Manager
Joined: 19 Jan 2017
Affiliations: Admission Consultant
Posts: 53
Given Kudos: 0
Crack that ISB Interview!
[#permalink]
30 Jan 2017, 22:34
Now that the second round application process of ISB is done with, hundreds of applicants wait with bated breath to face the next round of the screening process, the interview.
When students ask us on how they should prepare for ISB interviews, we suggest that they maintain their originality and put forth their persona without a facade. Though this is a clichéd recommendation for most interviews, we cannot stress more on its importance for the ISB interview. With applications from almost all possible streams, ISB admission committee is faced with an unenviable task of choosing the cohort from thousands of extremely good applicants. Therefore the key to making an impact is to maintain the originality of your application and therefore during the interview stay true to your application and hold your ground on your beliefs.To give you an example during my own interview, I was questioned on why I need an MBA wherein a PMP program would suffice my requirements from a career standpoint. Now the key is to back your stand with facts and state what you believe is true.
The admission committee sometimes throws in some guess estimate questions in there so it's best to atleast know how those work. However from a preparation perspective, the most important aspect is to be thorough with your profile. If there are any gaps in your profile, do prepare on how you will handle questions around those. Also, thoroughly know the projects that you have done - have the numbers at your fingertips. For example, if you have worked on a consulting assignment, know what was the impact in dollar terms. Also be ready to do some back of the envelope calculations then and there.
The best way to handle the 'Why MBA' question is to question yourself on how an MBA fits into your life. Understand that an MBA is a long term investment and is likely to impact your life significantly, therefore the admission committee is keen to know whether you are ready for this or not. Also they want to understand why an MBA fits your profile right now. For example, if you are running a successful startup why suddenly do you now plan to pursue an MBA and make a ~ 30 Lac investment, how does it make business sense.
The best way to prepare however is to take mock interviews with candidates who have been through this process and will be most suited to simulate the actual interview.
Do you have an ISB interview call and want to make sure that you put your best foot forward? Let Taterways Admission Consulting help! Both of our co-founders got admits to ISB, Hyderabad and are equipped to give you a real sense of the interview.