By Ravindar Bose, MBA Class of 2015

If you are not in the game, there is no way you are going to win that game.

It is essential to get as many interview invites as one possibly can to get many job offers. All MBA candidates understand this, but only very few execute this to perfection. This is one of the differences between a candidate who has multiple job offers and a candidate who is struggling to get one.

Key is, connecting with the recruiter before they come to the campus for info sessions. Most of the companies have designated recruiters for specific schools and this information could be easily gathered through alumni and candidates from previous classes. It is crucial to connect with the recruiter before they come to the campus for three reasons:

1. To show the recruiters that you are truly interested in the company.
2. To get additional face time when they come for  the info session. If they know your name, they will spend additional time to talk to you and answer your questions.
3. To get introductions to the key people who will make the decisions. Recruiters know who has the final say on who is getting an interview invite. If the recruiters know you are truly interested, more often than not, they will introduce you to these decision makers.