Tag: recruiters



RESTON, Va., June 20, 2017 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Corporate hiring plans for 2017 point to robust employment opportunities for graduates of MBA and business master’s programs, according to a new employer survey report from the Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC). Globally, 86 percent of companies plan to hire recent MBA graduates this year, up from 79 percent that hired them in 2016. Demand for these MBA graduates is strongest in the United States and Asia-Pacific, where 9 in 10 companies plan to hire these candidates.

Karen Heise

“It’s indeed good news the market continues to value MBA talent,” said Karen Heise, Director of Olin’s Weston Career Center. “The expectations and requirements for MBA students to achieve their career goals means a lot of hard work, persistence and resilience. Olin’s MBA students invest significantly in their career search and succeed across a wide range of industries (consulting, financial services, technology, CPG, manufacturing and healthcare being the front-runners) and job functions including finance, general management, consulting, and marketing. The entrepreneurial spirit of our students serves them well in capitalizing on opportunities where MBA talent is valued.”


“Despite the political uncertainty about the status of immigration and work visas in the United States and other parts of the world, companies are keen to hire graduates from this year’s MBA and business master’s programs, including international candidates,” said Sangeet Chowfla, GMAC president and CEO. “This signifies the value these programs create for students and the vital role their skill sets bring employers.”

At the time GMAC conducted the Corporate Recruiters Survey in early 2017, respondents in Asia-Pacific, Europe, Latin America and the United States declared their companies are staying the course with plans to hire international graduate business candidates. Overall, 59 percent of the survey respondents plan to hire or are willing to hire MBA and business master’s graduates requiring legal documentation — a gain of seven percentage points from 2016.

Most U.S. companies (55 percent) either plan to hire (28 percent) or are open to hiring (27 percent) an international candidate in 2017 — up from 49 percent that had such plans last year. The technology industry in the U.S. is the most likely to hire international business graduates this year. Half of U.S. tech firms (50 percent) plan to hire such candidates in 2017 — up from 27 percent that planned to hire them last year.

GMAC conducted the 16th annual Corporate Recruiters Survey in February and March 2017 together with survey partners EFMD and MBA Career Services & Employer Alliance (MBA CSEA), in association with 97 participating graduate business schools. Survey findings are based on responses from 959 employers representing more than 628 companies in 51 countries worldwide. Two additional organizations, CEMS and RelishMBA, assisted with recruitment of survey participants.

Additional Key Findings
Hiring Demand Also Bright for Business Master’s Graduates
As the outlook for MBA hiring continues to look bright, so do projected hiring trends for 2017 business master’s graduates, especially those with Master in Management and Master of Accounting degrees.

•    The largest increase in hiring demand compared with 2016 is seen in the share of companies that plan to hire Master in Management graduates; globally, 59 percent plan to hire recent Master in Management graduates, up nine percentage points from last year.
•    Notably, 70 percent of manufacturing companies plan to hire Master in Management graduates in 2017, up from 50 percent of companies that hired them in 2016.
•    Data analytics expertise continues to be in high demand. Sixty-nine percent of employers plan to place recent graduate business school hires into data analytics roles in 2017, just trailing marketing, business development, and finance roles — each with 71 percent.

More Start-Up Companies Plan to Hire B-School Grads This Year
For the first time, this year’s survey report breaks out the responses specifically among start-up companies, revealing a promising 2017 hiring outlook for business school graduates. Three in 4 start-ups plan to hire recent MBA graduates in 2017, up from the 52 percent that hired them in 2016. More start-ups also plan to make 2017 hires from graduates of Master in Management (37 percent), Master of Accounting (23 percent), and Master of Finance (25 percent) programs.

Compensation: MBA Salaries Will Reflect 83 Percent Premium Over Recent Bachelor’s Salaries
Globally, more than half of survey respondents (52 percent) report that MBA base salaries will increase at (34 percent) or above (18 percent) the rate of inflation in 2017. Latin America (74 percent of respondents) and Asia-Pacific (59 percent) have the greatest share of companies that plan to increase MBA salaries either at or above the rate of inflation this year.

A majority of European and U.S. companies (57 percent and 51 percent, respectively) will maintain 2016 salary rates for new MBA hires in 2017. The projected median base starting salary for recent MBA graduates in the U.S. in 2017 is US$110,000, up from a median of US$105,000 in 2016. This represents an 83 percent premium over recent bachelor’s-degree holders in the U.S., who can expect to receive a median starting salary of US$60,000 in 2017.

“Once again, this year’s report brings to light the continued value of the MBA degree to the marketplace,” said Megan Hendricks, executive director of MBA CSEA. “The increased interest in specialty master’s talent provides further indication of the relevance of these programs at our member schools.”

Link to download the full report.

About GMAC: The Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC) is a global, nonprofit association of 220 leading graduate business schools. Founded in 1953, we are actively committed to advancing the art and science of admissions by convening and representing the industry and offering best-in-class products and services for schools and students. GMAC owns and administers the Graduate Management Admission Test® (GMAT®) exam, used by more than 6,500 graduate programs worldwide, and the NMAT by GMAC™ exam, for entrance into graduate management programs in India.

Source: GMAC news release




Recruiting events are usually large occasions and can be overwhelming if you are not properly prepared. To be successful at such an event, it’s important to prepare ahead of time. Here are a few tips from the WCC about navigating recruitment events. (Be sure to check out Part I.)

Sometimes recruiters won’t accept paper résumés

This doesn’t mean they’re not interested in you; instead, they are adhering to compliance policies and online recruiting procedures. Ask for a business card, and follow up with recruiters after the fair to let them know that you have applied, or plan to apply, online.

First impressions are very important

At recruiting events, employers are not trying to figure out how to screen you in.

Recruiters are looking for things that will screen you out. Your energy level, handshake, dress, and résumé can make you a success or failure in seconds.

Think of talking to the recruiter as an audition

What can you say and do in the first minute of conversation that will make him or her want to grant you an interview? Make sure to smile, have a firm handshake, and look recruiters in the eye.

Keep your energy high, be assertive, and ask engaging questions—especially ones that demonstrate your knowledge of the company.

Ask questions that reflect your research

Do not ask what the company does, what kinds of jobs they have, or what they can do for you. The recruiter will expect you to have done your research and to know these basic facts.

Dress as if you were going to an interview

A common mistake at recruiting events is to dress too casually. Both men and women should wear suits. If you have questions about professional attire, speak with a career advisor.

And last but not least, don’t eat, chew gum, use heavy fragrance, or smoke during a recruiting event.

Collect business cards from recruiters

Also be sure to jot notes about them and the company on the back of the card. Use these cards to send personalized thank-you notes after the event.

Thank recruiters

Write a thank-you note to every recruiter you speak to at the event; save contact information for future networking opportunities and to develop a target list of employers.

If you’re not looking for full-time employment at the time of the event, let the recruiter know.

Recruiting events are valuable—even for students who are not pursuing full-time jobs or internships. They’re a good way to meet recruiters and make early networking contacts. The senior-year job search begins in your freshman year—students who start building networks and identifying potential employers early are the most successful at getting internships and job offers later.




Recruiting events are great opportunities to meet employers from a wide range of industries and potentially obtain job interviews. If you make a favorable impression, you have the best chance of being invited to interview. Time spent at recruiting events can pay off—it’s your chance to see many career opportunities that are open to you, and you may connect with potential employers who can offer you a job. They also provide an opportunity to practice your interview skills in a less formal environment.

Recruiting events are usually large occasions and can be overwhelming if you are not properly prepared. To be successful at such an event, it’s important to prepare ahead of time. Here are some tips from the Weston Career Center:

Get a list of participating companies

Check the hosting organization’s website or looking for printed publications a few days before the event. Usually a list of companies and a map of their locations will be provided for larger events.

Find connections within those companies

If possible, find someone you know who works at a company you’re interested in; alumni are good resources. At the event, you can mention the name of your contact to the recruiter, which can help separate you from the rest of the students.

Research the companies

Employers expect you to know something about their companies before you talk to them. In addition to visiting company websites, you can use annual reports, press releases, and newspaper coverage that can be found on the Internet or in the WCC Resource Area.

Maximize your time

Maximize the brief time you have with recruiters by knowing how your skills and interests match their needs.

Understand the job openings and opportunities

Become familiar with types of career opportunities available at the companies of greatest interest to you (most company websites have this information), and prepare to sell yourself accordingly. You are the product, and employers are the customer.

Prepare your 30-second self-introduction

This should include your name, your education, and your career interests as they relate to the company. In addition, always come prepared with an example of your skills and experiences.

Schedule a mock interview

Set up a mock interview with an advisor to practice your introduction and to discuss your marketing strategy. Practicing will make you more relaxed and confident during the event.

If possible, arrive early

Recruiters may have to leave early, and they can be tired and less attentive at the end of a long day.

If you’re nervous…

Consider approaching a recruiter with a company that is not one of your top choices first as practice.

Choose your top booths ahead of time

It’s important to plan which company booths you want to target, and focus on no more than three to five that are of special interest to you. You can visit more companies if you like, but make sure that your efforts are focused on your top companies first.

Bring several copies of your resume

It is a good idea to have more than one targeted résumé with different career objectives if you are looking at several career options (résumé should be on résumé-quality paper, and you should bring at least one copy for each company you plan to visit).

Stay tuned for part 2!




“Tell me about yourself and your career goals in 60 seconds or less.” That’s the challenge facing students at the annual Meet the Firms events when recruiters come to campus to look for new talent. Representatives from 50 companies were here last week and 900 students lined up to get a chance to pitch themselves. The same scenario will repeat Sept. 20 for the second round of Meet the Firms with 50 different companies lining the three levels of the Atrium.

Here’s what we saw trending at Meet the Firms:

  1. Lots of swag! Sunglasses are a popular perk.
  2. Black is the new black. EVERYONE was wearing a black suit.
  3. Firm banners provide some insight into the company’s culture.
  4. Advice: wear comfortable shoes for standing in long lines at popular firm tables.
  5. More advice: smile and offer a confident, firm handshake!



In addition to expert advising and free coffee, Olin’s Weston Career Center offers courses, skill-building workshops, networking activities, and resources to prepare students for a lifetime of career management.

Students new to Olin may not be aware of the plethora of resources the WCC provides students. (Did we mention free coffee?) Allow us to introduce some of the WCC’s best offerings for students interested in career development or embarking on the job search:

Access to the Bloomberg Terminal

The Bloomberg Terminal allows students to access the Bloomberg data service, which provides real-time financial data, news feeds, and messages. The terminal is available in the WCC office by request.

Career development videos

On the Olin Careers website students will find recruiter advice and insights on topics such as résumé writing, effective business communications, interviewing, and strategic relationship building.

Guidance for veterans

Veterans have a proven record of performance and are ready to serve in civilian jobs where there is a need for leadership, team building, organizational commitment, and advanced technical training. The WCC offers coaching and resources for veterans and collaborates with the Olin Veterans Association to prepare students for the transition to civilian employment.

Interview Wiki

The Wiki is a student-editable archive of historical interview questions, along with other information, that is searchable by company. Students can update the Wiki questions after interviews to ensure that the questions are current.

LGBTQ resources

For the sixth consecutive year, the WCC was recognized with the highest level of certification (A+) by the national OUT for Work Career Center Certification Program.

The WCC offers resources to LGBTQ students seeking information on locating gay-friendly companies, coming out during the job search and transitioning into the workplace. In addition, the Weston Career Center partners with the WUSTL LGBT Student Involvement and Leadership office to provide a variety of programming. Any student seeking a confidential advising appointment may contact the Weston Career Center at wcc-director@olin.wustl.edu.

Management 201–Management Communications

A collaboration between faculty and Weston Career Center career advisor, MGT 201 Management Communication is a required course for all sophomores and offers students tools for a successful job search. Students get individualized attention to identify, articulate, and sell their value to an employer. They will develop their résumés, elevator pitches, and interview skills and build a strong online brand presence. Each professional development session is supplemented with workshops led by Weston Career Center experts, to provide hands-on tools and exposure to the technology and resources offered at Olin and the Weston Career Center. The course also teaches students to develop their business writing and public speaking skills as they solve real life client communication challenges.

Seminar series and workshops

Designed to give Olin students an advantage in the marketplace, seminars and workshops are presented by outside experts and corporate partners.

Working closely with our network of alumni, employers, and faculty, our employer relations team explores domestic and global markets for hiring trends and employment opportunities. We’re continually cultivating our partnerships with exceptional companies—and building a reputation for interns and graduates who are ready for business, with the tools and talent to create value for their organizations.

A student meets with a representative from evetos at the 2013 Meet the Firms event.

A student meets with a representative from evetos at the 2013 Meet the Firms event.

On-campus recruiting

Throughout the year, hundreds of companies recruit Olin students through on-campus, phone, and Skype interviews. The WCC interview-suite computers are fully equipped with Skype services and webcams that are available for student use.

BSBA and specialized masters students can apply for positions and sign up for interviews through CAREERlink. MBA candidates can do the same through MBAFocus.

Upcoming recruiting events: 

Networking road shows and career fairs

The WCC sponsors several events to provide networking opportunities, including Meet the Firms events, domestic and international road shows, symposiums, New York and Silicon Valley Career Treks, and club-sponsored activities. Other networking opportunities include all-campus career fairs at Washington University.

A network of professional associations

Olin has chapters of the National Black MBA Association (NBMBAA), the National Society of Hispanic MBAs (NSHMBA), National Association of Women MBAs (NAWMBA), and Net Impact. These organizations sponsor annual career conferences that provide access to recruiting companies. In addition, these associations encourage academic and career development.

Olin is also a member of the Forté Foundation—a consortium of major corporations and top business schools that has become a powerful change agent in educating and directing talented women toward leadership roles in business.

In addition, Olin is a founding member of  The Consortium for Graduate Study in Management—the country’s preeminent organization promoting diversity and inclusion in American business. The Consortium has built a 50-year legacy of fostering inclusion and changing the ethnic and cultural face of American business.

Information sessions

Companies host these events to enhance visibility on campus, preview the quality of Olin’s talent, and serve as a precursor to their on-campus recruiting schedules. Don’t miss the chance to meet recruiters and learn more about their companies, industries, and career opportunities.

Upcoming company information sessions:

Salary information and employment statistics

The WCC compiles internship and job-offer data to provide employment information to students, employers, and relevant partners. Information that is reported is confidential, and statistics are aggregated in report format.