Have you ever wondered what drives you to succeed? At ProValues we discovered that when our users align their jobs with their career values and ensure their minimum requirements are met, that they are more likely to be satisfied in their career. Being more satisfied with your career has typically resulted in our clients being more engaged and productive employees.

Last week, I had the pleasure of “job interviewing” some students at my daughter's school as part of one of her class’ activities. While I had originally volunteered simply to help out, I ended up with so many insights about interviewing talent development and poise. I was amazed how much 9-year olds had to teach me (and hopefully you)!

Close your eyes and imagine yourself one year from today. Have you gotten in to any of your top-3 choices? Did you earn scholarships? Are you already connected with peers or faculty to hit the ground running at your chosen school? Assuming you want to answer "yes" to any or all of these questions, when did you start the process?

Inevitably this time of year, MBA applicants all over the world are asking this question. In articles that outline shocking results (or in conversations with individuals who are seeking detailed feedback through a ding report), there is often a lot of analysis or commentary about wholesale changes a candidate should consider, tweaks they could make to their existing profile, and/or some commiseration about the competitiveness of the pool, etc. Some disappointment is natural. However, given that there’s rarely a single answer for a disappointing result, detailed digging into the reasons for the outcome can distract from the most important question: How do I make the most out of the MBA experience ahead of me?

That is the question few of us ponder, but business leaders sometimes face in an increasing complex talent retention environment. We sometimes hear about it in entertainment and sports, but is it right for your team?