5 Body Language Mistakes You Need to Avoid During Interview

Body language is a vital part of job interview and trust me when I say it, it is one of the determining factors of you getting selected or rejected for the job.
You body language says what you don't want to say. But with proper information about what to do and not to do, you can easily control your body language with little practice and crack the job interview of your dream job.

Earlier we had discussed about the 5 Body Langages You Must Know About Before Going for Interview

Today we will be discussing about the body language mistakes that we need to avoid to maximize the chances of selection.

Breaking eye contact
Properer and appropriate eye contact is a crucial assessment parameter for employers to gauge if the job seeker is confident enough or not and if he/she is insecure or deceptive. We don't ask you to stare on the face of interviewer, but try to hold your interviewers gaze for that extra second when you shake hands.

Chopping and Pointing 
Chopping and Pointing fingers represents the anger, frustration and aggression all in very negative way cutting short the connection between you and interviewer. Avoid these gestures even when you get the feelings like them. Instead, manage them by using both your hands in a nicer way, while explaining your point.

Not smiling
Who on the God's Earth, doesn't love a smiling face. A sweet smile brings in warmth and energy. With a gentle smile, you can put yourself and the interviewer at ease. On the other hand, failing to wear a smile on your face will make you come across as a grim and distant personality.

Slouching in chair
Your posture while sitting in a chair before or during the interview carries a lot of weight in terms of you getting selected or rejected in interview. Always sit straight rather than slouching in chair.

Fiddling with fingers
Playing or fiddling with your fingers during interview will put your impression as a bored or disinterested person. By toying with your fingers in interview, you send a direct message to the interviewer that you are not interested in the job or conversation.

Too many hand gestures
Yes, we said it and its absolutely right to use your hand gestures stress some crucial points but it must be balanced.  Too much of hand gestures are distracting and simply annoying. Try to avoid it.

Post by - 
Alok Kumar Upadhayay

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Questions Frequently Asked in Job Interviews

On a huge demand of our readers, we are finally sharing the questions ( types ) which are very frequent in interviews now a days. 

The answers vary as per the skill set and experience level of individual. Though it can help you in expecting what is going to be asked in the interview and with that, you can shape your answer. 

We don't recommend you to tell a lie in interview. We recommend honest answers, as its preferred and have better chances of selection. 

1. Tell me honestly about the strong points and weak points of your boss?
   
2. A is the mother of B and C. If D is the husband of C. What is A to D?
   
3. If FRIEND is coded as HUMJTK, how can CANDLE be written in that code?
   
4. Tell me something about yourself which is not there in your resume / CV?
   
5. Describe the best boss you ever reported to?
   
6. Tell me about something that's not on your resume?
   
7. What are three positive things your last boss would say about you?
   
8. If you could start your career over again, what would you do differently?
   
9. Where do you see yourself in next 5 Years ?
   
10. What are your greatest professional strengths ?
    
11. What do you expect from your supervisor ?
    
12. What will you do if our competitor offers you a higher salary ?
    

We will keep on adding more questions to the list.. 

If you have your own question, please share it in comments sections. 

to be contd...

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4 Questions that HR / Recruiters Love to Ask and How to Answer it

If you are preparing for an upcoming interview, then this post is for you. 

Though, no one can be sure about, what questions the HR Person of Recruiter is going to ask in interview but its not totally unpredictable. There are some set of questions that are very frequent in any interview and with right information and preparation you can be ready for some of the surprises. 

Based on the querries received about how to answer some particular questions, here are top 4 question that most of aspirants asked. 

Question 1: Have you been diagnosed with any major medical problem?

How to Answer : 1st tip, never lie in interview. If its about any major medical problem, its recommended to answer it correctly with Yes/No, followed by your statement. 

If No, then say : No Sir/Ma'am, I have never been diagnosed with any major medical problem and consider myself medically sound and fit for the job. 

If, its Yes, then also share about your treatment and recovery speed. It will put positive impact. 

Also, if its a major problem, then the company / HR is going to know about it sooner or later and then your employment can be in jeopardy.

Also, most of the companies ask you to give it in written on " Job Application Form" with self attested disclaimer. So, its good to state the truth. 

 Question 2: We have shifts, will you be comfortable working in different shifts?

How to Answer : Though, most of interviewees answer it as straight forward YES. 

Its recommended to asses your situations first and then answer it. Don't answer the question just for the sake of getting the job. If in your employment history, you have never worked in shifts, then it will be difficult for you and the recruiter sitting there is experienced enough to know it. 

Also, before asking this question, the HR Personal has already asked enough about you to know you. 

If you are actually capable of working in shifts and have prior experience only then answer as YES. 

If you have no experience of working in shifts, but ready to take the challenge, answer it as : Yes, I am open to work in shifts. 

It will be followed by other questions like : How will you manage your work life balance ? So be ready with answer stating your planned routine life, or new possibilities that will allow you flexibility. 

In case you find yourself unable to work in shifts, then answer honestly as NO. You never know, that if the job is actually gonna need you to work in shifts. 

Question : Have you ever been convicted of any crime in your life?

How to Answer : Yes or No, speak the truth. 

If you have been convicted of any crime, that will appear in your background check, that most companies do. So, its better to state it. 

If you have been a good person in your life, then answer its as No, I have never been convicted of any crime in my life. 

Question : What was the last salary withdrawn by you OR What's your previous /current salary?

How to Answer : I have seen people lying about it, speaking big numbers as previous salary. 

You must know that, the employers ask for your previous 3-6 months salary slips and bank statement details. 

So, its good to share your actual salary details in the interview. 

All the above question can simply be answered as YES or NO, though its recommended to answer honestly with brief explanation. It will help you to present you as a transparent and honest person and can boost your chances of getting selected. 

By - Alok Kumar Upadhayay

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Why Do You Want to Work Here ? How to Answer It in Interview

"Why do you want to work here?" OR 

"Why do you want to work with our company ?" 

These questions have always been tricky to job aspirants especially if they are freshers. Remember the question - "Tell about your weakness." OR "What's your biggest weakness?" Its equally tricky as that. 

Also Read : How to Get Internship at Google

So, you are a fresher or looking for a change and have a job interview lined up. You are almost prepared and yet uncertain about how to answer this dreaded question, this article is for you. 

1st I will tell you, what you should not say at all. Never answer the question "Why do you want to work here?" with these answers : 

• I'm skint / I need to pay rent
• I don't want to move back to my parents'
• I want a job / I'm bored
• I have loans. 
• I need it like my next breath.

Answer like above and you are done. It will immediately rule you out of the list. 

So, how should you answer "Why do you want to work here?"

The best way is to tap into what the interviewer wants to hear. 

Its not lying or cheating rather, your answer will be just a well-researched and thought-out answer. Answer it and present yourself in the best possible way.

So the real question is : What does the interviewer want to hear, or know about you and your preparation by asking "Why do you want to work here?", and how to shape your perfect reply. 

Research the company (go out of the box)

Companies want to be flattered, so take the time to do your homework. Gather all information that you can, not only from their website, but from their social media accounts, news, various papers, company blogs, research associates and clients, hiring manager linked in profiles etc. Shape the gathered information to answer the question. 

What to mention:

Now, you have the data about the company. Next is selecting the aspects of the company that interest you. 

What makes them attractive, and can you flatter them more by drawing upon these? 

Lookin deep to draw a parallel line between this company, and companies you’ve worked for in the past or you have desired to work with. Ask your self : 

Do you hold the same values? 

Is the location desirable? 

What type of people work there?

If there are undesirable aspects of the company, how can you turn these into a positive? 

For eg. “For some this industry may be no so enthusiastic, but I’m well-suited to this because…....(put your positive reasons matching to your interest)” and “I was very excited to see that you recently won Excellent Customer Service Award, which I find incredibly admirable. My 3 years in telecom / My Post Graduation in Telecom Management have taught me the true value of excellent customer service, and I believe I would be a valuable asset to the company because of this.”

Research the role

You should have an answer, or explanation, ready for each of the requirements and responsibilities (why you’re suitable, or why you believe you’d do well despite lacking experience), all backed up with evidence. The employer wants to know that you are set on this specific role, and not just the company.

They need to see you oozing passion or interest for the particular type of role, backed up with genuine reasons why it interests you, or it will be interesting to you. Interviewers don’t want to waste their time on candidates who don’t understand the job they’re applying for.

How to shape your answer : 

Your answer should include the aspects of the role that you’ll enjoy, be suitable for, and/or have experience in. All of these must be backed up with evidence.

Have motivations that fit the nature of the job

What sort of person works within this industry? What would a company expect their motivation to be? Research, comb through the job description, and ask others. If within the creative industry, it might be to have your work used on large-scale projects; if within IT consultancy, the chance to liaise with top-end clients, or be promoted; if within sales, the opportunity to make money. Think about the sort of person they want, and how you fit that bill.

How to shape your answer : 

How you would fit into the industry, how your personality aligns with the nature of the job, your previous experiences that prove this, and what your motivations and goals are.

Fit into the company culture

It might be the way you answer their questions, how well you answer, how well you listen, your communication style and many other things. Essentially, they’re using the few occasions in which you both meet to assess the sort of person you are, and whether you’ll fit in with the rest of the company and/or office.

How to shape your answer : 

Why you will fit the company culture (but you need to know what this is, and it’s not always obvious). Mention the people you like to work with (if applicable to who works at the company) or people you haven’t worked with, and that you would like a challenge in order to improve your people skills. More importantly, just be nice, friendly, and above all, yourself.

Be concise, it matters. 

You don’t want to go off on a tangent, or the interviewee will assume you lack the skills to be concise – or you haven’t prepared well enough. Either way, you don’t want to ramble, just like you don’t want to reply with one word answers. A good technique for dressing an answer, used across many industries, is the STAR technique (Situation, Task, Action, Result). Try to adopt this for all the questions you prepare to answer too.

Be enthusiastic

As a fresh graduate, it’s likely you’ll be having less experience of life. Here, interviewers will be expecting you to be energetic; to be excited by the prospect of interviewing, and hopefully working for the company. This isn’t about what you say, but how you say it: avoid monotony by smiling whilst talking, as you are more likely to speak in a positive manner.

Be genuine, its important.

Deep down, the interviewer know that the money is the motivation factor here yet he wants you to be interested in the job and company. Interviewers can pick up on dishonesty, so if your heart isn’t in it, don’t bother trying to lie your way into a job you don’t want. You can also tell if someone has stolen an answer of the internet, especially as an interviewer who is well-versed in candidate answers. Take inspiration from articles like these, and definitely don’t just recite other peoples’ answers.

How to shape your answer : 

If you think they have any questions or reservations about you, your history, or your abilities – mention it. Confront their reservation, then explain how or why you’ll overcome this objection. 

So, your perfect answer to “Why do you want to work here?” should mention:

• Why the company appeals to you, and your reasoning.
• Why the role appeals to you, and why you can do the job.
• How and why the role aligns with your career goals and motivations.
• Why you’ll fit in with the existing colleagues.
• Why their initial reservations won’t actually hold you back.
• And remember: Be concise, be enthusiastic, and be honest.

- Alok Upadhayay 

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5 Body Langages You Must Know About Before Going for Interview

During career counseling program, I have met alot of management graduates, who were curious to know about the body language for interview. Though, there is alot, you must be aware of, but here we will discuss the 5 most important body languages you must know about before going for interview :

1) A Gentle and Firm Handshake : 

 There is nothing good as a gentle and firm handshake for leaving your first impression. A firm handshake represents the authoritative nature. Weak handshake to start off or end the interview will ruin the whole opportunity, avoid it.

Also Read : How to Get Internship at Google

 

 2) Don't Lean Back or Lean Forward Or Cross Hands: 

Leaning back looks you look LAZY, that you would never want to look like in a job interview. Avoid slugging in chair or taking extra support from back of chair. 

At the same time, leaning forward shows extra aggressiveness. Extra can be harmful here. So, just sit naturally straight. 

Also, avoid crossing your hands as it will send a direct message to the interviewer that you are being defensive. 

3) Proper Eye Contact : 

Remember, you can say alot through your eyes. So never avoid eye contact with the interviewer. Yet, you must not stare or look anywhere else on interviewer's face or body while he/she is speaking. Just stay calm and look calmly during the conversation. 

4) Avoid Constant Nodding : 

Being a "Naysayer" is not recommended in the interview but you must remember to not to leave your impression as more of a YES person. Avoid constant nodding on each and every sentence of the interviewer. 

5) Constantly Looking at the Clock or Watch : 

There is no fixed time duration for interview. It can of few minutes to hours depending upon the interviewer. If interview is taking longer duration and you are in little hurry, avoid constantly looking at the clock or peeking to your watch during the conversation. It might make you look like impatience.   

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Personal Interview round -What, Why and How

While the written exam tests the quantitative, reasoning and verbal skills of an applicant, that's not all that a future manager is expected to excel in. In fact, that's just the start! A successful manager should not just be good with his quota of work, but he/ she is expected to contribute as part of a team and lead the team.

A personal interview is aimed at knowing a candidate more intimately – assessing the clarity of thinking process, future goals and the 'fit' with the B-school.

Personal Interview can also turn out to be an opportunity to 'sell' yourself. While intimidating for some MBA-hopefuls, the personal interview represents a prime opportunity. Interviews allow you the chance to not only put a face and personality to the name and credentials on your application file, but also to express your academic, personal, and professional accomplishments, experiences, and intentions.

What does it test?

So what does the personal interview process aim to test? According to Dr JK Mitra, Faculty of Management Studies, University of Delhi, “Personal Interview process might begin with the 'views' expressed during the 'extempore round' (part of process at FMS Delhi) or through a free-wheeling discussion around one's bio-data given in the application form.”

“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 Knowledge questions may also be asked. FMS also gives importance to consistent academic performance as it is indicative of academic discipline and ethos one is required to have to survive in the campus," added Dr. Mitra.  

According to experts, Personal Interview 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 programme, 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.

So be careful about the gates you open, and be very sure you have in-depth knowledge about whatever you mention. For e.g. if you say you have an avid interest in Badminton, be ready for questions pertaining to Prakash Padukone, Deepika Padukone, plastic shuttles v/s feather shuttles, Saina Nehwal etc. It is advisable to brush up 2-3 subjects from your graduation thoroughly if you are a student fresh out of college. Also, contextual knowledge of the environment around you as well as "general knowledge" comes quite handy.

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 oft 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.

Prep Strategy

To be honest, it is not possible to 'prepare' for an interview in a few weeks. Planning for an interview should ideally be a process that should begin as soon as you make up your mind to pursue management education. However, you should use the few weeks and months before the interview to revisit and update your knowledge base, and crystallize your reasoning and thinking process on your career and life goals.

Reading newspapers and keeping updated with all the major happenings does help a lot. Revising the concepts, atleast from courses one liked or did well in, from undergrad in required. Attend mock GD sessions and giving 2-3 mock interviews. Importantly, preparing for GD/PI sessions is a good time to reflect and introspect on what are one's career goals and the reasons why one is opting for management career, and one should make use of this opportunity.

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Tips on Body Language for Personal Interview

Body language plays a major role in your group discussion and personal interview rounds. As you have read in the previous article on MBA Informer about the role of body language. Remember that, your action speaks louder than your words. So be careful before you act as it can destroy the entire game which you had almost won by utilizing your content, multiple entries and leadership skills.

In this article, we talk about the gestures which should be absolutely avoided by you:

1.   Pointing fingers: Pointing fingers generally signify talking in anger and accusing someone with your finger. It exhibits your aggression.

2.   Playing with pen or paper: Playing with pen, paper or just moving your hands shows careless attitude. Whether you remain silent or talk while playing with such objects, it will show your lack of interest.

3.    Stooping/slouching: You should sit straight while in a GD/PI. Don’t stoop or slouch or bend forward. That is an informal posture and is not at all welcomed in GD/PI rounds.

4.    Sitting with crossed arms/legs: When you sit with crossed arms/legs or both, it refers to a closed mindset and a person who is not ready to accept/listen to others’ point of views.

5.    Throwing your hand: Don’t throw your hands in such a manner that it enters your next group member’s space. Every one has their own personal space and entering that disturbs the entire group coherence.

6.    Fidget: You should not keep fidgeting or move uncomfortably in your chair.

7.     Not to be stiff: When it is advised that you should not keep fidgeting, it is also meant that you should not be absolutely stiff in your position. You should be comfortable in your posture.

8.   Scratching, pricking, rubbing: You should not engage your hands in inappropriate activities such as scratching, pricking, rubbing etc. This will again show your lack of interest in the GD/PI and too much obsession with yourself.

9.     Control your facial expressions: Control your facial expression and avoid showing your anger/disgust/frustration reflect on your face. Also don’t smirk, smile or laugh unnecessarily. Don’t make it too stoic.

10.   Moving your legs: Moving legs refer to impatience. If you keep moving your legs, you will communicate that you want to get rid of the GD/PI process. Even if you feel that way, you should control your movements and body language to make yourself appear enthusiastic in the B-School admission process. 

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Tips on Body Language for PI

“Body language is a form of non-verbal communication, consisting of body pose, gestures, and eye movements. Humans send and interpret such signals subconsciously.” - Wikipedia....
It is often said that human communication consists of 93% body language and paralinguistic cues, while only 7% of communication consists of words themselves. Body language may provide clues as to the attitude or state of mind of a person. For example, it may indicate aggression, attentiveness, boredom, relaxed state, pleasure, amusement, besides many other cues.
According to Prof. Ajay Singh, Chairman MDP & Corporate Interaction Committee of IIM Lucknow (Noida Campus), “During the interview your body language is important. You should not be too submissive or too aggressive.”
Dinup Mathew, Director of PT Education Delhi advises: “While speaking maintain eye contact. Maintain proper body language. You should sit in a calm and straight posture with open hands.”
The right body language in front of the interview panelists is an absolute must if you want to turn your dream of pursuing MBA course at a top B-school into reality. We present to you the ways of communicating non-verbally to the panelists that you are the perfect choice for them.
Keep in mind the following 10 key points while you are facing the panelists:
1. Sit upright but not too stiffly in your chair. This indicates that you are comfortable and feeling confident.
2. Relax and lean slightly forward towards your interviewer. This gives the message that you are both interested and involved.
3. If the interviewer is talking and you want to show that you are actively listening, you need to have direct eye contact and maintain it. Don't overdo direct eye contact; too much contact without breaks can make the other person extremely uncomfortable and can be suggestive that you are domineering.
4. Ensure that your voice tone is not apologetic or defensive.
5. Hands on knees will indicate readiness to answer.
6. Show your cool character: Let your hands lie loosely on your lap or place them on the armrests of your chair.
7. Have control on your hand movements at the start of the interview.
8. Stay calm, think before your talk. Do not interrupt the person interviewing you.
9. Establish a comfortable amount of personal space between you and the interviewer. Invading personal space (anything more than 20 inches) could make the interviewer feel uncomfortable and take the focus away from your conversation.
10. Show your enthusiasm by keeping an interested expression. Nod and make positive gestures in moderation to avoid looking like a circus joker.

For more on GD/PI, stay connected to MBA Informer.

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Preparing for GD to Score in MAH CET, Some Tips and Tricks

MAH CET 2011 is over now, and you must be preparing for GD and PI. Here is something for you. In this article you will get to know about the qualities that are measured and judged by the panelists, learn how to exhibit leadership skills, the different types of GD topics, and the ways to generate points during the GD round.


Qualities that count-


Group Discussion is a way by which the B-School panel measures the following qualities in the applicants:
Content: How much knowledge you possess on a specific topic.
Rational thought process: How good is your analytical skills and thought process.
Communication: Both spoken English and non-verbal communication.
Group Behavior: How good is your group dynamics, the way you are interacting with a group and your body language.
Leadership Skills: A leader shall emerge in the GD because of his/her contribution.
Exhibiting leadership skills
Leadership skills are exhibited when the speaker gives certain points in the GD which either moves the GD forward in a new direction or moves it towards a consensus. The leader brings in a fresh approach to a thought process which the group follows.
So we see that content, knowledge and rational thought process are some of the most important requirements to be successful in a GD.
How to generate points?
There are 3 methods to generate points in a GD:
KWA (Key Word Approach)
VAP (View Point of Affected Parties)
SPELT (Social, Political, Economic, Legal, Technology)


Let us try to understand how to use these.


KWA: Say the topic is “Deep Blue is not Blue Enough”. Now we got to take each word and try to understand the significance of it. “Deep Blue” can symbolize the super computer with whom Garry Kasparov had a chess competition. So once you connect the word with the example that’s one point. Now try generalizing further into the debate about artificial intelligence over human intelligence, and say that artificial intelligence is not “ENOUGH”. So we are trying to use the key words in the topic itself to first understand the topic better and then to generate more points.


VAP: Say the topic is “Dowry continues to haunt Indian brides”. So who are the parties involved with this topic: Bride, Bride’s family, Groom, Groom’s family, Society, Media (who shall be make the issue public), NGOs (for supporting the bride), Government & Panchayats (their role in dowry removal), Law enforcers like courts & police. Now each of these parties’ view-points and roles related to the topic becomes a valid point for the GD.


SPELT: Say the topic is “Retail boom spells doom for the local grocer”. So from SPELT way the following points can be generated:
Social: Should we support the small kiranas just on humanitarian grounds?
Political: Role of Government
Economy: Impact on Indian Economy because of Retail & Retail sectors contribution to GDP
Legal: FDI issues, Labor laws, Taxation
Technology: Cold Storage & Supply Chain, Efficient supply and availability will marginalize prices and reduce costs and wastages.
Hence we see that apart from knowledge, the way you are analyzing a topic is important.


GD topics
GD topics are classified under the following categories:
1. Knowledge Intensive Topics
2. Non-Knowledge Intensive topics


Knowledge Intensive topics can be of the following nature:
1. Economic Topics (Example: Liberalization is leading to jobless growth)
2. Social Topics (Example: Dowry continues to haunt Indian brides)
3. Political topics (Example: Reservation issue is just to get a vote bank)
4. Sports/ Media related topics (Example: 1 Billion people, 1 Gold medal: this is with reference to Olympics)
5. Sector based topics like in IT, Telecom, Retail (Example: Retail boom spells doom for the local grocer)


Non-Knowledge Intensive topics can be of the following nature:
6. Concrete topics (Example: Greed is good)
7. Abstract topics (Example: Deep blue is not blue enough)


So start listing down different topics under each areas or check out any GD book and start reading up under each categories.
For Economic related topics look at fundamental concepts like FDI, Stock Markets, Liberalization, Employment scenario, Capital Convertibility, Rupee VS Dollar, Inflation, Export-Import, different kinds of economy in the world, Socialist versus Capitalist, etc. For Sector based topics start making a 1-2 page note on each important sector like IT, ITES, Banking, Insurance, Retail, Telecom, Healthcare, Infrastructure, Power, Agriculture, Logistics & transportation, Nuclear issues etc.
Try to study about what has been happening in each sector in last 1 year, what are the problems, who are the major players, what is the future trend, what are the strengths and weaknesses in each sector.

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GD myths, Qualities Count, Some Interview Tips

The GD PI process at leading Maharashtra B-schools, like JBIMS, Sydenham, Welingkar will be conducted from Tuesday, May 10, 2011 to Tuesday, May 31, 2011.

It’s the beginning of the efforts of MBA Informer community. We are here to help you at each and every stage of your ROAD TO MBA. As all of you know that all the MBA aspirants has to go through a tough selection process of GD {Group Discussion}. Some Institutes also test the abilities of the candidate through Case studies.

All the institutes wish to have the best brains in their institutes. Thus for this purpose the admission processes is divided into two stages. The first stage of this process is entrance test. You have faced this stage already. Institutes conduct GD and PI(Personal Interview) in the second stage. The time period of second stage may vary. For e.g. Most of the institutes which accept CAT score only have conducted there GDs but those colleges which accept MAT score are still calling candidates for GD and PI. CET Maharastra will conduct its GD in month of MAY.

The qualities B-schools look for in candidates and the purpose of holding GD PI

GD PI is a very important aspect for selecting the students as the complete personality of the candidates is reflected through these processes. The expectations from the candidates are determined by industry expectations. These include the technical skills, decision making skills, interpersonal skills and conceptual skills.

Technical skill comes from the education. Decision making ability refers to how you take the decisions in your organization. Conceptual skill is the ability to solve and analyze complex situation and Interpersonal skills is the combined skills of communication, leadership, teamwork and conflict resolution.

Myths associated with a GD

1.  Person speaking the most scores the most: It is not important who speaks the most. What is important is whose points make more sense

2.Person starting the GD is the winner: A person might start the GD with a good point. But that does not make him the leader. He has to keep coming back with equally good points whenever possible.

3. Communication skills are very important:  Only communication skill is not enough as your points should have some substance.

3.Like starting the GD, summarizing the GD is also of great importance: Summing up does not mean that you will have to repeat what others have said. It is checked how differently you present the points from others while summing up.

Case Study GD

Case Study GDs are gaining importance over the years. Several B-schools like IIM Indore, IMI and many others conduct Case Study round of GD. In Case Study GDs, you will be given a certain situation and you have to bring out a solution of that problem or situation…

Approach for dealing with a Case Study GD should be as follows:

Identify the problem – At first you will have to understand what the problem is and exactly which is the area you need to look at. For example, if the case is about a company undergoing a loss, then you will have to review what the reason is. Is it the product or something else?

Give two to three different possibilities - On the basis of the problem, you need to come up with two to three possible solutions that you think will work for the particular situation.

Analyze – After that you need to analyze the pros and cons of the suggestions you have made. Then finalize which one is the most feasible option to approach.

Recommendations – You have to give your recommendations on the basis of the solutions made by you or the other members of the group.

Personal Interview

Some of the common questions during the interview round are on: Introduction about yourself, Why you want to pursue MBA, Your awareness about the subjects you pursued in graduation and General Awareness.

For the question on introducing yourself you should give a brief introduction about yourself. Mention your strengths and achievements, your hobbies and interests. But be careful about your tone. It should not sound over confident or under confident.

The way you carry yourself is also of utmost importance. You should dress formally and comfortably. Remember that you are appearing for an interview and all aspects of your personality will be reviewed.

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B School?? Tools To Find Best For You

An MBA program is your opportunity to push outside of your comfort zone, to learn new skills, develop strong relationships, to grow into a leader.  You will grow the most in an environment that facilitates the way that you learn.  This is very personal, and cannot be captured in a number or ranking driven by statistics and weightings that have been deemed important to others as they may not be important - or as important - to you.   Do your own homework.  Start with yourself and what you hope to gain from an MBA program as well as what factors challenge you to push yourself.  Then gather as much information as you can - online, in person, in print, from the schools themselves, independent sources, alumni, and the like.  Develop your own criteria, and then make a point to visit the programs that rank highest on your list.  Experiencing first-hand the culture of a program through interactions with students, faculty, and staff will solidify to you where you will best "fit" and will challenge yourself to grow the most.

One of the major objectives of MBA Informer community is to spread the awareness among all the MBA aspirants about all the available options for them. Soon the results of MBA entrance tests will be declared and the hunt for B-School will begin as per your scores.

Now question is -

How to select the best program as well as institute for you. This article is to tell you about some of the factors that, as an MBA aspirant , you should consider for, while  searching for the B-School for you.

Additionally, we offer suggestions as to additional points to think about and steps to take when deciding upon which programs you will apply to.

Available Program Types

• Two-Year MBA

• One-Year MBA

• Executive MBA

{ Some Institutes offer Distance Learning MBA with PGDBM(AUTONOMOUS) at the name of Dual MBA, never go for it.}

Explore your MBA Options ( Other then IIMs and other Top MBA Institutes)

• Indian Colleges in North India

•Colleges in South India

• Specific Cities

The Rankings – understand what they are telling you

• Internet

• Business Week

• The Wall Street Journal

• The Education Times

But never go only with the words of these sources as there is a maximum probability of getting biased information.

Formal Channels

• The Internet

• Admissions Offices

• Literature

Informal Channels

• Alumni

• Corporate Recruiters

• Faculty

Research, Planning & Preparation are the Key Elements :-

A good Business schools, no doubt offers an unique learning experience, quality education  to the students that spans all management disciplines including the latest research, theories, practices—and, ultimately, a highly regarded degree recognized across the world. Likewise, business schools recognize the valuable dimension, depth and diversity that international students add to their MBA programs. In fact, the insights and perspectives international students bring to the classroom have become integral to the MBA experience. The result is a mutually beneficial experience that enhances all students’ perspectives of the global business community. And the key to realizing the quality education and door-opening opportunities of an MBA program lies in an intensive research, preparation, and planning process on the part of prospective international students.

Qualities and Goals:-

One of your initial steps in pursuing an MBA should be exploring business schools for program types that match your personal style, educational objectives and career goals. Fortunately, there’s a world of information right at your fingertips, courtesy of the Internet. You’ll want to examine the curriculum and various areas of specialization offered at different business schools, along with each school’s unique culture. Equally important is finding out what kinds of services are available specifically for international students. By exploring Web sites for business schools, you can get a good feel for curriculum and campus life. At the same time, you’ll find a wealth of resources specifically to assist international applicants, ranging from admissions requirements, visa information and immigration issues, to English language classes, support networks, scholarships and loan information. In addition, you’ll want to look at the schools’ event calendars for key dates including the admissions information sessions many business schools host around the world. Such sessions provide excellent opportunities to network and learn more about what the schools have to offer.

The Earlier You Start the Better the Result:-

Business school admission is extremely competitive and the earlier you start preparing the better. In addition to practicing your English language skills, you should also be thinking about your application—and interview—long before you actually apply. For starters, you’ll want to make sure your credentials, academic ability and achievement-oriented experiences align with the requirements of the MBA programs you’re considering.  Admissions directors will expect you to effectively position, differentiate and sell yourself in terms of your leadership potential, interpersonal skills and the overall value you will bring to the program.

Your Budget, Be Prepared for it:-

Also keep in mind all the expenses you need to make for your MBA. Its not less than any investment. So be concerned about it. Make a proper planning. If want to go for education loan, check all the available options as well as be careful about all the terms and conditions of banks. Also check all your available funds to make the payments at the time of admission.

You should plan to make contact with those business schools you’re interested in about one year before you intend to apply. This gives you plenty of time to find out each school’s requirements and ensure all required exams  (including TOEFL and the Graduate Management Admission Test [GMAT]) are completed well ahead of their deadlines. With that said, ample preparation for the GMAT is essential. While the GMAT addresses skills that have theoretically been developed over years of schooling and work experience, you can still sharpen your skills by strengthening your foundations and taking practice tests to highlight those areas requiring additional focus.

In the End

The payoff to your comprehensive research, program consideration and preparation, financial aid assessment, and application submission, however, is a comprehensive global experience that will embrace you in a collaborative community, challenge you to reach new heights, forever widen your scope of the world and provide insights that will guide you throughout your business career.

Geographical location and career goals, these are two important points to consider for  all the candidates looking towards MBAs.  Although, there are many programs which have a global focus,  regional knowledge may certainly be enhanced through the location of a Business School and will influence availability of opportunities including field trips, industry speakers, management projects and internships as well.   International exchange is one avenue students might look at to gain exposure to a new geographic region and to strengthen international networks.  While making decisions related to B-School for yourself, you should also assess fit between the School and your career goals.  Looking at diversity amongst the student body, on-campus recruiters and placement data can help candidates do this. You can use the opportunities of GD and personal Interviews to talk with other aspirants, current students and alumni about their experiences.  Lastly, exploring where future opportunities are likely to lie can be extremely important.

Source: {Research Work}

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Some Possible Topics For GD In B-Schools For Admissions In 2011

1. How the stock market works
2. Social issues - education, taxation, social programs, income distribution
3. The foreign exchange rate, liquidity, basic economic theory
4. The role of technology in business
5. India's case for a permanent seat on the security council of UN
6. The Sri Lankan Peace Process
7. Doctors' Accountability to Improve Health-Care
8. Universal Disarmament is a Must
9. Is India Aping the Western Obsession with Celebrities?
10. Exit Options for the US from Iraq
11. Illegal Bangladeshi Immigrants in India
12. Are Live-in Relationships better than Marriage?
13. Should Guys Expect their Educated Wives to be Virgins?
14. India at 60: A Senior Citizen?
15. Unrest in Countries around India
16. The environment - whose responsibility is it?
17. How will the introduction of hedge funds and the liberalization of foreign exchange controls impact our market?
18. Should Animals be used for Testing New Drugs & Medical Procedures?
19. Do NGOs in India Really Work for Others OR Work for their Own Vested Interests?
20. Security Cameras & Privacy
21. Advertisements Cheat People, Hence Should Be Banned
22. Borderless World: A Threat?
23. Basic political theory and ideologies such as capitalism (Adam Smith), communism (Marx), socialism, democracy, egalitarianism, libertarianism, etc.
24. India's 5-Year Plans
25. Advertising - fairness, company responsibility, unbiased information
26. The Indian space programme orkplace
27. The preservation of heritage, culture or customs
28. The "brain drain"
29. Foreign exchange rates, convertibility, currencies and per capita incomes
30. How banking works; common banking terms
31. The global economic scenario
32. Current politics of India
33. Computers result in unemployment.
34. E-Commerce the best thing for India.
35. Know how the stock market works - bonds, investment, etc.
36. Scandals such as Enron, Worldcomm, Arthur Andersen and the Sarbanes-Oxley Act.
37. The pros and cons of globalization
38. Emerging communication technologies
39. Derivatives trading
40. The India-US Nuclear deal - is it beneficial or not?
41. Principles of political theories, pros and cons of each ideology, how the most important governments function
42. Currencies and per capita incomes
43. Economic reforms in India
44. The advancement of women's rights is the basis for social development.
45. Do you agree or disagree with these statements? Think about the arguments for or against them.
46. Globalization is good.
47. Corruption is the main outcome of democracy in India. NGOs (Non-governmental organizations) such as the United Nations are ineffective.
48. An India free of the caste system is simply a pipe dream.
49. Is materialism good or bad?
50. Is the agrarian economy in India a boon or a bane?
51. What is the role of ethics in industries such as tobacco, gambling and liquor?
52. Should India aspire to be a nuclear superpower?
53. Advertising is a form of brainwashing.
54. What do you think of this firm's (one that is in the news) decision to go public?
55. Is identity more important than policy?
56. Greed is good - it is an essential human quality.
57. Is China a threat to the Indian economy?
58. Democracy has hampered India's progress.
59. History repeats itself.
60. Is management education really necessary to succeed in business?
61. The ends justify the means.
62. Should the concept of arrange marriage still exist?
63. Men and women will always be unequal in the workplace.
64. Is Indian bureaucracy the basis of a government's foundation, or simply a poor leftover from colonial times?
65. Is war with Pakistan inevitable?
66. Borderless World: A Myth or Reality?
67. Secularism has become a Tool to Justify the Wrongs done by the Minorities
68. What is the Difference between People who do Things Rightly and People who do Right Things?
69. Corruption is a Necessary Evil for Success in Any Sphere,
70. Beauty Pageants are a Must.
71. How to Deal with International Terrorism?
72. Are Peace and Non-Violence Outdated Concepts?
73. Indian Army as a Career Option
74. Capital Punishment should be Banned or Allowed?
75. Is Dependence on Computers a Good Thing?
76. Is India a Soft Nation?
77. Should Research on Human Cloning be banned?
78. Should Sting Operations be Carried Out?
79. How safe is Unmarried Fairer Sex?
80. Conditional Access System for Cable TV Watchers: Boon or Bane?
81. Nuclear War cannot be won and should not be fought
82. Is Swapping Terrorists for Hostages an Encouragement to Plane-Hijackers?
83. Brain-Drain has to be stopped
84. Flexi Timings or Fixed Timings - Which is better at Work?
85. Individual Brilliance Certainly makes a Difference
86. Is Paperless Office a Reality or Not?
87. Rules & Regulation Breed Corruption
88. Rivers are our natural resource. All states have equal rights on them
89. Gender issues in society and in the workplace
90. The emancipation of women
91. The effects of globalization and trade on the world and in India
92. Problems which plague developing nations
93. Immigration

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