How should I go about with the preparation for IIM Bangalore interview?

Here are some useful tips which will help you prepare for IIM Bangalore interview. 

Preparation tips- 

• Read as much as you can. Keep a regular check on current affairs, cross-country relations, the latest business trends and market, and sports. You are expected to have your own opinions and solutions regarding various issues of the world.
• Read newspapers, Finance magazines, watch news and discussion-based programs to stay updated. 
• You must know everything about the degree and institute. This way, you will be ready to answer questions like ‘Why MBA?’, and ‘What do you know about IIMB?’.
• Try to attend mock PIs. Most MBA coaching institutes have GD/PI sessions. They offer practice sessions, tips on handling questions, and personal feedback. 

Know in detail about - 

• Know yourself well. This will help you answer basic questions about your strength, weakness, likes, dislikes, habits, hobbies, goals, etc. 
• You will be asked questions about your background. So, you must know details about your residence & native place, school & college, place of work, etc. 

Do’s for interview - 

• Before going for the interview, make sure that you are dressed properly. Your appearance should be neat and professional. 
• Your etiquette, courtesy, and grooming will be under strict scrutiny. So, carry yourself well. 
• Try to appear as witty and confident but don’t overdo it.
• Keep your portfolio organized. Make sure your certificates, Marksheets, and Accolades are arranged chronologically and neatly. This will convey the notion that you are well-organized and serious about your candidature. 

Admit your weakness - 

During the interview, if you don’t know an answer to a question, admit it, rather than guessing. 

Don’ts for the interview - 

• It’s natural to be nervous, but don’t make it obvious. Also, don’t be overconfident.
• Don’t boast about your academic record or test score.
• Try not to drag on a particular point. If the interviewer wants to elaborate on something, they will ask you. 
• Don’t appear as someone who is only interested in the placement. 

Steering your interview - 

The way you handle questions during interview can steer the conversation in your desired direction. While answering a question, try to make an impression that can prompt the interviewers to ask you the next question. This lead can be about some educational achievement, a project in which you have shown leadership skills, or a subject of which you have in-depth knowledge. But this should be done subtly. 

These tips will help you to achieve a smooth experience at IIM Bangalore interview. 

Some of my friends are IIM Bangalore students. Here are their tips on interview preparation.

• In the interview, there will be questions regarding your academic background, any job or internship that you have done. So, prepare accordingly.
• They may also ask about your thought regarding the institute and why you want to pursue your degree from there.
• If you are discussing a problem, then try to give a roundabout solution for it. 

You should be well prepared for basic questions. For example, if you answer - ‘Tell us something about yourself.’ in an interesting way, you will have a good chance to drive the interview in your desired direction.