Preparing for IIM-IPM's Personal Interview round: Dos and Don'ts
Preparing for IIM-IPM's Personal Interview round: Dos and Don'ts
Published on: 11th July, 2023 | 12:25 PM
The Personal Interview (PI) round is an essential component of the selection process for the Integrated Program in Management (IPMAT) at IIM Indore, IIM Rohtak, and IIM Ranchi. PI aims to evaluate a candidate's communication skills, articulation skills, and presence of mind. In this blog, we will discuss some crucial dos and don'ts to help you excel in the PI round of IPMAT.
Dos
> Research the program and mentors: Familiarize yourself with the program curriculum, faculty, and the institute's values/projects you are interested in/projects that are significant. This will help you demonstrate your interest and enthusiasm during the interview.
> Know about yourself: Reflect on your strengths, weaknesses, achievements, and experiences. Make sure to have an example for every characteristic you mention.
> Stay updated with current affairs and business news: Keep yourself well-informed about the latest happenings in the business world. This will help you engage in thoughtful discussions during the interview and showcase your awareness of the industry.
> Prepare answers for commonly asked questions: Research and practice responding to commonly asked interview questions such as "Why do you want to pursue the IIM-IPM program?" or "Tell us about a challenging situation you faced and how you overcame it." This will ensure that you can provide clear, concise, and impressive responses.
> Be authentic and confident: Be true to yourself and let your personality shine through during the interview. Emphasize your unique qualities, skills, and experiences. Be confident in your abilities and express yourself with clarity and conviction.
Don’ts
> Don't be late: Punctuality is crucial for making a good impression. Plan your journey in advance and ensure you arrive at the interview venue well ahead of time.
> Avoid memorizing structured responses: While preparing for the interview, it is essential to have a structure for your answers but avoid sounding rehearsed. Respond naturally, using your own words and personal experiences, but also ensure you cover more points in lesser time.
> Don't underestimate the importance of body language: Pay attention to your body language during the interview. Maintain good eye contact, sit upright, and use appropriate hand gestures. Avoid fidgeting or slouching as it might convey nervousness or lack of confidence.
> Avoid negative talk about previous experiences / sharing biased opinions: When discussing any past challenges or setbacks, focus on the positive aspects and the lessons learned. Avoid blaming others or dwelling on negativity as it may create a negative impression.
> Groom and rest well before your PI: Dress appropriately for the interview, considering the professional nature of the program. Pay attention to your body language and freshness, and ensure you have all your documents ready.
Remember, the interview is an opportunity for the panel to get to know you better. Be yourself, stay calm, and use these dos and don'ts to present yourself in the best possible light during the IIM-IPM personal interview round.
All the best!
Team CL