Best Ever Interview Guidence For Competitive Exams | Ex IBPS Panel Member Explained

Summary

In this insightful interview, an experienced professional shares valuable advice for candidates preparing for banking exams and interviews. Emphasizing the importance of ambition, preparation, and a positive mindset, the speaker offers tips on how to make a lasting impression during the interview process. Key aspects covered include body language, handling difficult questions, and managing stress, as well as the significance of current affairs and industry knowledge. The speaker encourages candidates to focus on their strengths, remain calm under pressure, and approach interviews with confidence and politeness to increase their chances of success.

Takeaways

• 😀 Dress code and body language play a crucial role in creating a positive first impression during an interview. Ensure you enter the room quietly, dress decently, and maintain polite body language.
• 😀 It's important to stay calm and composed when you don't know an answer. The panel might help guide you, so don’t panic.
• 😀 Be aware of both current affairs and the specifics of the position you're applying for. Your knowledge should span beyond your specialization to other areas of banking and customer service.
• 😀 Panel members are not just assessing your knowledge but also how you handle pressure, maintain composure, and respond to negative or difficult questions.
• 😀 For those with prior work experience, the interview will focus on understanding why you left your previous job and how you can fit into the new organization.
• 😀 There is no bias toward candidates based on the order in which they are interviewed. Each interview is scored independently without reference to previous candidates' performance.
• 😀 Always remain polite, and when asked about weaknesses, focus on areas you are actively working to improve rather than presenting them as negatives.
• 😀 Panel members expect candidates to be patient and composed, especially when dealing with challenges or difficult questions. Do not be afraid to admit when you're unsure but respond confidently and with clarity.
• 😀 Always answer questions based on your knowledge, and avoid giving wrong answers or arguing with the panel. This could negatively impact the impression they have of you.
• 😀 A positive mindset is essential for success. Keep calm, be prepared, and show your eagerness to serve in the position you’re applying for. Panel members want to see you as a good fit for the role.

Q & A

What is the first thing that impresses the panel members when a candidate enters the room?

The first thing that impresses the panel is how the candidate enters the room. The candidate should quietly open the door, hold the file in the right hand, and close the door gently. They should then wish the panel members before sitting down after receiving permission.

How should a candidate handle a question they don't know the answer to during an interview?

If a candidate doesn't know the answer, they should remain calm and composed. It's important to not panic or become defensive. The panel will often provide hints or prompts to help. Even if the answer is wrong, the candidate should remain polite and confident in their responses.

What are the key aspects that the panel members look for in a candidate's body language during an interview?

Panel members observe the candidate's posture, confidence, and overall demeanor. It's essential to maintain a positive, calm, and respectful body language. Arrogance should be avoided, and the candidate should appear approachable and open to conversation.

Does the performance of previous candidates affect the marks given to the current candidates?

No, the performance of previous candidates does not affect the marks given to the current ones. Each candidate's performance is assessed independently. The panel awards marks immediately after each interview, and there is no comparison between candidates.

How should a candidate handle being asked questions based on incorrect facts or wrong answers?

When a panel member insists on a wrong answer, it is a test of the candidate's ability to remain calm and composed. Even if the candidate is correct, the panel may try to agitate them to assess their patience and demeanor. The candidate should stay calm, assert their knowledge politely, and avoid getting agitated.

What is the importance of current affairs knowledge during a bank exam interview?

Current affairs knowledge is important as it reflects the candidate's awareness of the world and issues related to the banking industry. Panel members expect candidates to have up-to-date knowledge of economic trends, financial policies, and national and international events that may impact the banking sector.

Should a candidate mention their weaknesses or negative traits in the self-introduction?

In a self-introduction, it is better to focus on strengths and achievements. While it is not necessary to hide weaknesses, it's advisable not to dwell on them. Instead, candidates should present themselves confidently, highlighting their qualifications and positive qualities.

What role does patience play in an interview for positions like HR in banking?

Patience is crucial, especially for HR positions, because the role involves dealing with various people, including customers, employees, and unions. Panel members assess how candidates handle pressure, manage conflicts, and respond to challenges. Demonstrating patience during the interview process is important for such roles.

How should a candidate approach questions about their work experience if they are transitioning from another job?

If a candidate is transitioning from a previous job, the panel will focus on their reasons for leaving, their job satisfaction, and how their experience aligns with the new role. The candidate should answer honestly but should also show a clear understanding of why they are switching jobs and how their skills will benefit the new organization.

What advice is given to candidates regarding their mindset before attending an interview?

Candidates should approach the interview with a positive mindset. They should believe in their abilities, remain calm, and avoid letting anxiety or the fear of failure affect their performance. A confident and composed attitude will help them succeed.