Welcome to Crotonville

Welcome!  Today marks the beginning of the “Interview Forum” for the GE ECLP program.  Over the next two days, a handful of folks from top b-schools all over the country will postpone their early Thanksgiving plans for 2^nd-round interviews and a fun-filled two days to ask questions, network, highlight their skills, and determine if GE and ECLP are right for them. 

Just as your b-school experience probably seems like it has flown by, it doesn’t seem like all that long ago that I, too, found myself as a 2^nd year b-school student flying into LaGuardia and looking for the driver holding a sign with my name on it to take me off to the big “House that Jack Built”.  And yes, walking into the unknown can be a bit unnerving.  So hopefully this post will relieve some jitters as you get a quick “preview peek” of Interview Forum as well as a bit more insight as to what you can expect.

While the GE brand may be known for many things, certainly one that comes to the top of the list is the commitment to employee training.  Every year, GE spends roughly $1 billion in training and educational programs.  Perhaps the HQ, or“mother-ship” for all this takes place in a 53-acre facility about 30 miles north of New York City on the Hudson river.

“Crotonville” will probably remind you of going back to campus at your alma mater.  As you get into your rooms, polish the shoes, and pop open your laptops, be sure to also relieve pre-interview jitters by checking out the local kitchen near your room.  Its sure to be full of both tempting and healthy snacks to keep you going.  Grab that map from the front desk and find out where the “WhiteHouse” is.  This is a very cool spot you’ll later become familiar with that hosts cocktail receptions and other social engagements.  This will be your shot to mix and mingle with a host of GE employees.  A trip to Crontonville isn’t complete without checking out “The Pitt”, where countless lectures and company brainstorm sessions have taken place tackling some of the biggest challenges within business today.  After you’re done, walk out to the patio outside has a view of the River and where the helicopters come in.  We are big dreamers here at GE, maybe that will even be you coming in on that heli one day. 

So now that you know your way around the place, its time to think about what’s going to take place over the next two days.  Here are a few thoughts and tidbits you might find helpful to get the most out of the next two days.

•  How do you fit in?  I think its always a good idea to have a clear picture of why you think GE is the right company, and what you think you could offer. 


• How do you lead?  In a company that has produced countless CEOs, its also good to reflect upon your personal leadership style and attributes. 


• Remember, it’s your chance to shine.  As for the presentation, while this may be different than other interviews you have done, think of this as another way to distinguish your personal brand.  What are you passionate about?  How can you tie that into a career at GE?  Remember, your pursuasiveness and presentation skills are really whats evaluated, and not your expertise.  Be creative and memorable to distinguish yourself from the pack.

On the car ride back from Crotonville, you’ll be amazed at all that has happened in two days.  Above all else, enjoy the experience and be yourself.  It’s likely you will form relationships with other candidates and GE employees that could even last your whole career.    We look forward to meeting you.  Oh, and good luck!

Posted by Jared