C Group Discussions and Personal Interviews are two of the most defining aspects of your
MBA/PGDM interviews. This is the stage where not just your academics will be evaluated,
but also your communication skills, leadership qualities, and decision-making abilities. These
attributes can leave a mark far more impressively before the panel, provided you prepare in
advance with a plan of action. Just a few simple and practical tips can really help you stand
out.
Understand the GD Format
A group discussion is an abstract or current topical issue. Your job here is to express views
on the subject through healthy discussion. You will do well to practice clear and concise
speech, keeping your thoughts structured.
Tip: Keep updated on what is trending, like AI, global economics, or social issues. Read
newspapers or follow news apps.
Develop Effective Communication Skills
Keep your voice clear and maintain confidence, and always have respect for others. Do not
cut people off, rather build on their ideas or counter their points politely.
Example: "Social media affects mental health in a negative way." Then you could add
something like, "This is all true, but we cannot overlook how the media has been a source of
awareness and change."
Body Language Matters
Use of non-verbal cues can sway your performance. Sit straight with an upright posture and
maintain eye contact. Use ordinary hand gestures to make your point more defined.
Calmness is the biggest assertiveness in confidence.
Add Value to the Discussion
Never repeat points and neither should one get too aggressive to support their point.
Instead, present with facts, insight, or some kind of quote. That just shows how well you can
think critically and shows a little more depth in you.
Tip: Use examples from your life or those from the real world. If the topic is "Sustainable
Development" then you have to mention some specific government initiatives or any case
study.
Be a Good Listener
Listen actively to make a point. Listen to everybody's point of view, acknowledge that
opinion, and add your viewpoint. By doing so, it becomes apparent that you are a team
player in favor of collaboration.
Excelling in Personal Interviews (PI)
An interview is your chance to bring out your personality, to demonstrate your strengths as
well as your career aspirations. Here are ways of creating a good impression:
Know Yourself
Prepare the answers to basic questions like:
- Why do you want to do an MBA or a PGDM?
- What do you consider as your strengths and weaknesses?
- Where do you see yourself in five years?
Be honest, be self-reflective, and match the answers with your career aspirations.
For example, when talking about weaknesses, state something constructive, saying, "I used
to have trouble with public speaking, but I have been working on it through debates and
presentations within the college."
Research the College and Program
Know the key features of the program you are applying for and why it fits into your
aspirations.
For example, mentioning the strong relation of the B-school to the industry, its placement
record, or any of the clubs according to your interest when you're going for an interview.
Stay Updated on Current Affairs
Current events and business trends are often topics during interviews. Prepare for Panel
Interview (PI) by reading newspapers and business blogs, or you could watch news
channels.
Tip: If you are asked to discuss a subject like India’s start-up ecosystem, you must touch on
the recent developments, government schemes, or successful startups.
Highlight Your Achievements
Talk about internships, projects, leadership roles, or any extracurricular activities related to
your skills. Relate them with your qualities of teamwork, problem-solving, or adaptability.
For example: "At XYZ, during my internship, I helped improve the workflow of my team
considerably by establishing a simple task-tracking system which increased the efficiency by
twenty percent."
Dress and Behave Professionally
Look neat and dressed. A formal dress with a smile gives an edge to the personality.
Final Thoughts
To tackle GD-PI, you must be smart, confident, and genuine. Use these sessions to
showcase your ideas, talents, and what you will contribute to the B-school community.Institutions like JIMS Rohini focus on holistic assessments so that each and every deserving
candidate receives an equal opportunity to shine.