If you are preparing for an MBA interview, there are a few things you can do to increase your chances of success. Here are some tips to help you prepare:
Be clear about why you want to do an MBA: It is essential to be clear and sure about why you want to do an MBA. This is probably the single most crucial question during an interview. Because during stressful interviews, the panelist will try to make you believe that you don't need an MBA either because you are overqualified, underqualified, or just irrelevant to the course. It is essential that you can put forward what is your mind through your mouth in front of the panel. Write this answer and practice it multiple times. Answering this question in an essay in written format versus answering it in a LIVE interview would be a completely different experience. Prepare for cross questions yourself by imagining yourself in the seat of the panelist and prepare answers to those questions so you don't panic during an interview
Read, re-read and absorb the application you have submitted: It is essential to be thorough with your application. Oftentimes, I have seen that candidates forget what they have written in the application or aren't aware of it. Interviewers are experts in identifying the points from your application that you might have neglected and can stress you on that. It is essential to be selective of every point, achievement, or work you mention in the application. For example, if you have written that you won a science project in your school, there are chances that the interviewer will go deep on that and try to put you under pressure. If you have written big words or jargon, they may try to bury you under multiple cross-questions. For each small point you mention in your resume or application, you must be prepared for cross-questions about it.
Research the program and the school thoroughly: Be sure to familiarize yourself with the program and the school to which you are applying. This will help you understand the program's strengths and weaknesses, as well as the values and culture of the school. This information will be helpful to in answering questions during your interview because often times the panelist asks about the courses you are interested in. This information will also tie in nicely with your WHY MBA question because you will be able to explain why you are a good fit for the school.
Understand the interview format: Most MBA interviews are conducted in a one-on-one format, but some schools may use a panel format or even a group interview. It's important to understand the format of the interview so you can prepare appropriately. Alums usually try to stress you by going in detail into your application. Some Interviews are conducted mostly by professors, while some Interviews are conducted by Alums. Sometimes Professors and Alums both form the panel. Also, you should note that sometimes all interviewers may ask questions simultaneously to put you in stress as you won't be able to complete your answer to one question. Sometimes they ask one by one.
Practice answering common MBA interview questions: A few common questions are often asked in MBA interviews. These include questions about your career goals, your motivation for an MBA, and your strengths and weaknesses. Practice answering these questions out loud so you can feel more comfortable and confident during the interview. Stand in front of a mirror and see yourself answering the questions. It may feel awkward at the beginning, but slowly, you will learn to control your body language and will eventually get better. Ask your friend, colleague or spouse to take your practice and ask cross-questions. This brings in various perspectives and makes you comfortable talking to different kinds of people with different thought processes.
Consider using the STAR method to answer questions: The STAR method is a helpful tool for organizing your thoughts and answering behavioral questions. It involves describing the Situation or Task, the Action you took, and the Results of your action. Using this method can help you provide clear and concise answers to questions about your past experiences.
Dress professionally and arrive early: First impressions are important, so be sure to dress professionally for your interview and arrive early to allow yourself time to relax and mentally prepare. Dressing well increases confidence. Don't wear something totally new or fresh for the interview. Wear something that you know you are comfortable in and have already wore before so you don't face any surprises.
By following these tips, you can increase your chances of success in your MBA interview. Good luck!
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