GD Preparation: Tips on topics & preparation for GD/PI

Nov. 15, 2012 - PRLog -- As soon as you crack the written exam of top B-schools, it is time for group discussion (GD), personal interview (PI) and/or essay writing. In the series of articles on GD, PI and Essay Writing on MBAUniverse.com, we share with you the exclusive experience of an XLRI first year student, Vikram Malik. Vikram shares his experience of the GD & PI at XLRI.

What was your topic at GD?

The topic for GD was“Impact of Social Networking sites on youth”. Besides, other topics widely discussed were FDI in retail, some abstract topics based on proverbs/idioms. Students should brush up the current macroeconomic and political issues for preparations.

What was the strategy you followed to make your mark during the discussion?

I made valid points on the topic 3-4 times, with appropriate air time (25-30 sec). I stuck to my opinion, even though some other students were trying to suppress my views. Throughout the GD, I was cool and confident, which helped me in my selection.

What would be your tip for the aspirants to be able to do successful GD?

GD’s become a bit messy sometimes, because each and every candidate is trying to express his/her viewpoint. The first thing which everyone should ensure is to stay calm and compost during the discussion. Do not try to make a chaotic situation, because a messy GD can lead to the disqualification of entire group.The best strategy to follow is that try to open up the discussion, or make your point during first 2-3 minutes. Sometimes, it may happen that people try to dominate you. In such cases, whenever you get a chance, speak your valid points and leave the rest from the panel to decide.

What were the toughest and the easiest question in your PI?

The PI is highly depends on what type of panel you encounter. It is bit difficult to categorize easy and tough questions, since PI is general in nature and ranges from academics to extra curricula’s to current affairs. However, the easy part of PI was related to my work experience, since my preparation was good on that side. However the part which I felt difficult was related to my academics at school level, which were slightly offset from my knowledge and for which I was not thoroughly prepared.

What according to you can be the possible topic for group discussion in the next admission session in view of the current global and national economic, political and social scenario?

The possible topics can be FDI in retail, corruption and related issues, international issues related to USA and China( with their effects on India), general MBA topics like Technocrats v/s Managers, Managerial skills learnt from experience surpasses those from classroom. Students should be thoroughly aware of the current topics at that time.

Give some specific suggestions to aspirants on personal interview.

For PI, focus first on your academics, your area of specialization in your undergraduate studies, internships and industry work (if any). For work experience candidates, questions could be on their organizations, work sector and current macroeconomic situations of their sector. Typically each institute gives a personal form to be filled up for the interview process in which they ask details like graduation, extra curricula’s and work experience, so those things should be very well prepared. Apart from this, general behavior questions like Why MBA, short term and long term plans, which company you want to work etc. should be well rehearsed.

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