Unlocking Your Potential

I’m a coach and business school instructor based in Paris, with roots in Canada. As a guest lecturer at HEC, a keynote speaker, and a success coach, I’ve helped countless students master the subtle art of showcasing their strengths and leaving a memorable impact.

If you’re applying to business school, you’ve probably put together a solid resume, aced tough exams, and built a compelling narrative. But there’s one thing many miss—the skill of truly understanding and presenting what makes you unique.

This isn’t just about polished stories or impressive vocabulary. It’s about clarity, confidence, and an undeniable presence.

Setting the Table for Success

Here are key tips to help you articulate your value with precision so you can walk into any interview ready to make a lasting impression.

1. Understand What You Really Bring to the Table

Clarity about your unique offer is crucial. Many applicants have strong achievements but struggle to communicate them effectively. Your value should be so clear that you can explain it in 30 seconds or less. Spend time crafting this pitch—every word matters. Identify what sets you apart so distinctly that no one in your circle can compete. Your words should captivate like a 30-second commercial.

Example:
“Are you looking for an MBA candidate committed to using their degree to empower women in the Global South? Would your faculty benefit from someone more passionate about philanthropy than a Wall Street paycheck? Look no further—I’m the candidate you’ve been searching for.”

Remember, audiences vary. If you’re applying to a finance-focused school, emphasize metrics. If the school prioritizes global impact, tailor your pitch accordingly. Never reuse the same generic pitch—customization makes all the difference.

When answering prompts like “Tell me about yourself,” skip irrelevant details and focus on what makes you unique. Get input from people who know you well to ensure accuracy. Use concrete examples to highlight strengths. For instance, if you’re “results-driven,” prove it: “I built a feedback system for Airbnb guests that boosted host retention by 20% in two months.” This kind of action-result statement speaks for itself.

2. Demonstrate What Makes You Invaluable

Next, pinpoint what makes you irreplaceable. Imagine being in a room full of equally qualified candidates—what tips the scales in your favor? It’s not just about feeling special; it’s about identifying your distinct qualities.

One of my MBA students aced their ESSEC interview by sharing how they managed stress through an unconventional method—working with a breathing coach in Brazil. This demonstrated adaptability and creative problem-solving. Reflect on your own experiences to find what sets you apart, then practice delivering it with confidence.

3. Show How You Can Make a Difference

Highlight how you’ll contribute to your future cohort or team. If you’ve lived abroad, explain how this global perspective enhances collaboration. Showing how you’ll enrich group dynamics makes your value tangible.

Ensuring Your Presence Backs Up Your Words

Knowing your offer is only half the battle—how you present yourself is just as critical. Body language, eye contact, and presence can make or break an interview.

1. Make the First 5 Seconds Count

Early in my teaching career at ESSEC, I saw MBA candidates lose their edge within seconds—often due to weak body language like slouching or avoiding eye contact. Instead, own those first moments: walk in purposefully, sit tall, and hold steady eye contact. Small adjustments create a powerful first impression.

2. Project Belonging

Many applicants walk in feeling like imposters, forgetting their worth. In my coaching, I emphasize mindset: Believe you belong at the table. Visualize success and bring that energy into the room. This shift dramatically affects how interviewers perceive you.

3. Master Technical Aesthetics

Details matter. For in-person interviews, dress comfortably for the setting. For video calls, test your setup beforehand. Focus on:

• Avoiding filler words (e.g., “uh,” “like”) to maintain authority.
• Staying engaged—keep your focus sharp.
• Exuding calm confidence—smile, breathe steadily, and stay relaxed to put interviewers at ease.

The Story of You

Mastering these skills—knowing your value and commanding the room—gives you an edge not just for B-school admissions but for every career-defining conversation ahead. As an MBA student, you’ll constantly be auditioning for leadership roles in group work.

Polish your narrative by having clear, compelling stories ready. Maybe it’s leading a protest for abortion rights or organizing a charity gala that raised $200K for cancer research. These stories should be well-rehearsed, authentic, and impactful.

Finally, in virtual settings, you must own the room. Record yourself to check if your presence fills the screen. Are you showing up as the person you want decision-makers to see? Even if you’re nervous, fight to project confidence—because the virtual room should feel like you’ve stepped in, not faded into the background.