An engineering graduate, a commerce graduate and an individual with some work experience all walk into an MBA interview for admission. No, this is not the beginning of a joke. It is actually a description of most people who apply for admission to MBA programs. Candidates tend to get terrified at the idea of answering the interview questions. These questions are supposed to be extremely difficult and unyielding. Well, one of the most important aspects of an MBA personal interview is the value you can bring to the industry. In a nutshell, it’s all about you! Read on to know what to focus on during your interview, whatever your background.
The Graduate’s Perspective
Here we offer some tips to all those applying for MBA programs. These are applicable for freshers from both engineering and commerce streams:
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The Commerce Graduate – More than just Numbers:
If you have a brand new degree in the field of commerce, aiming for an MBA is natural. The first and foremost thing for you to consider is your knowledge base. It must be solid at both, the macro and micro levels. We’re not talking about economics here, rather the overall applications of your field. You should know how to put your knowledge into action.
On the other hand, you must also be aware of issues and aspects outside your comfort zone of commerce. For instance, the understanding of basic IT structures and languages is certainly a plus point. In fact, the same applies to knowledge of current events. Business administration is based on how thoroughly aware you are of each and every aspect and situation related to your business, the industry and the economy in general. Hence, a reflection of that in your answers would be beneficial for you.
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The Engineering Graduate – Engineer an Impressive Persona:
For those of you who are worried about how to present yourself differently in front of the panel – don’t be. It’s not the uniqueness in you that they are looking for, it’s the uniqueness of your approach. Most engineers end up with only thorough knowledge of their subject; it is important for you to look beyond just that, as suggested to the commerce graduates. On the other hand, you also have technical knowledge that you can use in order to gain favour as a candidate. This thorough grasp of your subject is what can make you seem impressive. Most individuals tend to learn things by heart just to pass the exams. If you have the ability to understand every single facet of your subject, you shall certainly stand out.
What makes you different?
Experience Counts – The Experienced Candidate’s Viewpoint
You might at some point consider that pursuing an MBA program might not be the right idea, perhaps because you would end up being relatively older than those who haven’t worked anywhere before joining. However, it goes without saying that you have the advantage of experience. You can use this experience to recount genuine examples and scenarios where certain management principles had to be applied. As the panelists are aware of your profile, they will most certainly focus on the learnings from your experience. Be ready to answer why you are looking for a management program, especially when applying for an executive MBA.
As an executive MBA candidate, then, you should be fully aware of your own abilities and capacity. The interviewers will expect you to know how different organizations function, and how they could function better. Hence, the MBA interview questions are likely to be somewhat retrospective in nature. It is advisable to prepare for them accordingly
Some Praqtical Tips for All Candidates:
An MBA personal interview is not a trial by fire; while we do not deny that it is difficult, if you keep certain things in mind, you should be able to get through successfully.
Introspection is the Key to Success
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Think before you speak:
As goes with any interview, you need to think, strategize and only then answer any of the interview questions aimed at you. Analyse the question itself, what it seeks to find out about you – whether it is your knowledge, your skill level or emotional quotient, etc. Then address the superficial content of the question – what does it ask – does it relate to your subject, your previous experience or something else entirely. Finally, you formulate an answer by putting these two together and expressing the same.
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Be Straightforward:
While it is always great to ensure that the panellists do not find you wanting in any way, it is also important that you are honest with them; if you do not know the answer to something, say so. If you do, make sure to give direct answers, rather than beating around the bush.
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Introspective SWOT:
Carry out a task that will be a precursor to what you will learn in your MBA program – a SWOT analysis. Basically, work out your Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats as a person. Introspective understanding scores really high in MBA personal interviews; it strengthens your claim of being an objective and analytical individual.
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Don’t Lose Confidence:
If you slip up, accept it and move on to the next question asked. Do not worry too much about what it looked like when you slipped up, as it could cause you trouble concentrating on future questions as well.
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Be Humble:
The panellists are always looking for people who have their head screwed on right; basically, they want individuals who are not only objective about themselves and the world, but are aware that they are unique, but so is every other person on the planet, and the only thing that sets them apart from the rest are their personal experiences and approach. Overconfidence never helps, nor does an air of arrogance or superiority, especially if it is compensating for lack of knowledge or skill. While it’s important not to undersell yourself, showing too much confidence in your abilities will not do you any good.
All in all, there are a few things you need to make sure you consider while dealing with interviews for MBA courses. First of all, remember that MBA interview questions are not meant to torture you; they are meant to test your mettle as an individual. However, the most important point is to ensure that you present only yourself while facing that panel. It’s always about the candidates who are comfortable with themselves, are honest and humble and consistently learning from their mistakes.
What is your approach towards interviews? Can you share any words of wisdom? Please tell us in the comments.
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