It’s a given that in India Today, if you have to secure admission in a Good or even a decent Business School after you have taken CAT/MAT exam, be prepared for a grueling Group discussion and Personal Interview Schedule.
The last year of interviews which we (JRE Group) had conducted all across the country, we saw that a lot of aspirants actually believe that Gd/PI is a kind of hoax where people can get through with just saying the very cliché stuff or very ordinary answers to the questions which are put to them.
For Example, when people who dont have an idea about financial institutions say that they would want a career in Finance after a School, its laughable. A business School is supposed to bring out the best in you and not frame your career preferences. If you have interest in Finance, a Business School is the platform which allows you to plan and pursue a career in Finance. So if you asked about your long term career vision, make sure you have an answer which justifies through what you have done in the past.
In general, the group discussions have a small case or an issue which is discussed among a group of students like you. You are given time to read in the discussion room and you will be asked to start the discussion. You may be asked to write a summary of the discussion at the end.
For interview you must have good stock of general knowledge which can cover a wide range including politics, social issues, business news, events, sports, music, and so on. You must be thorough in the subjects you have studied at undergraduate level, at least be hundred percent sure in one or two subjects and mention that when you are asked about your favorite subject. Be quite ready with the subjects where you scored high in undergrad studies. The depth of the questioning here can be very high.
Similarly be sure to be familiar with details of hobbies you have written about or you plan to mention. If music is your interest, just saying music is your interest is not enough. You must know some details and the names and biographies of famous musicians
Following are some points to remember
Be dressed properly. Very casual and informal attire may not work in your favor. Calling candidates in may be in random order, so it is better not to wander off from the venue.
Group Discussion – Some Tips
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Follow the instructions of the faculty in the room carefully.
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Read the discussion case or issue given and note the key points. Identify the main problems and think of some recommendation you can make
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Try to work out an agreement within the group so that everyone gets a chance and no one ends up screaming. Do not simply remain quite. If you are not being given a chance to talk insist and talk.
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Maintain a cool and calm attitude. Do not get irritated or angry and do not insult anyone.
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Narrate you points in a sequence. Plan how many times you need to intervene to mention all.
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Smile and be firm and clear but do not disagree with others. Appreciate their view and give a reasonable hearing to the others.
The Interview - Tips
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Walk in with confidence and greet with a smile and salutation.
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Answer the questions clearly. Be prepared to explain any anomalies in the academic performance.
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Be honest and when you are no familiar admit that.
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Do not get into arguments but you can disagree.
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Remember to thank the panel
If you are working or worked be prepared to talk about the jobs, reasons for leaving, skills you acquired, your industry and the trends. Your reporting relationship and situations you have handled and the contributions you made.
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