Hey everyone - I'm applying for my MBA in the UK for the 2015-2016 academic year and have a few questions regarding how work experiences ties into acceptance. I understand that adcom wants to see a clear progression in an applicants work history; which I have. I started my career mainly in sales and account management which has led to me starting my own company. However, my company has taken a downturn and it's been struggling to pick back up. It may be awhile until it does pick up and until then I may have to look for another job just to pay the bills. My questions are:

1) If I do take up another job, which would be temporary, how would adcom view this?
2) Are there certain jobs (outside the obvious) that would hurt my chances of getting in?

I'm qualified to do managerial positions that would indicate progress in my career, however, I'm only looking for something temporary since I'm planning on leaving in Fall 2015 which may mean pursuing less lucrative career fields.

How can I keep the lights on while not hurting my chances of getting accepted? Thanks in advance!

I think an adcom would want to see if you were capable of realising whether or not the start-up is a sunk cost, and whether the new role builds your skills.

I don't think it will be a problem that your company has taken a downturn; in interviews and application essays you should try to focus on how the experience has improved your skillset, and what you've learned from doing it. I know people whose startups completely tanked and who were nonetheless able to successfully get into business school.

As far as what you should do between now and then, it really depends. Something you can point to as career progression, or otherwise builds your skills, would be ideal.

I think a job or internship with a firm known to the schools you are targetting would be better.