Interviewers develop an impression of you in the first few minutes of the meeting, and spend the rest of the interview confirming their initial impression. Therefore, practice, practice and practice some more.

 IIM Personal Interview

The focus of a B-school interview can range from specific questions about your job to broad discussions on life. Approach the interview as a conversation to be enjoyed, not as a question-and-answer ordeal. It may be about your hobbies – your recent cross-country trip. This doesn’t mean that the interviewers are not serious. It just means that you’re being sized up as a person and a future professional in all your dimensions.

Try to be your witty, charming, natural self. Don’t try to put on. The interviewers will be able to see your masks through. Students, faculty, admissions personnel and alumni conduct interviews. Don’t dismiss students as the lightweights.

It is important to have a good idea of “What you consider to be your greatest strength, why and what are some examples that show this”, before you go into an interview. Although the interviewer will most likely ask some pointed questions, you may also encounter something as broad as “So, tell me about yourself.” These open ended questions are usually the ones that help you lead the interview.

Either way, you should have in mind what you want to convey about who you are before you go into any interview. Lack of preparation is a common complaint among interviewers, and if you are prepared, you will stand out among your competitors.

Do your homework

Have well thought out answers for questions such as “What are your strengths? Why are you right for that particular business school? Why is that particular program right for you?”

It shows organization and forethought if you know some specifics about the program to which you are applying and can explain why those features fit well with your career goals. For example, if you are applying to the Xavier Labour Relation Institute (XLRI), through some simple research you will discover that they are strong in Human Resource Development. Perhaps, you have worked with a recruitment company or have been a trainer in an institute. Relate these in the interview.

Categories: MBA, MBA Entrance Exams
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