MBA Recruiter Interview: AT&T

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While AT&T is known for its phone and internet services, its acquisition of DirecTV has also made it the world’s largest provider of pay television. Notably for MBA prospects, the company came out top overall across six different categories relating to diversity in an employer ranking put together by Diversity MBA last year. In this interview, AT&T’s associate director of development programs, Theresa Hoover, discusses what it takes for MBAs to get a job with the multinational telecommunications giant.

Can you please describe AT&T’s MBA internship programs? What makes them unique?

AT&T offers internship programs in finance and general management for MBA students with a strong academic background and a minimum of two years’ work experience. The 10-12 week program places interns in areas of the business aligned to their past experience and passion. Throughout the summer, interns network with fellow interns as well as graduates of the program and participate in innovation sessions, a case challenge and community service event - all while completing a project identified as critical to the business.

It’s a tailored program that customizes challenging internships based on the intern’s skillset and background. Interns are placed in different parts of the business where they can gain the most experience, exposure and make the most impact. There are also opportunities to network with other leadership development program participants and leaders in the company. Interns are highly sought-after by business units within AT&T, which underscores their value and level of expectation. Our program really gives interns an opportunity to test drive all the possible career possibilities at AT&T.

How has the merger with DirecTV affected the types of assignments MBA interns have received?

The merger and integration with DirecTV, as well as our expansion into Mexico with Iusacell, touch every area of our business. From sales and marketing, to finance and operations, interns are given opportunities to see first-hand what goes into an integration of this nature.  

Last year, Diversity MBA magazine named AT&T as the most diverse employer. What does workforce diversity look like at AT&T?

Our leaders see diversity as much more than just the right thing to do – it’s imperative to compete in the global marketplace. As we transition to lead in a mobile, video-centric world, our success will be closely tied to the diversity of our skilled, highly trained team and the different ideas individuals bring to the table.

Specific to our MBA programs, we bring in students each year of diverse ethnicities, backgrounds and perspectives to learn from each other, widen their views, provide breadth of thought to decisions, and nurture and develop our diverse culture.

Interns also have an opportunity to participate in AT&T Employee Resource Groups (ERGs). These 12 groups are open to all employees and reflect the diversity of the company. The ERGs support the company’s commitment to diversity and inclusion through their efforts in the workplace, marketplace and the community.

Why do MBAs want to work for AT&T?

AT&T helps millions around the globe connect with leading entertainment, mobile, high-speed internet and voice services, and we’re the world’s largest provider of pay TV. We are recognized for adapting technology and products to meet the demands of a global marketplace. Our MBAs will acquire transformational leadership and pivoting skills that are essential to a dynamic workplace. 

AT&T’s company culture, our strong and respected brand, our belief in work/life integration, our strong commitment to developing people, of providing opportunities, and our community involvement are a few of the reasons MBAs want to work here.

What is AT&T’s MBA recruitment process?

Candidates learn about AT&T through various events on campus, apply and are then selected to interview with our college recruiting managers. In addition to a robust on-campus presence, AT&T takes part in several recruitment conferences such as the Forté Foundation (for female candidates), the National Black MBA Association and Reaching Out MBA (ROMBA-LGBT). Successful candidates are then invited to participate in a recorded interview and may be selected to attend a final interview in Dallas that includes a networking event, panel interview and conversations with existing program participants.

What do you look for when evaluating a candidate’s résumé and work experience?

When reviewing résumés, we look for demonstrated leadership, whether that has been at work, school/university or in the community, increased responsibility in experiences, taking initiative, and delivering results. Candidates must also be articulate and demonstrate a desire to learn. Strong analytical and financial modeling skills are preferred for the finance program. When we meet candidates in person, we evaluate how they articulate their desire to work at AT&T and their ‘soft skills’ – executive presence, communication and leadership style.  

What are the most common mistakes MBAs make when applying for jobs at AT&T?

The most common mistake is not having done their homework on our company. Students should research our business and be able to speak to some of the things for which AT&T is known. Students who have participated in AT&T campus activities and attended our information sessions and executive speaking engagements should come ready with topics to reference and questions for the company. It’s important that candidates demonstrate their interest and passion as well as how they can contribute and grow.

What does AT&T expect from its new hires? What can they do to increase their chances for advancement down the road?

We ask that our new hires jump in and learn, be humble, yet use their knowledge and skills to help the company. It’s important to build their peer and leadership network, learn the business and how they can positively impact both the bottom line and our customers.

To increase their chances for advancement, they should understand what their supervisor’s goals are and what exceeding those expectations looks like. New hires should also set up a few pulse-check meetings with their supervisors during the first 90 days to make sure they’re on track. It’s important to gain an understanding of how they can drive the business, how their particular business unit ties into the overall AT&T strategy, and what their impact is. Then they should look for the enhancements, improvements and creative approaches they can contribute to help drive results.

Is there anything I didn’t ask that you feel MBAs should know before applying for jobs at AT&T?

We would encourage students to get involved in the relevant organizations attached to their MBA program and to meet with AT&T on campus, where possible. Greater knowledge about the company and the people who make up the company will help students confirm that this is the place for them to learn, grow and demonstrate their leadership abilities.