It's been discussed on the site in a few different ways and scenarios, but I wanted to specifically ask the WSO community how they have personally (preferred) or heard/seen peers (also fine) pitch themselves as a candidate without an MBA, when the job posting says "Bachelor's degree required, MBA strongly preferred".
For some context, this is for a development associate position with a large shop (Brookfield/Hines/Related/BostonProp) in a secondary market. I personally do not have an MBA, but have experience in a development internship in undergrad, then in research with a large brokerage, and currently in debt & equity placement. I am sure there are many Monkeys around who have successfully sold their work experience in a light that made their lack of MBA way less of a big deal, and maybe even landed them a job that would've went to your typical MBA candidate. On the flip side of this, to the Monkeys with one of these top MBAs, how did you feel like your peers with direct CRE experience were able to compete with you for these top roles, or maybe even how did you pitch your elite education as to make yourself sound like the best person for the job, despite the lack of direct CRE experience? I am trying to think through this from all angles.
My general thinking/pitch, so far, goes as follows: "Ever since my first internship with insert well-known regional developer here, I have always striven to gain the direct skills and knowledge necessary to create a career in institutional development. I believe my experience pitching large corporate occupiers and institutional landlords during my time with (CBRE/C&W/JLL) in research, coupled with the financial modeling/acumen gained while assisting our clients with their capital stack, positions me in a way that adds value on both the leasing and capital allocation side of the business, which are two of the most critical skills sets of any developer."
Just to be clear, if anyone here thinks I'm coming at this from the completely wrong angle and am full of shit, definitely want to hear those thoughts as well. Always appreciate the brutal honesty that comes from the WSO community.
Is this for a cover letter or something?
Why not just reach out to who you think the hiring manager is directly and try to connect? If you do connect, I wouldn't even bring up not having an MBA and just highlight your relevant experience....
However, if this is listing for a formal MBA recruitment program then your are likely SOL.
You're approaching it in the correct way, but unfortunately, that's going to be a difficult hurdle to jump. Getting a position at the type of firm you're after is difficult enough for someone with experience and top pedigree - let alone someone who doesn't.
The absolute best remedy for not having a graduate degree is having a couple of years of direct development experience, but I've been told by at least two of those companies you've listed that isn't even seen as a positive. Oddly enough, some of these firms would prefer a MBA to actual experience on projects.
Still, shoot your shot. Contact the decision makers directly, make your case, be personable, etc. You never know.
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