How to ace the GD PI process is a question that follows soon after, ya!!! I made it with my CAT Exam scores. As an MBA aspirant, your next step is to crack the selection process. However, securing a spot at a top MBA institution like the Goa Institute of Management (GIM) is a formidable challenge. MBA aspirants need to invest significant time and effort into GD-PI preparation, but success also hinges on qualities like confidence and effective communication. To shed light on this MBA selection process at GIM, let’s explore insights from successful GIM MBA students (GIM interview experience) who’ve mastered the art of converting admissions calls.
GIM offers PGDM programmes, and its selection process is rigorous, emphasising aptitude, academic excellence, and leadership potential.
Article Overview
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GIM Interview Experience 1: Saikrishna Srinivasan, CAT 80%
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GIM Interview Experience 2: Anmol Gilra, CMAT Rank 3996/52000
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GIM Interview Experience 3: Anurag Roongta, CAT 99.66%, XAT 78% & CMAT Rank 689
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GIM Interview Experience 4: Rahul Jain, CAT 93.78%, XAT 86.81%
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GIM Interview Experience 5: Anonymous User, CAT 92.38%
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GIM Interview Experience 6: Ravi Kamani, CAT – NA
The process for MBA admissions at GIM usually involves the following steps:
1. MBA Entrance Exam: As with most management institutes in India, the first step is to appear for a nationally recognised entrance exam. Common entrance exams accepted by GIM include CAT (Common Admission Test) conducted by the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs), XAT (Xavier Aptitude Test) conducted by XLRI Jamshedpur, CMAT (Common Management Admission Test) for international candidates, etc.
2. Shortlisting: Based on the scores obtained in the entrance exam, candidates are shortlisted for the next stage of the selection process. GIM sets a cutoff score for each entrance exam, and candidates meeting the cutoff are invited to proceed further.
3. Written Ability Test (WAT round): Shortlisted candidates are required to participate in a Written Ability Test. In this stage, candidates are given a topic or a case study to write about, which helps the institute assess their written communication skills, analytical thinking, and ability to articulate their ideas effectively.
4. Group Discussion (GD round): Some candidates might be asked to participate in a Group Discussion or a Group Task. In this round, a group of candidates is given a topic or a problem to discuss or solve collectively. The evaluators assess the candidates’ teamwork, leadership, communication, and problem-solving abilities.
5. Personal Interview Round (PI Round): The final stage of the selection process is the Personal Interview. Shortlisted candidates from the earlier rounds are interviewed by a panel of faculty members and industry experts. The interview allows the institute to evaluate the candidates’ personalities, academic background, work experience (if applicable), and their alignment with GIM’s values and goals.
6. Final Selection: After considering the performance in all the selection rounds, the institute prepares a final merit list of selected candidates. The list is based on various parameters, including the entrance exam score, WAT/essay, GD/GT, PI, academic records, work experience, and diversity factors.
7. Offer of Admission: The selected candidates receive formal offer letters from the institute. They are required to confirm their acceptance by paying the admission fee within a stipulated time.
GIM Interview Experience: MBA GD PI WAT Round
GIM Converts who aced the GD-PI round at the Goa Institute of Management shared their PI experiences, thoughts, and tips to crack the GD PI WAT round, which covers topics around the top questions asked in personal interviews at GIM, including GD topics, WAT topics, and questions for freshers or working professionals.
GIM Interview Experience 1: Saikrishna Srinivasan, CAT 80%
In January 2018, I participated in the Achievers Round at GIM, Sanquelim Campus in Goa. The day started early, and after a warm welcome and some briefings, I attended an insightful class on “Goods and Services Tax.” The Group Discussion followed, where we passionately debated the topic “MBA is a waste of time,” and later, it was switched to “Undergrad is a waste of time.” The Personal Interview was nerve-wracking but rewarding, with questions ranging from achievements to personal life and work experience. The whole experience provided valuable insights into college life and academics at GIM, leaving me hopeful for a positive outcome.
Top MBA Personal Interview Questions (GIM)
1. Introduce yourself
2. Tell me about your work experience.
3. Questions related to work experience
4. Why MBA?
5. What are the things you will do, if you become the Marketing Manager of GIM?
6. What are the strategies that can be developed for promoting an MBA college?
7. Why should we give you an admit?
8. Questing relating to hobbies
9. What is Brand management, or market intelligence?
10 Difference between sales and marketing
Director’s Round
1. What was your role in your previous organisation?
2. Further drilling on work experience
3. What is heat transfer and Mass transfer?
4. Explain the workings of Refrigeration and Air Conditioning.
5. Application-related questions on heat and mass transfer in refrigeration
6. What are PERT and CPM?
7. How is product management different from Brand management?
8. What different will you do if you are selected for a Brand Management role, given that you already have product management experience?
9. What do you know about the Mondovi River dispute? What do you think is the solution?
10. What are the latest technologies where the Brand is not as famous as the technology itself?
11. What are the environmental issues plaguing Bangalore? What are the solutions?
GIM Interview Experience 2: Anmol Gilra, CMAT Rank 3996/52000
During the interview, I passionately conveyed my belief in the significance of spirituality in the corporate world, emphasising its role in motivating employees, maintaining a healthy work environment, and fostering a positive mindset. I discussed how spirituality can lead to a shift from transactional to transformational leadership, helping individuals accept losses and uncertainties in business while remaining productive. The panellists, P1 and P2, seemed receptive to my ideas, nodding in agreement as I spoke. Although I was ultimately not selected for the final round, I cherished the experience of sharing my perspective and will carry the valuable lessons learned with me on my journey towards personal and professional growth.
Top MBA Personal Interview Questions (GIM)
1. Describe your profile.
2. Do you have a gap in your academics?
3. What other calls did you get?
4. Why are you not going for a CA instead of an MBA?
5. What is Bath costing in accounting?
6. What is cost-benefit analysis?
7. What is the demand and supply curve?
8. Do you read newspapers? How do you keep yourself updated with current affairs?
9. Give me the names of 2 Padma Bhushan winners.
GIM Interview Experience 3: Anurag Roongta, CAT 99.66%, XAT 78% & CMAT Rank 689
During the group discussion, I struggled to contribute much, and when questioned in the personal interview, I nervously stated that I am an introvert, which didn’t go over well with the panel. They seemed surprised by my silence, given my 99% CAT score and job at ABG. The panel even hinted that my father might have influenced my job placement, which I denied. They questioned if I was treating the interview as a mere practice session for IIMC, implying I wasn’t serious. When discussing my reading habits and reasons for pursuing an MBA, I tried to justify my decision, but the panel’s scepticism remained evident. The interview left me feeling uncertain about my chances, hoping that my overall performance would still be considered for admission.
Top MBA Personal Interview Questions (GIM)
1. Why didn’t you speak at the GD?
2. Where do you work?
3. You got 99% in CAT!!! What are you doing here man? You should be at IIMA!
4. Where did you get the call from?
5. Is this GDPI a practice session for you? For the final game in IIMC?
6. Do you read anything? What do you read?
7. What does your father do?
8. How much are you going to spend on an MBA?
GIM Interview Experience 4: Rahul Jain, CAT 93.78%, XAT 86.81%
During the PGDM interview, we met the Director, faculty members, and an alumnus of GIM. Being assigned to Panel 1, we discussed whether the world is moving at a faster pace with topics like Twitter, SMS, and T20. I actively participated, contributing about 3 to 4 times. In the Writing Ability Test, we had 5 to 6 minutes to write on the same topic. The Personal Interview surprised me as I was called second instead of last. They asked about my reasons for pursuing an MBA, and despite being told I was perceived as boring by one faculty member, I managed to share a joke. We talked about my scores, preferred business schools (IMT-G and GIM), and scholarships. It ended with a request not to share the experience outside the batch. Now, I eagerly await the results, hoping for a first-list selection with a scholarship.
Top MBA Personal Interview Questions (GIM)
1. Introduce yourself.
2. Why do you want to pursue an MBA?
3. How are the current and previous CEO’s of your company? They are not MBAs.
4. Tell us a joke or a funny instance.
5. What were your scores, and what other calls did you get?
6. Any questions for us? (The candidate asked about scholarships.) (I got the answer.)
GIM Interview Experience 5: Anonymous User, CAT 92.38%
In the first round of the interview, I faced Panel 3, consisting of two female interviewers, around 55 and one male, around 65. They asked about my background and why I chose BJMC in under graduation. When discussing the most important qualities of a journalist, I emphasised objectivity,nd one interviewer tried to grill me on it, but I stood my ground. Questions about influencer marketing and the media’s impact on film reviews followed. In the second round, facing three male interviewers, I shared my achievements and answered questions about UP, my favourite subjects in grad school, and my career goals. Despite challenging questions on political right and left philosophies, I maintained composure and successfully converted the interview, receiving an on-the-spot offer letter. It was a rewarding experience that showcased my knowledge and determination.
Top MBA Personal Interview Questions (GIM)
1. Tell us about yourself.
2. Why BJMC in under graduation?
3. Two most important qualities of a journalist? (The panellist tried to grill him on his objective answers.)
4. What is influence marketing? What are your views on it?
5. A question about film reviews and the media’s impact on box office numbers of films.
6. How did your CAT go?
Spot Round
1. Introduce yourself and tell us about your achievements.
2. Where are you from?
3. What are your thoughts about UP?
4. Why MBA after BJMC?
5. What was your favourite subject in graduation?
6. What was your favourite topic?
7. What was your favourite concept?
8. Who is your favourite journalist?
9. Why is that?
10. Explain the philosophy of political right and left.
11. Tell us your career goal?
GIM Interview Experience 6: Ravi Kamani, CAT – NA
On January 15th, 2018, I went through a challenging yet insightful interview process at the GIM college. The achievers round had about 37-38 students, and we attended an informative class on business legislative laws. Later, we had group dynamics (GD) and WAT sessions. In the GD, we debated whether plastics should be banned in India, and I actively contributed with 3-4 points. After that, the interview with two panellists, a male and a female, began. They asked about my background, interests, academic achievements, and extracurricular activities. We also discussed current affairs and general knowledge related to the business world. The panellists were friendly and genuinely interested in understanding my thought process. I was called for the director’s interview among 14 students after the first round. The interview with four male panellists, including the director, was enjoyable. We talked about my graduation subjects, work experience, and hobbies like football. I explained my career objectives and received a spot admission offer. Overall, the interview experience was smooth and enjoyable, and I felt honoured to receive a spot offer.
Top MBA Personal Interview Questions (GIM)
1. How are you, Ravi? Tell us something about yourself.
2. So, an IT engineer, tell us how a class and object are different in C language.
3. What is inheritance and polymorphism? Give an example of each.
4. Explain the waterfall model in software management
5. You have many academic achievements; what about extracurriculars?
6. What are your hobbies?
7. Tell us about your favourite novel, and why is it a favourite.
8. Do you know about the Afghanistan crisis? If so, what is it?
9. So, you have worked at a Wall Clock Manufacturing Company. What were your roles and duties?
10. Why GIM and why Goa?
11. Any questions for us?
Director’s Round
1. Tell us about yourself.
2. What were your graduation subjects?
3. Describe HTML, its uses and how to create a website.
4. State the difference between static and dynamic pages.
5. State the difference between HTML and XML.
6. What is PHP and servers?
7. How to make a good website?
8. What is your work experience?
9. What are your hobbies? (After answering ‘football’, the panellists had a lot of questions to grill the candidate.)
10. Why GIM? Why do you want to pursue an MBA after engineering?
For more in-depth insights on excelling in the GDPI process at GIM, check out this video.
GD PI Preparation Tips – CAT Toppers Advice on How to Ace Personal Interview Questions for Admissions at GIM
Here are 10 tips from CAT toppers to help you prepare for the Personal Interview (PI) round at the Goa Institute of Management (GIM):
1. Research GIM Thoroughly: Start by gathering in-depth knowledge about GIM, its programmes, faculty, and recent achievements. Understand the institute’s values and culture to align your responses with their expectations.
2. Know Your Application Inside Out: Review your application and be ready to discuss your academic and extracurricular achievements, work experience, and any other relevant details. Expect questions about your resume and experiences.
3. Current Affairs Awareness: Stay updated with current affairs, especially in the business and management fields. Be prepared to discuss recent industry trends, economic developments, and business news.
4. Practice Mock Interviews: Conduct mock interviews with friends, family, or mentors. Practice answering common interview questions to build confidence and refine your responses.
5. Master the Basics: Brush up on your fundamentals in areas like finance, marketing, operations, and general management. Be prepared to answer questions related to your chosen specialisation.
6. Behavioural Questions: Anticipate questions about your strengths, weaknesses, leadership experiences, and how you handle challenges. Use the STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) method to structure your answers.
7. Industry Insights: If you have work experience, be ready to discuss your role, projects, and how your experience relates to your MBA goals. Highlight specific achievements and your impact on your previous organisations.
8. Case Study Analysis: Practice solving case studies to demonstrate your analytical and problem-solving skills. Discuss your approach clearly and logically during the interview.
9. Questions for the Interviewers: Prepare thoughtful questions to ask the interview panel. This shows your genuine interest in GIM and helps you gather more insights about the institute.
10. Body Language and Communication: Practice good body language, maintain eye contact, and speak clearly and confidently. Pay attention to your tone and pace of speech to ensure effective communication.
11. Remember to be authentic, stay calm, and maintain a positive attitude during the interview. GIM is not only looking for academic excellence but also for candidates who exhibit leadership potential, adaptability, and a passion for contributing to the institute’s community.
For more tips on how to ace GDPI at IIMs and other top MBA Colleges, watch this video by CATKing.
GIM GD Topics Asked: Top Group Discussion Topics for MBA Admission Round
While the specific questions asked during Group Discussion (GD) rounds at Goa Institute of Management (GIM) may vary from year to year, here is a list of 15 commonly asked GD topics and questions that are frequently encountered in GD round of MBA admissions:
1. Current Affairs: Discuss the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the global economy.
2. Ethical Dilemmas: Is it ethical for companies to prioritise profits over environmental sustainability?
3. Technology Trends: What role will artificial intelligence (AI) play in shaping the future job market?
4. Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR): Should CSR be mandatory for all companies? Why or why not?
5. Leadership: Analyse the leadership style of a prominent CEO (e.g., Elon Musk, Jeff Bezos).
6. Startups vs. Established Companies: Compare the advantages and disadvantages of working for a startup versus a well-established corporation.
7. Gender Diversity: Discuss the importance of gender diversity in the workplace and strategies to promote it.
8. Education System: Is the current education system preparing students adequately for the challenges of the modern workforce?
9. Economic Policy: Assess the impact of government policies on economic growth.
10. Globalization: Discuss the pros and cons of globalisation in various industries.
11. Digital Marketing: Explore the effectiveness of digital marketing compared to traditional marketing methods.
12. Climate Change: Analyse the role of businesses in combating climate change and reducing their carbon footprint.
13. Financial Literacy: Discuss the importance of financial literacy and its impact on personal finance.
14. Healthcare Reform: Debate the need for healthcare reform and the role of private and public healthcare systems.1
15. Artificial Intelligence in Healthcare: Discuss the potential benefits and ethical concerns of using AI in healthcare.
Remember that in a GD, it’s not just about your viewpoint but also your ability to listen, collaborate, and present your ideas coherently. Be prepared to support your arguments with facts and examples, and be respectful of others’ opinions. These topics can serve as a starting point for your GD preparation, but it’s crucial to stay updated with current events and practice discussing various subjects to be well-prepared for any topic that may come up.
Also Read: Campus Tales: Experience life, the GIM Way Ft. Pratibha Modi & Adarsh Anilkumar
Frequently Asked Topics For WAT Round at GIM
The Written Ability Test (WAT) round at Goa Institute of Management (GIM) is a wat is a paper-pen based round that often includes a wide range of topics to assess candidates’ writing and analytical skills. While specific topics may vary from year to year, here’s a list of 15 frequently asked WAT topics that are relevant and can help score high in WAT:
1. Climate Change: Discuss the impact of climate change and potential solutions.
2. Artificial Intelligence: Analyse the role of AI in transforming various industries.
3. Digital Transformation: How is digitalisation changing the business landscape?
4. Entrepreneurship: The importance of fostering an entrepreneurial culture in India.
5. Work-Life Balance: Strategies for maintaining a healthy work-life balance in a fast-paced world.
6. Globalisation and Its Effects: Assess the pros and cons of globalisation on economies and cultures.
7. Economic Inequality: Discuss the growing wealth gap and its consequences.
8. Healthcare Access: How can healthcare be made more accessible and affordable?
9. Education Reforms: What changes are needed in the education system to meet the demands of the 21st century?
10. Women Empowerment: Strategies to promote gender equality and empower women in society.
11. Social Media Impact: Analyse the influence of social media on individuals and society.
12. Ethical Leadership: The importance of ethics in leadership roles.
13. Data Privacy: Discuss the challenges and concerns related to data privacy in the digital age.
14. Sustainable Development: How can businesses and governments promote sustainable development?
15. COVID-19 Pandemic: Analyse the global response to the pandemic and its long-term effects.
When writing your essay in the WAT round, ensure that you have a clear thesis statement, provide supporting evidence or examples, and maintain a logical structure throughout your essay. Practice time management to complete your essay within the given time limit, and proofread for grammar and coherence before submitting. Remember that your ability to convey your ideas concisely and effectively is key in the WAT round.
For many such useful tips on how to ace the IIM/MBA interview process, watch this insightful video by Patrick D’souza
FAQs: GIM MBA Admission 2022 – 23
Q: How long does the GDPI process at GIM usually take?
A: The entire GD PI WAT process can vary, but it typically takes around 30-45 minutes per candidate.
Q: What are the commonly asked topics for the Group Discussion at GIM?
A: Topics can vary, but they often revolve around current affairs, business trends, or social issues.
Q: How are candidates assessed during the GDPI at GIM?
A: Candidates are evaluated based on their communication skills, critical thinking, problem-solving ability, and teamwork.
Q: What role does the Personal Interview play in the selection process?
A: The Personal Interview helps the panel gauge the candidate’s personality, motivations, and alignment with the institute’s values.
Q: What kind of questions can I expect during the Personal Interview at GIM?
A: Questions may cover your academic background, you work experience, interests, career goals, co-curricular or social activities and your knowledge of the business world.
Q: Is work experience a requirement for GIM’s GDPI process?
A: No, work experience is not mandatory. Both fresh graduates and candidates with work experience are considered.
Q: How should I prepare for the GDPI at GIM?
A: Brush up on current affairs, practice group discussions, and be thorough with your academic and professional experiences.
Q: Are there any specific dress code guidelines for the GDPI?
A: While there might not be strict dress codes, it’s advisable to dress in formal or semi-formal attire for a positive impression.
Q: What weightage is given to the GDPI in the overall selection process?
A: The weightage for the GDPI varies each year, but it generally holds significant importance along with other selection criteria like CAT/XAT scores, academic records, and work experience (if applicable).
Q: What are the MBA programmes offered at Goa Institute of Management (GIM)?
A: Here is the list of top MBA programmes offered at GIM
1. Post Graduate Diploma in Management (PGDM)
2. Post Graduate Diploma in Management (PGDM) in Healthcare Management (HCM)
3. Post Graduate Diploma in Management (PGDM) in Big Data Analytics
4. Post Graduate Diploma in Management (PGDM) in Banking and Financial Services (BFS)
5. Post Graduate Diploma in Management (PGDM) in Human Resource Management (HRM)
6. Please check GIM’s official website or contact the institute directly for the most current information on MBA/PGDM programmes offered at GIM.
Q: What are the top MBA colleges in India that offers similer MBA programmes like GIM?
A: Top MBA colleges that offer MBA programmes similer to GIM include
1. Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs)
2. XLRI – Xavier School of Management
3. Indian School of Business (ISB)
4. Management Development Institute (MDI), Gurgaon
5. Xavier Institute of Management Bhubaneswar (XIMB)
Sources & Reference
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