How to Write the Leadership Essay in MBA Applications

One of the most prized qualities in the eyes of the admissions committee is the potential of a student for leadership. As such, one of the essays you will be asked to write will be on leadership experience. Through this, the committee will want to ascertain not only the type of experience you have had so far in leadership roles but also your understanding of leadership concepts. Typically, the question will ask you to describe, in two hundred and fifty to five hundred words, a situation, in which you displayed leadership and what you learnt from it. As you write the essay, there are some vital points to bear in mind. The leadership example you give here will be seen as a reflection of the leadership opportunities you have faced in your professional career, and thus your professional maturity. Hence, you must pick an impressive example. Remember, this is not about the story itself, but more so about your role in it. You have to ensure to provide the reader with clear and solid takeaways about yourself. You need to illustrate that you have the leadership qualities that they are looking for, for example, exemplary performance, ability to delegate, meticulous execution etc.

Now that we have taken a look at the type of content expected in this essay, let us examine what type of structure should be employed while writing it for maximum efficiency.

The essay can begin with a strong opening expressing what exactly leadership means to you, though, this is optional. After the opening, you should start by giving a clear background to the entire situation. Once you have made the background details, clearly explain how exactly you came to be or were involved in the situation. Here, you can display values such as initiative and risk-taking and speak about how you displayed these qualities and emerged as a true leader. Also, explain the outcomes of your decisions as a leader. In the end, mention what you learnt about leadership from this experience and finish off with a powerful ending reflecting your desire to bring about positive change, in your industry and in the wider society.

Now, let us recapitulate this structure and take a look at just how much attention should be paid to each segment :

• Opening on the meaning of leadership (optional) - 15%
• A clear background - 20%
• Explain how you got/were involved - 20%
• Explain what you did; mention the outcome - 25%
• Explain what you learnt - 15%
• A powerful ending - 20%

Aside from the important points mentioned above, there are some broad tips that would be good to keep in mind while you are writing the essay. First of all, do not use essay templates, old essays or any other plagiarized material. This method is inefficient and highly unethical.

There is no singular “right” way to write an essay. Naivety present in your original style will only help your essay stand out. It is okay to take a second opinion on your work but do not get too bogged down by the opinions of others. Throughout the essay, make sure that you maintain a positive and inspired tone. Above all, focus on delivering the proper takeaways.