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Why PI? 4 Reasons!

Why PI?  4 Reasons!
Published : Thursday, 22 Jauary, 2015 12:25 PM
 
Personal Interview or PI is the last and very crucial stage which youmust clear before you are likely to be declared successful for getting admission in any MBA Institute. 
 
Before you face PI, Understand the DNA of PI, why PI is conducted? 
  
The personal interview (PI) is a process to test the 'views' expressed by a candidate during WAT or GD 
 
A few 'knowledge-dipstick' questions on one's basic academic background might also be fielded to assess the depth and accuracy of existing knowledge. A few basic General Awareness or on Current Affair questions may also be asked. B-Schools also give weightage to consistent academic performance.
 
According to experts, Personal Interview (PI) stresses on the following areas:
  • Goal Clarity
  • Knowledge
  • Communication Skills
  • Personality traits
Goal Clarity
 
"Why do want to do an MBA? How does it fit into your career goals? What do you wish to do after your MBA?" - These are some hard questions that you will have to answer almost invariably in all Interviews. These questions search the 'inner motivations' of a candidate, and there are no 'right answers'. The only way to answer these questions is to introspect: what excites and motivates you; what makes you perform your best; what would you really like to do in your life, and how do you genuinely see an MBA helping. Tough questions, but answering them honestly is critical for your success!
 
'Why MBA?' is the most important question that MBA aspirants need to answer. There is no "good answer" for this. The answer needs to be your answer. In other words, you need to think deeply, introspect and find out what it is that really drives you, that really sends a shiver of excitement down your spine when you think of achieving it. It is only this excitement and this drive that can convince the interview panel about your answer rather than any 'manufactured' answer by any test prep faculty.
 
Also "Why do you think now is the right time to pursue an MBA?", "How will you fit into our program?" And "What will you do after you graduate?" are the key questions for every interview candidate. Interviewers are looking for responses incorporating specific examples from your academic, personal, and professional experiences. Further, they want to know the reasons behind your major life decisions.
 
So put on your thinking cap, do some soul searching and then jot down the answers to 'what's your goal' questions.
 
Domain Knowledge
 
Given that a good MBA is a demanding program, B-schools would like to know how you will be able to cope up with the academics and the extra-curricular 24 x 7 demands of your new campus. They are also keen to assess how you have utilized the earlier learning opportunities.
 
Be prepared to discuss different specialty areas in business and their responsibilities. Interviewers will also expect you to discuss current issues in business, including the economy, taxation, foreign competition, the role of technology and ethical challenges in the field.
 
Interestingly, it is not just about knowledge and answering the questions but also 'leading' the interview panel. Anything you say opens the doors to new lines of questioning and discussion, so make sure you know where you are leading the interview. Be careful about the gates you open, and be very sure you have in-depth knowledge about whatever you mention. 
 
Brush up on your area of specialization/ subjects at graduation. Account for breaks, if any. Take pains to know about the company you work for; your place in the scheme of things and your contribution. Since 'Extracurricular' would comprise activities other than academics and work life, list those activities, preferably recent, that you have participated in or initiated. Be clear about what you do in your leisure hours. Preparation for general awareness questions is an ongoing exercise.
 
Communication Skills
 
Your speaking and listening skills become very important than the often tested reading and writing skills. As simple as it may sound, good communication strategy is quite simple. Listen to the question keenly to understand it well, and then offer a precise answer. If you don't know the answer, no bluffing the panel please! The experts are too experienced to notice this and can get switched off.
 
While speaking, the biggest sin you can commit is beating around the bush and being too verbose. Remember, panel can easily interpret these "tactics" on your part to be lack of clarity or a deliberate attempt to obfuscate your lack of knowledge. Also, while answering questions, please remember it is not a quiz and you can actually pause and collect your thoughts before answering, if required.PI is a two way communication.
 
Personality Traits
 
Positively your Body language is on anvil and it is your gestures with positive posture which can get you through PI. You are exposed to well experience admission selection panel which may give you ample chance of getting you at ease during PI but it is totally up to you how to capitalize on these chances. 
 
Mantra is, get ready and remain focused with complete positive outlook! 
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