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This is a compilation of 57 ISB Co2013 R1 interviews from PG forum as well as from some of the excel sheets that are floating around. Those of are short of time can either read the tag cloud on the cover page or read pages 6 to 10. We need a favour from you. Once you complete you interviews, please share your experience in PG as well as in this simple form - http://goo.gl/FIW6W. Both bricks and roses are welcome! PM us for our addresses.
CREDITS TO PUYS
Data extract & compilation sausi007 Hyderabad city guide rockstarsv, retrosat & reconadi Interview Tips atouchofcrypticthunder & thisguy Interview Experience fellow puys Data analytics, editing & packaging saads1999
Both highlighted stops can get you to ISB (Thanks to rockstarsv for the detailed info provided below ) Route from hitech city bus stop: HT City--10-15 mins(straight, depending on signal)----> Kothaguda(taking left turn)---10 mins---> Gachibowli Jn(taking right turn----2-3 mins------>IIIT/JNTU college junction(taking left turn)---------2 mins-------> Ultimate destiny(ISB gate) Route from Medhipattnam bus stop(armed force gate): Armed force gate--------2 mins---> medhipattnam Jn----10-12 mins(straight)---> Tolichowki-----15 mins(straight, without any signal)------> Gachbowli Jn----2-3 mins(straight)---> IIIT/JNTU college jn(taking left)-----2 mins---- > ultimate destiny(ISB gate) Thanks to retrosat for the following info: Let me do my bit for those attending interviews. I hail from Hyderabad and stay close to the ISB. I have hence used all the possible means of transport to reach AROUND ISB. The ISB is around 1 km away from the Old Bombay highway and the point where old Bombay highway meets the ISB road is called the IIIT-Crossroad (also the IDBI crossroad). If you reach this point, then ISB is easily accessible. For those who are flying to Hyderabad for the interview, the quickest possible way to reach ISB is to catch the Silparamam Aero express and get down at Gachibowli Cross roads (two bus stops before the IIIT crossroads). From Gachibowli, ISB is about 2 kms away and Auto rickshaws are the most convenient modes. RESTAURANTS AND PUBS AROUND ISB a. The Red Bean (R) b. Grasshopper (R) c. Grills 'N' Steaks (R) d. Lounge (P) e. Pavilion (P)
By train, you need to get down at Secunderabad and reach Gachibowli. There are direct city bused (10w) to reach ISB. 10u takes you to IIIT Crossroad. Another fast means of trasnport is the MMTS train to Lingampalli which you catch at Sec'bad and alight at the Hafizpet station. From Hafizpet, IIIT Crossroad is about 8 kms. Autorickshaws are the most convenient mode from Hafizpet. Hafizpet connects with Hyderabad station as well. MMTS trains from Hyderabad to Lingampalli stop at Hafizpet station. From the Hyderabad rly station, you can also use the 216/216u/217/217D number buses to reach IIIT crossroad. (#3516) thanks to reconadi If you want to go to ISB directly from airport, you can take the bus from Airport to Hitech city. Ask the driver to stop at Gachibowli junction ( end of outer ring road). Thats the nearest point to ISB. You can take an auto from there to ISB ( which is around 5-6 KMS from there). If the autowallah doesnt know where ISB is, tell him to take you to infosys, manikonda. ISB is right opposite infosys.
R2 applicants: After your ISB interview pls share your exp in PG and in this form - http://goo.gl/FIW6W
INTERVIEW TIPS
(#350) thanks to Roshan aka atouchofcrypticthunder A prospect recently asked me for interview advice - please find my thoughts below. A few quick pointers for your interview prep: Practice Practice Practice - there is no substitute for that Go through your application with a fine tooth comb - make sure you read every line in your application and hypothesize what questions could be asked Be very confident and ready for your Why MBA? Why ISB? Why Now? answers - they will not ask you these questions directly but indirectly so be sharp and smart to catch them Prepare extensively for your post MBA goals both short and long term - research in-depth about the fields you have mentioned in your applications. You should know exactly what you want to do and know exactly how you are going to get there - ensure that you also have a backup plan if you cannot achieve your goal Start reading up your current affairs - know whats happening in the world...The Syria issue, the afghan issue - whats happening in the US - in India..It pays to know such information Ensure that you know the ins and outs of your hobbies..if there are technicalities to it make sure you know them...if it is photography you like - you should know the parts of a camera well and have an opinion on them Be opinionated and support your opinions with valid proof this will help you through your interview. Act confident, speak clearly and use good diction, do not fumble - if you must take a second or two to collect your thoughts. Don't blabber on and on - be as succinct as possible Dress for success
Some more tips by roshan, (#2970): High-level questions about yourself: Questions such as Tell me about yourself, Walk me through your resume, How would your friends/coworkers/supervisor describe you?, What are your strengths and weaknesses Questions about why you want to go to business school and future goals: Questions include: Why do you think now is the time for you to go back to school?, Why do you want to come to this school?, Where else are you applying?, Where do you see yourself in 10 years?, What do you hope to learn in business school?, What do you think you will contribute that will be unique among your classmates? Questions about specific experiences in your background Use the STAR format to explain all your experiences. If you want to know what STAR is please go through this forum I have already explained it in previous posts.
R2 applicants: After your ISB interview pls share your exp in PG and in this form - http://goo.gl/FIW6W
ISB Co2013 R1 Debriefs Build your own elevator pitch and practice it till you know it by heart. The key, however, is to ensure that it doesn't seem rehearsed and practiced. If it flows like a normal dialog and seems matter of fact then you know you have the right pitch. At the end of the interview, prepare and ask a couple good questions. Good questions dont have answers that you could have gotten from the schools Website or brochure. If you are interviewing with an alum or a student, asking about his/her experience is always a good place to start. Send a Thank You note out to your interviewers as soon as you are done with the interview. Rule of thumb is that the mail should be sent before the end of the day. Practice, Practice, Practice - Practice with a friend. This should be done both with a friend who is already an MBA and a few non-MBA but experienced friends.
My additional tip: It is advisable to wear a Business Suit with a Tie for the interview, not just a blazer and tie.
(#3760) by thisguy Interview preparation 1. After submission do not wait for invite to come to start the preparation. Assume that you will get interview invite and start the preparation. 2. Go through your essays and profile with a fine comb. Any number of times is not enough. Try to find out question to every line of essay. 3. Prepare answers and start reading them every day. Reading aloud will help. Stand in front of mirror and repeat the answers making sure you have eye contact with your reflection. This will help you understand how much effort is needed to make proper eye contact. Eye contact is necessary in interview. Eye contact shows your confidence. 4. Prepare flash cards and start reading them everywhere. 5. If possible think about the questions and answers every time you are free. On interview day 1. Have a light breakfast. Stick to tried and tested breakfast. Do not try Sushi on interview day. 2. Avoid having coffee or tea. Tea/coffee increase thirst and metabolism resulting in more water intake and trips to restroom. 3. Chocolates help in calming tension but tend to melt when stored in pockets, so be careful. 4. Reach interview venue in advance. Mail tells to reach venue one hour in advance. I suggest you reach 1 and half to 2 hours in advance. 5. Think about good things. Think about questions and answers. 6. Talk to guys around you. Usually there is pin drop silence even between 7-8 persons in interview venue. Try to break that and have a chit chat. It will calm you. Do not discuss profile as if the other person has better profile than you then it will increase your anxiety. 7. Be prepared 10-15 minutes before interview. Panel will call you if they are running early 8. The panel mentioned in mail need not be your panel on interview date so while signing the sheet find out your panel number and ask/look around to find out where they are sitting. 9. Do not smoke before interview. The smells is off putting to some. 10. Do not chew gum during interview
R2 applicants: After your ISB interview pls share your exp in PG and in this form - http://goo.gl/FIW6W
R2 applicants: After your ISB interview pls share your exp in PG and in this form - http://goo.gl/FIW6W
R2 applicants: After your ISB interview pls share your exp in PG and in this form - http://goo.gl/FIW6W
ISB Co2013 R1 Debriefs What questions were asked in the ISB interview? We created 20 main buckets for questions. While analyzing the raw data we have put the questions asked to candidates in one of the 20 defined buckets. Questions on Current Job Profile, Goals and Application Essays are all time favorites of ISB interview panel.
R2 applicants: After your ISB interview pls share your exp in PG and in this form - http://goo.gl/FIW6W
R2 applicants: After your ISB interview pls share your exp in PG and in this form - http://goo.gl/FIW6W
R2 applicants: After your ISB interview pls share your exp in PG and in this form - http://goo.gl/FIW6W
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5. 3 questions about future plans [what exactly is it that you're planning to do post-MBA] My crappy responses led to more questions. 6. Any questions for us? [ I had two]. All in all, a massive disappointment - I think I had a lot to say and at times didn't sequence or 'bulletify' the information well -and I hope they don't penalize me for my stupidity.
my 2 cents: they are generally more concerned about ur job profile n ur application.. so concentrate on that.. u shud try to not give generic answeres.. now i know a person who has a gmat score of 780 works for kpmg, US.. and still has been rejected twice by isb.. and a film producer with a score of 590 made it thru.. also a monk from japan got selected...hence its not ur profile alone tht matters.. its also the presentation... be honest about ur profile about ur aspirations n u shud be fine....
3. SPEEDYSINGH
I had my interview on 2nd in hyderabad. Both the interviewers were alumni. One interviewer drove the entire interview and the other had a stern look on his face the entire time. Questions were only related to hobbies and job profile. Example achievements, key-learning, conflicts. I wasn't grilled but they weren't smiling either. The interview lasted for 30 minutes.
R2 applicants: After your ISB interview pls share your exp in PG and in this form - http://goo.gl/FIW6W
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4. PUNISHER
The panel consisted of 2 people. As per my guess, both were adcom guys or 1 adcom and 1 professor. The interview was solely based on what I had written in my profile and the questions were all from my application. Regular questions like why MBA? why ISB etc were not asked. The interview lasted 35-40 minutes. I was probed on just my application and there were no guesstimate questions or other such stuff as discussed on any of the forums. One regular question that was asked to me was : Tell us 3 reasons why should we take you? They bordered on grilling and stress interview.... The older guy asked nothing but about books I read...and movies ...the younger was so concerned about the minor MY INTERVIEW TIP details of my job profile that he forgot to ask me much about my Be thorough with your profile Entrepreneurship experience....even when in-fact I displayed my future goals in my Venture and not in the professional field that I am currently in and application. ... surprise-surprise....and no questions about Why MBA...Why ISB...etc
So, just one advice, be thoroughly prepared with what you write in your application.
5. DAFFYME
I had my interview on 2nd October. The panel consisted of 3 alums- 2 guys and a girl. Again like others have said, they were very poker faced. Actually no.. one guy looked like he will sleep if I spoke one more word :( Anyway they asked me only about my work. Of the achievements I had written of in my essays they asked me to quote 3 points how I added value to that project. I dont think the interview went for very long. Mostly 15 mins or so.
6. NITHINP
I had my interview today.. There were no why MBA, consulting, ISB.. or any regular questions.. It was purely based on my essays.. and since i am from IT background, they did ask me on technology.. There was no element of stress at all.. And I gathered from another candidate who went to a different panel that the interviews were cool there also.. So I guess most feel that the interview went on well.. In a way, it is good because you can be at your best when the panel is not intimidating
7. NJZ
Had mine yesterday afternoon. Was done and dusted before I knew it. Questions were based on my career moves and my future goals. The wait for the results has begun for me! All the best for those awaiting interview calls!
8. TKSINGH
I had my interview this weekend. It started with essay on 1 word. (50 -100 words). Interview was quite short around 15 mins. Simple questions on - What you do ? How you manage your work? Some questions on achievements and Goal essay. It wasn't intimidating at all. Quite friendly atmosphere.
R2 applicants: After your ISB interview pls share your exp in PG and in this form - http://goo.gl/FIW6W
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9. HORUS
Had my interview this weekend.. first the usual one word essay.. 100 words. Then the interview was based mostly on job and functions. career goals etc. It was only 20 mins... They started off by asking about the company where I work and my role and responsibilities.. it was a detailed discussion about the kind of products, customer base, value proposition etc.. Next they asked my last years performance and the factors that led to it. Next were the questions about the future in the job if I continue.. in fact one of the interviewer asked me to sell bottled water to the other guy... Lot of discussion happened about my future plans and what i want to do if i graduate from ISB. In between some questions about my school days... very brief.. Fact based. all in all it wrapped up before i know it... took at max 20 mins..
Key takeways Its a very chill and cool interview. More of a discussion and they just intend to know you, rather than grill you. So, dont get nervous or fret about this aspect too much. Be yourself. Regarding work related questions, just answer what you do rather than what the firm or team does etc. Make it very clear. All questions from your profile only, nothing outside IMPORTANT: If there is anything important you plan to say or convey in the interview, just say it in between somehow. Don't wait for them to cross-question you or delve deeper into something. Just link it to your current answer it say it, don't wait!
Interview Tip: While explaining a situation from ones experience use STAR format to present. STAR is Situation, Tasks, Actions and Results. One can use the same format while writing essays also. You need to practice using STAR format a couple of time before using in the real interview.
R2 applicants: After your ISB interview pls share your exp in PG and in this form - http://goo.gl/FIW6W
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R2 applicants: After your ISB interview pls share your exp in PG and in this form - http://goo.gl/FIW6W
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R2 applicants: After your ISB interview pls share your exp in PG and in this form - http://goo.gl/FIW6W
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15. SATYAKAM83
Had mine scheduled at 10:50, started at around 11:40. The panelists meant business from the word GO. No introductions, whats your current job profile and all those standard MBA questions. They straightaway jumped into my goals essay and cornered me on SCM (thats what i had said i had worked on earlier). They did not go into what i had worked on but asked me to explain via a case study, what should be a perfect implementation model. Although the beginning was a bit unnervy, went better after that. Few tips 1) As Mangoman said, be prepared to wait, so i ll advise not to reach MY INTERVIEW TIP there too early. Target reaching maybe just 10-15 mins prior to the 1 hr One should know challenges in deadline. The wait is really stressful ones industry or domain 2) Be aware of the challenges in your industry or your specialization and believe me, they know it all 3) Be ready to analyze cases which you d never expect you'd be asked 4) The panelists are pretty cordial, they ll make you feel at home but please dont try to be smart with them, you ll be caught red-handed
And the wait continued. There were some reshuffle in the panels and the panelist who had earlier spoken to me said that he is now in a different panel and the new panel 4 would shortly call me. Finally at just after 2 I was called in. Panelist apologized for keeping me waiting for so long. And asked me to hand over my one page essay. As soon as I did that the first question was asked by P1. P1 - What were the three things you were thinking while waiting outside (answered it). (This is all I remember. What happened for next 40 mins is tough to write as I hardly remember the flow- but will try to give overall experience) Following questions were asked 1.Asked about seasonal sales cycle of my field and how to overcome it 2.Couple of questions of market need for our products. 3.Selling in your field is so tough what is your solution for this problem 4.3-4 questions related to our product 5.Questions on why mba and from isb, when I can invest the same amount in my company (this went on for a long time ) 6. questions on the challenges that I might face in future while running the company etc etc. 7. questions related to books that I read and why I find my favorite personality so special. Then finally discussion on the question that I asked them. I actually lost track of time when I was inside. The interviewers were very friendly and well informed. My advice to other candidates - be candid, be honest. I stayed on the campus till 7 in the evening, met few students, got to know more about their experience on the campus. So overall, it was a good day for me.
R2 applicants: After your ISB interview pls share your exp in PG and in this form - http://goo.gl/FIW6W
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17. NISHANT402
I had my i/v on Sunday some excerpts , though not in order: 3 ppl in panel 1 prof , 1 lady(no clue about her) , 1 alum .After discussing about my friend in ISB they started the questions directly. 1) How did you feel about studying in ISB with people much junior than you (9 years) 2) Why don't you try 1 ye executive MBA. 3) Tell us 2 learning from your experience 4) Define a good team ? Example also. 5) Which is difficult to handle personality clashes or competency clashes ? Example also. 2-3 questions around it. 6) In last 2-3 years you have done lots of charity work ? Why ? explain.asked to explain 1-2 such instances. 7) What is Strategic business transformation ? Explain with scenario . 2-3 questions around it. Difference between you and other IT professionals ? 9) Trends in Automobile sales . given some random answer though i told i have no clue but this insisted to take a shot. 10 ) What will you achieve being an entrepreneur ? I said job creation and satisfaction? 11) Only job creation . I replied yep the rest of the things will follow but initially it is job creation coz it is the need of the hour . 12) Another question about my achievement why the project was critical? 13 ) Why are you with CG for this long and then answered on their own may b you are liking your work ? I asked 2 questions related to Scholarship and ISB's thin 8+ exp professional count overall . It is over in 25 mnts. They were at times nodding head but most of time probing my responses which is kinda surprising given that I have read few i/v experiences on PG which suggest they do not counter much. Anyway the discussion was nice though i could have done better much better nywy.. I am delighted with my exp there.
18. JARINWALLAH
Interviewed a couple of hours back..with Kannan and two other guys - alumni. Before I went in I was given a sheet to write on 'anomaly', which i wrapped up in 15 minutes flat..then spent next hour or so blabbering with other candidates - getting over jittery nerves . Surprisingly i was only IT candidate. Interview was cool, kind of conversational one that I've heard of so far. No grilling tactics or surprises like case studies. In retrospect I could have done a lot better, but I guess that'll always be the case. Still it was below par, which makes the equation for an IIM all the more unbalanced. All questions were pretty standard one: 1. describe 1 on my achievement. what were challenges? This went on for quite a while, as they crossquestioned a lot, not grilling types, but just trying to understand what i did. 2. post-mba goals - both short terms and long terms. they simply asked 'what' and i volunteered with 'why'. 3. how would i rate myself on team skills? i have given them an impression that i worked as one-manteam in quite autonomous way. 4. how did you resolve any conflict in team? One problem that i faced was taking what i did in IT field to non-IT people. One adcom, who was the most attentive one, was probably from tech area..but not sure. So, my finger crossed and all the best to to-be-interviewed!
R2 applicants: After your ISB interview pls share your exp in PG and in this form - http://goo.gl/FIW6W
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20. NIKHIL_AG
Just had my interview. It was the telephonic interview (international location) and it lasted 19 mins. Seemed like they were in a hurry. They started of with tell me what division of the company you work in and what kind clients you cater to and what is your role in that. what are the levels of CMMi. (I had mentioned CMMi somewhere). help me understand what you want to do immediately after your MBA. why do you want to do an mba, dont you think experience alone will get you in that position in 4-5 years from now? your'e not trying to emulate someone's career are you? are you ready to do an MBA right now? not from the designation perspective but do you personally feel that this is the right time for you to do an MBA? when and how did you realize that you wanted to do an MBA. what are your long term goals 10-15 years. stumped me by with this one "lets change the game take and all this IT out of the picture.. what do you want to do generally after an MBA.. how do you think you will help clients.. what aspect of consulting intrigues you the most (i kept talking about coming back to IT after MBA so i guess i was inviting this ) asked me about my hobby and why i enjoy it.. asked me some questions specific to my hobby asked me if i had any questions. i wouldnt be impressed with my responses. all the best to the rest of you.
Q1 Why MBA Q2 Ques. from essay (abt achievements?) Q3 asked abt what whole incident and what steps did i take to solve to prob? Q4 Asked abt 1 more professional achievement, from the application form. Q5 questions from essay 1 and 2 Q6 They said why do i need MBA when i m doig already good Q7 Any questions from us? And that is all...20 mins duration...
ISB FACT Since its inception in 2001, ISB received highest number of applications in 2011 for Co2013. Expect tighter competition!
R2 applicants: After your ISB interview pls share your exp in PG and in this form - http://goo.gl/FIW6W
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22. SKYRON
Just done with the interview. Went about ok. It was via skype. The panel had two alumni. 1. Started with basic introductions, who they were and who I was. 2. Then straight into my job profile and what is it that I do. 3. Explain what is the current project you are working, size of the team I work with, how would you define success in your team. 4. Where exactly do you want to be after 5 years, and if you don't get admitted to ISB, how much time will it take you to get there. What are the roles for technical growth in your company. 5. I had written about a student organization I was leading in college. Asked details on that and what effect it had on college, events we undertook, main goals. 6. Any questions I had? Asked about tie-ups with various companies that ISB has, why they don't have any admission events in the middle east and do they have an active alumni network in the middle east. Overall, the interview was pretty chilled, no direct questions like why mba/ISB. Mostly it was about my essays and work profile. Oh, one more thing, the voice quality on skype/phone was pretty bad and it kept echoing all the time. I told them in the end that I was pausing every so often just because of these issues, and they said they understood that there are technical issues while doing phone/skype interviews and won't hold them against me.
23. MANISH_2387
Just done with my ISB interview today, To be honest it was not as planned, since I was expecting lot from my past achievements but Adcom took a U turn and asked mostly about my future aspirations. I strongly recommend all candidates out there to be really strong in what you want to do in future. Overall, I was very much comfortable during the course of interview and I believe that Adcom was very supportive to make you realize that it is just a normal discussion. My hopes are still alive and if I get it I will be back on this post,
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26. SOMFRODO
Had my interview yesterday. Two gentlemen from the adcom were in the interview panel. Place : Kolkata Duration : 30 min Started with standard reapp questions - what went wrong last time? What all did you do to improve it etc. Then they started profile specific questions on my job role, achievements etc. There were some crossquestioning. Moved to goals questions and wanted to know more specifics about it and why it can't be achieved otherwise. Then they asked me some questions on my interests and activities I'd mentioned in the essays. Overall it was more of a casual discussion; now the wait begins for 15th.
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29. KAPS12
Had a telephonic interview at 11.30 PM my time..skype dint work. Dint go well for me..just for 20 mins and interviewer dint sound happy Interviewer was ok not the cordial kinds. He was looking to know why i wanted to go to VC industry. Here are the questions Why MBA? Why now? Why do you want to be in VC Industry? Do you need an MBA for that? What have you done for getting into VC industry? - Screwed the answer here. He kept on asking more and more and i blurted something that was stupid Describe your Achievement .. 1 question on that What do you do besides work? Case Study - Take a startup and anayze it analytically to decide on funding .. Fooled around without giving him any clear answer He asked me again and i gave him some points and he ws like ok thanks The other guy stopped and asked for a question .. My 2 cents - Be prepared with essays. Dont fool around, better to say no than do something u will regret a lot later. Feels so bad that 20 mins can screw u so badly..
R2 applicants: After your ISB interview pls share your exp in PG and in this form - http://goo.gl/FIW6W
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30. ASHISH091985
I did my i/v on 16th Oct. On the spot essay "empathy", 50-100 words.. Then a long wait.. i/v was scheduled for 2.40pm but started at 3.45 pm. A panel of 2... only introduction was exchange of names.. so i dnt kno if they were alums/ad com/faculty.. 1. It lasted 30-35 mins 2. Started with questions about my job profile - simple discussion on what I do and have done so far 3. Discussion on Career Goal? This discussion got linked to why I need MBA and why ISB and why its the right time for me?.. 4. Contingency to MBA.... and then contingency to ISB ?.. where else am I applying ? 5. Last question about job achievements ? .. Which i explained in details. Overall, no pressure... just easy going discussion... (similar to a lot of people's i/v). Finally, one question I want to ask ISB.... Overall, nothing outside the scope of essays and work ex...!! The panel was quite friendly.
31. NITINKH86
Just got done with my i/v a few hours back. Panel comprised of 1 adcom and 2 alums. They started off with my work and continued on that for a good 10-12 minutes. Contrary to my expectation, they did not seem interested in my achievements/challenges/learning etc. The entire discussion was on the nature of the project (not sure what to make of this!!) ISB FACT Some questions around the skills required for my future goal. Opinion on Selectivity ratio is 9:5:1 - for Manesar trade union stand off (whooo wonder where that came from!!) every 9 applicants, 5 are interviewed and 1 gets final A case study that lasted for around 7-8 minutes (think i handled this quite admit. well) Overall the Adcom member looked a quite disinterested. Was busy fiddling with his phone and showing something on his phone to one of the Alums (lol). Infact, the two even walked out in the middle of the i/v for a couple of minutes. Wonder if all this was a deliberate ploy ;-) So kinda weird i/v experience, left me with a dissatisfied feeling. Felt the more interesting aspects of my work/personality were not even talked about in the interview (maybe they were already convinced or disinterested. hoping for the former )
32. ICEDEEPEYES
Had my i/v today morning....it was a good discussion...LAsted for around 30 min....both the interviewers were ISB alums....none tried to build a stressful situation for me.....here are the questions asked... 1) when did you arrive at hyd...where are you staying... 2) describe your job and responsibilities...(a lot of discussion on this) 3) recent work you did in past two weeks... 4) did you interact with ISB alums in your company... 5) why has your boss not written your reco 6) why are you targeting so specific area for your career 7) which companies will you target.. 8) why did you prefer contemporary over semi classical dance. 9) any situation where you showed out of the box thinking. 10) one more such situation 11) Why ISB if same thing you can get with your current qualification. 12) any question for us. WHAT IS THE SIZE OF SHAVING RAZORS MARKET IN BANGALORE? a. Total population = 8 mn b. Males 50% of (a) = 4 mn c. > 18 years 50% of (b) = 2 mn d. Answer = 2mn * 13 = 26 mn Assumptions I. A person changes razor once in 4 weeks. So 52/4 = 13 razors required per person/year
R2 applicants: After your ISB interview pls share your exp in PG and in this form - http://goo.gl/FIW6W
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33. SUBRATA.DASS
Had the interview at around 2:10 Pm Panel of 3 members .....one guy from ISB (Karthik) and the other two being Alumni (Forgot the names ) Anyway ........... I reached two hours before interview and there were two people waiting for their chance of interview .........I waited and waited for 2 hours .....around 2 o clock I was given an essay to write (Topic= Exaggeration)...I was thinking on exaggerating on that and was half way ...when I was called in ....said that I have not finished my essay yet and was told that it does not matter , you can finish your essay later and give it to us Interview started Alum1=X Karthik=K and Alum 2 =Y K : Tell us what you do at work Me : (Thinking , what no intro ok here goes ) blah blah blah , something about a white paper K: So u say that ur whitepaper was about an existing Oracle Database feature so why did u write it then Me : Blah Blah Blah Y: What do you think about cloud computing Me : Blah Blah blah X: So you think Oracle and the other companies are trying to move into service space Me : Blah blah blah Y: Can you tell me if Oracle is hiring or is it looking for any acquisition Me : Told them that Oracle is trying to recruit 3200 people in India in the next one year and that since Oracle has just finished with takeover of Java hence may not be looking for new acquisition Y: Any particular company Oracle can acquire Me : Blah blah K: Question from essay 1 Me : Blah blah blah X: Where were you based when you were in this project Me : Texas near Dallas (in my nervousness forgot the name Arlington which was the name of the place where I had gone K: Some cross questioning on achievement Me: Blah blah blah K: What do you want to do right after u get out of ISB Me : Management consultancy K: Any particular company Me: Since my brother works in BCG it will be nice to get in there ....also getting in ISB is only the first step to get into such a company since these companies have very strict recruitment procedures Y: So you think only studying and topping the class will get u into management consultancy Me : Blah blah ...nothing like that ...blah blah ...extracurrics ....blah blah ...I was this and that ....blah blah ...quizzing .....blah blah was secy of college grp blah blah....well rounded personality needed .....blah blah blah K to X : You want to ask anything X : No K : Any questions for us Me : (In my mind .....ho gaya ???? itni jaldi ......no question on extra currics ????) ....blah blah blah ...question on scholarship K: Blah blah blah Me: Thank u ..... Came out .....finished the essay ......submitted it and came back Interview Tip: If you feel your interview duration is really short (< 15 minutes) then you may use this final question from ISB panel (Any Questions for ISB?) to be on the hot seat for some more time. One should keep 1 or 2 questions ready. You can use the questions if situation demands so! More time on hot seat means more data points for the interview panelist to make decision about your profile.
R2 applicants: After your ISB interview pls share your exp in PG and in this form - http://goo.gl/FIW6W
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R2 applicants: After your ISB interview pls share your exp in PG and in this form - http://goo.gl/FIW6W
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35. PHATPHISH
I had my interview at ISB yesterday. The interview was scheduled at 10:50am but was actually called in at around 12noon. The panel consisted of three alumni. Q1: Tell us about your current work? Q2: What made you move from your first job to the second job? Q3: Seems like a lot of job changes. What made you move from your second job to your third job? Q4: What did you do in your previous job? Q5: A question about my salary in my previous job. Q6: Tell us about an experience where you had to manage a conflict in your team? MY INTERVIEW TIP Be very opinionated and stick to your opinions.
Q7: Tell us about an experience when you had a nightmarish experience when you started the company India in your previous job. Q8: How was the experience working in the middle east? Q9: What were the discussions that you had with the person X? (I had mentioned that I got some inspiration to work in my target industry through discussions with an ISB alum working in my target field and they were classmates). Q10: Why do you want to get into your target sector? Q11: More discussion on my target sector. Q12: Why do you need an MBA? You seem to be learning a lot even otherwise. Q13: What do you think are going to be the game changers in your target industry? Q14: Why is ISB the right place ? Why not X? Q15: Tell us about this non-profit that you have been running? Any questions for us. Over all, I think I did fairly well and felt satisfied when I came out. Maybe my answers could have been structured slightly better. But I guess it is better to sound instantaneous rather than over-practiced. My 2 cents: Be very opinionated and stick to your opinions. Don't look at the whole thing as a Q&A interrogation. But rather look at it as a discussion where the other party is try to learn more about you. Don't wait for them to ask certain questions to bring out the good qualities in your application. I think the one thing that I did very well is that I brought out each and every aspect of the application and discussed it irrespective of whether they asked the question about that or not(without really digressing, of course). Overall, I think it went on for about 40-45mins. Good luck to you all !!! Interview Tip: Most guesstimate/sizing questions starts with an estimated size of population. So it is a good idea to know the approximate population of your country, state and city. You can assume number of males and females to be equal. Refer page 34 for population details of major cities of India.
R2 applicants: After your ISB interview pls share your exp in PG and in this form - http://goo.gl/FIW6W
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36. DONTWORRY2011
Got interviewed yesterday, was made to wait for 2.5 hrs, my panel was running late. IT Consulting, Bangalore, 2-3 yrs work ex Was asked to write 100 words on "Marathon" Interview went as follows: ->General Intro ->They were not convinced on my social service bit, asked to explain on that -> asked about my work, what I do, detailed explanation -> case study where I was the client and a big MNC approaches me to implement enterprise solutions(role reversal, I work in IT consulting for BI solutions) ->asked about hobbies, what all i read.. I told them about Fortune at Bottom of pyramid(asked to explain whats so special, explain a case study from that) ->they questioned me about my 2nd achivement(did I do pre-sales work etc) ->future aspirations, target industry etc... -> Asked why should they take me (2-3yrs work) when people with 8-9 yrs exp are applying(answered with work I did in the past, could help them with organizing events etc.). grilled further that they have enough such people etc, why more.. BLAH BLAH BLAH Lasted about 25-30 mins. ->In the end asked me about music influences(I play the guitar), if I was going to the Metallica concert(hell yeah!!) Was a bit nervous, cant deny that.. Drank water twice during the interview, throat was drying up Will hope for the best and wait till 15th ... All the best to guys who have their interviews next week.. Checked the register at the gate, around 32-33 guys get interviewed on weekends. 4-5 on weekdays. Guy in interview area handing out the essay topic told me that around 2000 people are called for the interview in Round 1 for approx 40-50% of the seats.
37. MBANEXT2012
did with my Delhi interview today. 1 adcom and 2 alums 1 AL - R u a number guy (I am a CA) 2 AL - Tell us about ur current work 2 AL - U changed job almost every year .. why is that ( Expecting that one right at the time of application) 1 AD - U deal with you international clients. U have a meeting with them, what 3 things would u tell them about their expectation and 3 things u expect from them. 2 AL - Why MBA 1 AD - U have interest in M&A - Tell us three recent deals 1 AD - Do u follow the action (in M&A) 1 AD - Which companies are u targeting 2 AL - How would u convince them 1 AD - Case study - A company is planning to setup a power plant in orissa. How would u help it raising the capital. 2 AL - How would u add to the diversity of ISB. 1 AL - We meet in 2021, what would be the situation then ! I think there were few more .. but don't remember clearly. Overall it well kinda average .. did fumble a bit ( two case study/ situation oriented question foxed me !!) Hoping I have a bigger smile on 15th of next month!
R2 applicants: After your ISB interview pls share your exp in PG and in this form - http://goo.gl/FIW6W
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R2 applicants: After your ISB interview pls share your exp in PG and in this form - http://goo.gl/FIW6W
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ISB Co2013 R1 Debriefs 8. How long have you been in the US? 9. Why ISB? Why not a US b-school, since you're already established there and have all the companies you're looking for there? 10. (This followed in response to my earlier answer...) After you graduate from ISB, if you're given a job with the highest pay in (z profile in the US), and a job with (x profile in India - my short term goal), are you saying that you'll prefer the latter? (I told them that I couldn't say offhand with just this parameter; I would have to look at many other parameters before I could deliver a verdict on my choice, but pay definitely matters) 11. What if you're offered a job in your current company? Won't they be willing to take you back. (I said they'd be delighted to take me back and I'm not averse to such an option, but I couldn't say for sure) 12. What's your favorite movie? 13. How do you keep abreast of current affairs and events? (Google Reader!) 14. So have they selected a Republican candidate? (Seemed to me like a trick question, the Republican candidacy hopefuls are furiously campaigning to get selected) 15. So what's the 9-9-9 plan? What do you know about it? 16. Let's hear some news that happened yesterday. (Gaddafi died, Indian stock market crashed, some banter about USD-INR which us folks generally keep track of <wink wink>) 17. What about today's news? (I just woke up, gimme a break!) 18. That's it from us, any questions you have for us? (We were just about reaching the half hour mark, and they decided to end it right about then. I asked them a couple of questions, they gave me the answers, and everything was wrapped up in the next 2-3 minutes) I'm sure there were a couple more questions here and there. I can't seem to recall them right now, but will add them to this post if/when I do. Overall: It seemed like a stress interview with more cross-questioning than I had expected. (They even asked me to prove that I read the news, for crying out loud!) Not sure what exactly their perception of me was, but I hope I didn't ding it, interview-wise. Nov 15th is not far away, fingers crossed until then. Hope this post helps you puys. Edit: Forgot to mention - as we were bidding goodbye to each other, a fourth person - an elderly gentleman - made his way across the camera. I guess he was there the entire duration of the interview as a silent observer. He was probably there to take notes on my general behavior on screen. P.S. This fourth man reminded me of "The Third Man" (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0041959/). And that reminded me of the favorite movie question. (Answer's here - http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0111161/)
R2 applicants: After your ISB interview pls share your exp in PG and in this form - http://goo.gl/FIW6W
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39. NAADAANBAALAK
Finally the interview day arrived and I reached ISB for the interview.I was given a word 'sacrosanct' for writing the essay.The sad part - I didnt knew the meaning of it :P But the creativity was the only thing that helped in the situation. After an hour I was called for the interview. The panel comprised of 2 men and 1 lady (Dont know if they are from Adcom or alum, introduced only with names). The shower of questions started straight away. 1. You applied last year. Did you seek feedback on your application? Me: No. I didnt...(sudenly next question, didnt get time to explain) 2. Why didnt you seek feedback? Me: Because so and so and so and so... 3. 4 things that you would get in ISB, if selected? Me: first one this..second one.... (Interviewer interrupts - But you can get this outside also, by so and so) Yes Sir, thats true but in ISB this is also there and that makes this right place. (Interviewer - Good! ) Second, third, fourth... This question was similar to why ISB (specific) and why MBA (in general). So the answer has numerous points (not limited to 4). For eg industry interaction, world class faculty, case study based learning, surrounding of top brains, networking, interaction with industry leaders, diversity in classroom... etc etc.. 4. You want to go in business development. Why do you need MBA for that? There are people without MBA and working in BD. Me: Thats right sir but number of such successes is very less as compared to MBA stories...example so and so.. hence this and that. (this time 'fine' ) TOP 5 QUESTIONS FROM ISB INTERVIEW PANEL 1. Current Job profiles (85%) 5. How has your profile changed since your last 2. Short term goals (56%) application? 3. Questions for ISB (49%) Me: Explained as written in app. 4. Why MBA? (33%) 5. Why MBA Now? /Why ISB? (22%) 6. What work you do in your organization? Me: Answered as prepared. Percentage calculated based on the interviews 7. Who is your client? experience shared by candidates of Co2013 R1. Me: X 8. What is the revenue of the organization and how many people are employed? Me: I dont know but I can guess based upon my knowledge of similar organizations. (Interviewer - go ahead) So and so based on this and that of Y company that I have worked with. 9. What are the figures for Y? Me: Answered. 9. How are you unique and why should we select you? There are number of applicants having similar profile? Me: I work this..blah blah... and hence different from other candidates. 10. Any other person in your position will do this. If he/she doesnt then its inefficiency of him/her. Me: Thats correct sir.. infact inefficiency of others are our opportunity... blah blah.. (one more 'fine' ) 11. Any questions for us.. Me: No..
R2 applicants: After your ISB interview pls share your exp in PG and in this form - http://goo.gl/FIW6W
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R2 applicants: After your ISB interview pls share your exp in PG and in this form - http://goo.gl/FIW6W
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42. EMIN3M
I got interviewed today as well in Delhi; I think my experience was on the similar lines as all of you. Stress + not the usual stuff and very particular q.s about the work profile. somethings that I had never imagined, were asked in the interview. Spontaneity beda paar karegi ya nahi, yeh toh waqt he batayega In my panel, all 3 were alums and seemed young (<30) ... good or bad for me.. 15th nov will tell
R2 applicants: After your ISB interview pls share your exp in PG and in this form - http://goo.gl/FIW6W
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f.
5. One of the alums asked me about one of specific projects from the evaluations Wasn't difficult either 6. Next they asked me whether i knew about the manner of allocation of electives at ISB.. Didn't know...so i told them that. They then told me the process in brief and asked my view on that. Specifically wanted to know the shortcomings that i could think of. 7. A couple of questions related to work again 8. Future goals Told that straight from the essay. 9. Asked me why I wanted to be a manager. Told them that I'm good at PR. 10. Why do u think u r good with people? Is it because of your speaking skills? No. Its because I'm a good listener. 11. A few other work related questions 12. Have you an idea of what electives are offered at ISB? Wasn't aware..and told them that. Said I needed more prep but couldn't do it because of work pressures. Said I had time till Aprill 2012, so that shud work...:-D 13. What if ISB doesn't have an elective that you want? I said its not possible. And even if it so happens, there's always the exchange program. 14. Any questions for us? I asked what student life at ISB is like? they told me about the hectic schedules but also that its super-exciting. On the whole, an easy-going interview. Went off decently well. Predominantly focused on my work, so was comparatively smooth sailing. Now keeping my fingers crossed for the D-Day!!!
R2 applicants: After your ISB interview pls share your exp in PG and in this form - http://goo.gl/FIW6W
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45. MAVENIK
Just cant sleep. So I thought at least I can help fellow applicants. Jus had my interview. Interviewers were Chakrapani and Naveen. 30 min interview.. Went as follows: Q1: How did Icontribute to the success of my company? Q2: One of the interviewers had worked on Semi-active vehicular suspension. Asked me how I thought it worked. Sort of related to my work. Q3: Why ISB? Q4: Why MBA? Q5: Why not in the US? Q6: How will you contribute to the ppl here. There might be chartered accountants, etc. Q7: Any Questions? Asked them how many case studies are pertaining to Indian businesses as opposed to non-Indian. One of them said my answer was vague to Q6. Overall, I felt that they were not convinced as to why I wanted to come back and get and MBA.
46. GMATGMAT40
Just finished with my interview : Total time : 18min. intl / 710 / 5 years total /semiconductor Started with introduction, what you did in this project, why don't you grow in your field, why MBA, what do you do in your pass time, any example of you resolving conflicts within your team, any question for us. Sometimes I was fluent in my answers, sometimes I goofed up. Overall I think it went like a flash. Does it happen with everyone : that you feel "Oh,I could have said this or that for that question ??
R2 applicants: After your ISB interview pls share your exp in PG and in this form - http://goo.gl/FIW6W
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R2 applicants: After your ISB interview pls share your exp in PG and in this form - http://goo.gl/FIW6W
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M: Any other sector you are looking at apart from Construction post MBA A : No.. M: But MBA is not just about project management..infact we don't have a infra related course.. A :told about the upcoming center at Mohali and as it going to be fuctional in 2014,would want to be part of the team that establishes it as I can give an insider perspective on that.. L : yes yes you are correct.. L : So do you have any questions for us A : Asked Then the bomber M : before I answer your question , I have a point to make,I think you should reconsider doing an MBA A : Tld him that I respect his opinion ...Another round of 10 mins discussion on why PMP is not sufficient (Not Classroom program etc etc..).. Lasted almost 45-50 minutes. Can't make much out of the last 10 minutes. Hope it helps..feedback from fellow pgs can settle some nerves.
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50. VKB001
I have been a silent spectator of this forum for over a month now. Wanted to share my thoughts about ISB and the interview experience. I have been invited for an interview in Oct and it was not a good experience. Mainly for two reasons, that were totally out of my control. (1) I was the last to be interviewed that day (last on the list bearing candidates' names). I was allotted a panel and was waiting for them to call me. The interview process was one hour behind schedule. I was startled to see my panel members leave with suitcases (they were alumni who wanted to catch a flight back). I was then allotted a different panel which was then running 1.5 hrs behind schedule. (2) I was the last one. Everyone else either left or were already in the interview rooms for over 15 mins. Eventually, I was called in. I could sense the panel members' rushing to get done with the interview. They asked me about my work and my pay (the answer to which raised their eye-brows and they thought I was lying). Two questions done and they moved on to asking me puzzles!!! I felt I was sitting in Microsoft's interview. I was approaching the solution but was put another question. I wasn't given the time to even think. They were like hungry wolves waiting for words to drop off my mouth. No sooner had I answered (a sub-optimal answer), that one guy said the interview's done. Four questions and the interview's done!!! Hardly ten minutes. No questions like "Why ISB? Why MBA now?..." I felt like I have been cheated. I flew all the way from Bangalore and they could have put some more time to listen to me and why I thought of some solutions the way I answered, why I wanted to do an MBA, why I felt ISB was a great place to achieve my dream. I felt the "ETHICS" part of their job was missing. This entire experience enlightened me. I am not in for ISB even if they shortlist me. A panel leaves even before doing its job, the other panel wants to finish off with the interview. The term "world-class" is evident only in ISB's infrastructure - only in body and not in soul. I am sorry if I seem like a maverick or some sort of guy who's crying for not doing his interview well. But, this is ground reality and I felt I need to post this to make people here aware of such alumni. And I really dont care if some of you throw your curse words on me. My advise for the rest of you guys, be prepared for the worst. And if you get selected, years later, when you interview candidates, try not to be like your seniors, even if it means missing a flight.
R2 applicants: After your ISB interview pls share your exp in PG and in this form - http://goo.gl/FIW6W
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52. CHHOTASAKEEL
Had my interview today morning at ISB campus, there were 5 panels (nearly if not all with 3 members each).. Here is my interview experience (total time 30 mins): 1. Introduce yourself 2. Difference between current and earlier role 3. Why has your company has not been doing well over the past year and a half? 4. Example from your work where you resolved a conflict - Counter question based on the reply... 5. You have mentioned innovation, give and example of where you innovated and how it helped 6. Who do you believe are going to be main competitors for your company in the next 3-5 years and why? 7. Why do you want to do an MBA 8. What will you do if your goal of getting selected for a Biz consultancy does not work out 9. You had applied last time as well. Why did it not work out at that time. 10. Any questions for us? Mine was the first interview for the panel for the day, it was conducted in a very pleasant manner (which I am told and also know by experience can often mean a bomb on results day ) The interview questions were primarily aimed at probing my business knowledge for my industry (perhaps because my profile is techno consultant+presales) . Good luck to other fellow applicants... happy to help if anyone needs any assistance.
Interview Tip: Approximately 20% of the Co2013 R1 candidates were asked work on a case study (based on area of work experience) in interview. Use this link to practice case study online - http://goo.gl/zK3bE. Below are the steps to approach a case study (from Case in Point by Marc P. Cosentino). 1. Listen to the question 2. Take notes 3. Summarize the question 4. Understand the objective 5. Ask clarifying questions 6. Organize your answer 7. Work your numbers 8. Manage your time 9. Be creative 10. Bring closure and summarize
R2 applicants: After your ISB interview pls share your exp in PG and in this form - http://goo.gl/FIW6W
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R2 applicants: After your ISB interview pls share your exp in PG and in this form - http://goo.gl/FIW6W
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R2 applicants: After your ISB interview pls share your exp in PG and in this form - http://goo.gl/FIW6W
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R2 applicants: After your ISB interview pls share your exp in PG and in this form - http://goo.gl/FIW6W
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