How to Answer: What are some companies you would like to target in your post-graduation job search?
Advice and answer examples written specifically for an University of Virginia Darden MBA interview.
8. What are some companies you would like to target in your post-graduation job search?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Your UVA Darden admissions committee interviewer wants to learn more about the companies you would be excited to work for in the future. The committee contains staff, alumni, and current students with experience networking with some of the most reputable names in business today. They also have strong relationships with several departments within the government. This question is an opportunity to express your vision for your future and convince your interviewer you will utilize the valuable network UVA Darden has worked hard to establish and maintain.
Written by Karrie Day on February 28th, 2023
What You Should Say
Provide your interviewer with a few examples of companies you would be interested to work for in the future. Explain why these specific companies have piqued your interest, or how they align with your goals professionally. Take the time to research the 'partner with Darden' section of their website and mention their participation in the program if a company you are interested in is a current or past partner of UVA Darden.
In my opinion, the only poor way to answer questions like these is to stop at 'I don't know'. Candidates who fail to elaborate miss an opportunity to help their interviewer get to know them better. Your interviewer may also feel you are lacking vision. If you are unsure where you would like to go next, give your interviewer a sense of the attributes and values you are looking for in a future opportunity.
Written by Karrie Day on February 28th, 2023
Answer Example
"I have worked in the hospitality industry for over a decade. Most of my roles have been with smaller companies and I would like the opportunity to apply what I have learned in an enterprise setting. I noticed in my research that several executives from companies such as Marriott and Hilton participated in UVA Darden's leadership speaker series. I was pleased to learn UVA already has a strong relationship with several of the companies I would like to explore working for after graduating with my MBA."
Written by Karrie Day on February 28th, 2023