CAT interview preparation tips

The first challenge is to pass the CAT exam. Candidates must pass the second step of the B-Schools evaluation procedure if they have achieved the requisite cut off marks (Written Ability Test, Group Discussion, Case Discussion, Personal Interview, Extempore, etc,.) The Personal Interview is the last step in the majority of B-Schools’ admissions process.

The purpose of the interview is to evaluate the candidates’ level of mental clarity, their long-term objectives, and their suitability for the B-school.

Even if you believe you have prepared well, many people find that going on a personal interview is an extremely stressful and perplexing process. With the CAT personal interview, you are aware that how well you do will have an impact on your future.

Keep in mind that the interviewing team wants to choose you, not pass you by. Before attending an interview, you should be aware of the following Dos and Don’ts:

Dos:

Make a strong case for why you want to get an MBA.
Every candidate must answer the question of why an MBA is necessary. Make sure you are ready for this question in advance. Why is the most common interview question about the MBA?

You’re Assignment

Such such as “Why do you want to attend our Institute?” will be asked to you. What are your plans for the future? What long-term objectives do you have? etc. Prepare a solid response to each one. So, to be ready for the interview, arm yourself in advance with all the crucial and typical MBA interview questions.

Examine your resume.

Give a thorough explanation of the abilities and professional experience you have stated in your CV. Always be ready to answer inquiries about your prior employment.

No one can foretell the questions that a candidate may encounter in the CAT personal interview, even months of preparation. The setting of the personal interview is ideal for evaluating a candidate’s interpersonal and communication abilities.

carry the appropriate paperwork to the interview

Copies of your resume, your grade reports (grades 10, 11, 12, and graduation), your ID, and your letters of recommendation (if any)

Be familiar with the CV’s contents and ensure that it is comprehensive, appealing, and easy to read.
Should be able to respond to inquiries not covered by the CV

Be well-groomed and aware of appropriate interview attire

The right body language should be used.
Maintain an optimistic outlook

Give the appropriate response when necessary.

helps provide unconventional responses and dazzle the panel with spontaneity. It also helps to lighten the mood.

Be a leader and pay attention.

possess well-thought-out responses to inquiries like “Tell me about yourself”

Prepare your approaches to dealing with the panelist in advance.

Never lose faith in yourself.
If you know part of the answer to the question, trust your gut.

be knowledgeable about academics (for new students) and job experience (working professionals)

Be knowledgeable on current commercial, economic, tax, and international competitiveness problems.

Speaking and listening abilities are frequently evaluated

Have a thorough understanding of the query and give a detailed response.

Avoid bluffing and speak in a respectful manner

Enter the interview with more self-assurance.

Don’t move around, think optimistically, and look at the panel.

Keep your composure and cool.

Follow the most recent events happening across the world (current affairs)
Every day, read the papers and periodicals pertaining to business.

Put an end to your deceit. Keep this in mind at all times since trying to deceive the interviewers by telling the truth is a complete waste of time. You’ll be revealed in one of the questions. Therefore, always be honest with them, even if it’s something bad. The panel that is seated in front of you values your candor.

Be careful not to use obscure or extremely technical terms during interviews. Using good language makes a good first impression, but overusing it may lead to unpleasant situations. Additionally, this gives off the appearance that you are a braggart.

Donts:

Lie or beguile the interviewer
Don’t assume that the panelists seated there will blithely accept anything in the CV. They are there because they are intelligent.

Be brief.

Make an effort to strike up a discussion and elicit a tale based on your prior encounters. Try to begin the conversation by discussing your advantages and disadvantages, using concrete examples from your successes or failures in the past.

continue to contradict

Never attempt to refute anything you said during the group discussion earlier.

Speak positively or negatively about any other institution.

Try to discuss balances. When responding to inquiries of this nature, exercise extreme tact.

To summarize,

Research the company and the role you are applying for: Understand the company’s culture, products, services, and mission. Be familiar with the role you are applying for and how it fits into the company’s overall strategy.

Get prepared to respond to typical interview questions: Become comfortable responding to basic interview inquiries like “Why are you interested in this role?” and “What are your strengths and weaknesses?”

Prepare examples of your experience and achievements: Have specific examples of your experience and achievements ready to share with the interviewer. Be prepared to share how your skills and experience align with the role you are applying for.

Be ready to ask questions: Prepare a list of questions to ask the interviewer about the company, the role, and the team you’ll be working with.

Dress professionally: Dress in a way that is appropriate for the role and the company culture.

Be on time: Plan to arrive 10-15 minutes early for the interview.

Show enthusiasm: Show your enthusiasm for the role and the company.

Be truthful: Be truthful and open when describing your background and experience.

Follow up: Send a thank-you note or email after the interview to reiterate your interest in the role and thank the interviewer for their time.

The personal interview is the final link in the chain between applicants and business schools, making it the most crucial stage of the hiring process. It is a good idea to think on one’s professional objectives and the reasons for choosing a management job when preparing for GD/PI sessions. In the personal interview stage, tricky questions are a typical occurrence, and applicants are expected to respond to them with assurance, reasoning, and ease.