Business school applications are all about showcasing how you've demonstrated leadership. This is arguably the single most important trait MBA programs seek. If you're struggling with how to define leadership in your MBA application essay, you're not alone.

One of the biggest challenges my MBA admissions consulting clients face is crafting a clear and compelling definition of leadership they can use as a framework for their essays. So naturally, I get asked all the time:
“What’s your definition of leadership?”

Stephen Covey’s Definition of Leadership (And Why It Works for B-School Essays)

I love how Stephen Covey, author of The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, describes leadership. He once said:

“Leadership is communicating to people their worth and potential so clearly that they are inspired to see it in themselves.”

This definition resonates deeply with me and, more importantly, with many admissions committees. That is because it focuses not on status or title, but on impact and empowerment. It also helps you reflect on how you've brought out the best in others, which is exactly the kind of story you want to tell in your MBA leadership essay.

Leadership Is a Choice, Not a Title

Covey often said that “leadership is a choice, not a position.” Anyone, whether you're a teacher, team member, project lead, or coach, can choose to lead by helping others grow.

He outlines a simple but powerful formula for becoming a great leader:

Inspire trust
Clarify purpose
Align systems
Unleash talent

These aren’t trendy management hacks. They’re grounded principles that build on each other and shape a leader’s character. This is something every MBA program is eager to see in its future students.

How to Apply Covey’s Model in Your MBA Leadership Essay

To craft a compelling MBA leadership essay, use Covey’s pillars as a guide. Start by thinking of a moment in your professional journey when you:

Built trust with a team or client
Clarified a shared goal or mission
Improved a system or process
Empowered someone to succeed

The key is to not only show what you did, but also why it mattered and how it helped others grow. Take it one step further by showing how you “paid it forward” and inspired others to lead as well.

Why Business Schools Care About Leadership Style

Many top MBA programs, like Harvard, Wharton, or Kellogg, directly ask you to describe your leadership style or give examples of leadership impact. Covey’s framework helps you move beyond generic leadership buzzwords to something deeply personal and values-driven. To think about leadership in this model, it allows you to PROVE your leadership ability.

You’ll stand out when you can say:

“Here’s how I define leadership. Here’s how I’ve lived it. And here’s how I plan to lead in the future.”

Need Help Writing Your MBA Leadership Essay?

If you’re struggling to define leadership in your MBA application or don’t know which stories will resonate most with admissions committees, we can help.

At Amerasia Consulting, we specialize in turning real-world leadership into authentic, powerful MBA essays.

Set up a free consultation today by contacting us at dhoff@amerasiaconsulting.com or visiting
👉 www.amerasiaconsulting.com/contact

Final Words from Covey

“Live, love, laugh. Leave a legacy.”
— Stephen R. Covey, 1932–2012

Let your MBA essays reflect not just your achievements, but your ability to lead with purpose and legacy in mind.

(Ref: http://www.stephencovey.com/blog/?p=6).