcases its prime location, which is just minutes away from Wall Street. NYC will be a constant companion on your educational journey.
Are you wondering why Booth chose to feature a gargoyle? If you are, that shows you have that intellectual curiosity that is highly valued by the school, along with rigorous analytical thinking and bold leadership. At the same time, you know it's a place where you will have fun in a team environment, too. How many gargoyles have you seen sporting a school's signature colors?
The business school may be enveloped in snow, but it's warmth that shines through this seasonal greeting. If you are looking for a friendly culture that treats you like family, you may have finally arrived at your school.
Another school with a friendly family vibe is Desautels Faculty of Management. Here, winter sports coexist with your studies. Even the dean slides on a pair of ice skates.
Do want to learn in a down-to-earth team environment with strong school spirit? An Ivy League MBA can be prestigious without being pretentious. The group is huddled on the ground to welcome you where you are.
This greeting reinforces Midwestern tradition. If you want to experience a large, public research university like you see in the movies, take a closer look at West Lafayette, Indiana. You feel like you are living in a postcard.
Do you look at your education as a career credential or something bigger? If you want more than resume-boosting initials after your name, Columbia Business School may be right for you. It's a gift that bestows a sense of belonging to a great institution.
Wondering about fitting other parts of your life into your studies? TCU shows they are a family-friendly school. You don't have to choose between babies or books. You can have both at the same time.
It's not surprising that a business school that seeks MBA applicants who are "nice" and "aware" would post a greeting of a tree adorned with "grateful" ornaments. If you believe that business is much more than spreadsheets - one that prizes people - then this could be a very special place for you to study.