Recruiting Strategy
Is retaking the GMAT worth it when I already have an MBA and want MBB?
I'm in a Fortune 500 rotational programme after my MBA and have picked up M&A and strategy experience. My business school isn't a top target, so I'm considering retaking the GMAT to put a stronger score on my resume. Is that a worthwhile use of time compared with improving the rest of my profile?
Ian’s Answer
Look, a higher GMAT certainly won't hurt. In some instances (depends) it might be the difference between automatically being screened out and not.
However, there are two really important considerations:
Can you really assume you'll score better?
What is the alternative use of that time/energy?
I took the GRE in college because I figured after college I would score worse and I'd “proably” want a master's degree at some point.
4 years later when applying to MBAs I studied for months and months for the GMAT. My scores were fine, not great. I remembered my much stronger GRE score and realized I could use that!
Point being: Test taking gets harder and harder the longer you're in the workforce.
Alternative use of time/energy: Getting a promotion. Building up actual skills (Python, R, Tableau, Alteryx, MS Project, Excel, etc.). Getting consulting experience (pro bono, part time, on the side). Networking
When you internalize that time is limited then you need to look at how to optimize your time to maximize impact.