BBA MBA IPM

Interview Prep Kit

by ProTalent
What's Inside?
Personal Interview: An Overview
Current Affairs
Important Concepts To Know
Answer To Important PI Questions
 BBA + MBA Interview Prep Kit

PERSONAL INTERVIEW: AN OVERVIEW

What is Personal Interview?
• A personal interview is a common method used by business schools to evaluate BBA + MBA
candidates. It typically takes place after a candidate has submitted an application, and is intended to
provide the admissions committee with a better understanding of the candidate's qualifications, skills,
and experience. The interview is also an opportunity for the candidate to ask questions and gain a
better understanding of the business school's program.
• During the personal interview, the interviewer will ask a variety of questions to assess the candidate's
qualifications and potential fit for the program. These questions may cover the candidate's work
experience, leadership experience, reasons for pursuing an BBA + MBA, and future career
aspirations. The interviewer will also be looking for qualities such as communication skills,
motivation, and problemsolving ability.
• The personal interview is usually conducted by a member of the admissions committee, and may be
held in person or over the phone. Some business schools also conduct group interviews, where
multiple candidates are interviewed at the same time. The length of the interview can vary, but it
typically lasts between 30-45 minutes.
• It is important for the candidate to be prepared for the personal interview by researching the business
school and its program, practicing answering common interview questions, and dressing
professionally. The candidate should also come prepared with specific examples of their
qualifications, skills and experience, and be ready to explain how they align with the business
school's program.
• Overall, the personal interview is an important part of the BBA + MBA application process, and a
successful interview can help to strengthen a candidate's overall application. It allows the candidate
to show their passion and enthusiasm for the program, and gives the admissions committee an
opportunity to understand the candidate's fit for the program.

Important consideration to prepare for Personal Interview

1. Research the business school: Before the interview, research the business school's program,
curriculum, and culture. Understand the school's mission, goals, and values, as well as the
strengths and weaknesses of the program. This information can be used to demonstrate your
interest in the school and to tailor your responses to the interviewer's questions.
2. Understand the format of the interview: Some business schools conduct one-on-one interviews,
while others conduct group interviews. Understand the format of the interview and prepare
accordingly. For example, group interviews require different strategies than one-on-one
interviews.
3. Prepare your answers to common questions: Common questions include your reasons for
pursuing an BBA + MBA, your career goals, your strengths and weaknesses, and your fit for the
program. Prepare your answers in advance, and be ready to provide specific examples to support
your points.
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4. Bring relevant materials: Bring copies of your resume, transcripts, and any other relevant
documents to the interview. These materials can be used to support your qualifications and
answers to the interviewer's questions.
5. Dress professionally: Business school interviews are formal occasions, so it is important to dress
professionally. Wear a suit or a professional dress and avoid anything too casual.
6. Be punctual: Arrive to the interview on time and be prepared to wait if the interviewer is running
behind schedule. Being punctual shows respect for the interviewer's time and demonstrates your
punctuality as a trait.
7. Ask questions: Prepare a list of questions to ask the interviewer. This will demonstrate your
interest in the school and the program, and will also provide you with valuable information to
help you make your decision.

Importance of communication in B-School interview

• Effective communication is crucial during a business school interview as it can help to convey your
qualifications and enthusiasm for the program, and also demonstrate your ability to express yourself
clearly and effectively. During the interview, the admissions committee will be assessing your
communication skills and your ability to articulate your thoughts, ideas and experiences.
• Good communication skills can help to make a positive impression on the interviewer and can also
help to demonstrate your ability to work effectively with others. Strong communication skills are
essential for success in the business world and are highly valued by employers.
• During the interview, you will be expected to answer questions, ask questions, and participate in a
conversation. Therefore, it is important to be able to communicate clearly and confidently, and to be
able to express your ideas in a logical and persuasive manner. This includes speaking clearly, using
appropriate body language and being able to listen actively.
• Furthermore, the interviewer may also assess your ability to communicate in writing through the
essays that you submitted as part of your application. Therefore, it is important to be able to write
clearly, concisely and persuasively. This includes being able to structure your thoughts in a logical
manner, to use appropriate vocabulary and grammar, and to present your ideas in a clear and concise
manner.
• Overall, good communication skills are crucial in the business school interview process, and can help
to demonstrate your qualifications and potential for success in the program.

Common Interview Questions and their answers

1. Tell me something about yourself or introduce yourself
"Hello, my name is [Your Name], and I am currently completing my 12th grade at [Your School
Name], where I have focused on [your stream, e.g., Commerce/Science/Arts]. I have always been
passionate about understanding the dynamics of the business world, which has led me to pursue a
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career in management.
During my high school years, I actively participated in various extracurricular activities that have
honed my leadership and teamwork skills. For instance, I served as the president of the [Your School
Club, e.g., Business Club/Debate Club], where I organized events and competitions that sparked my
interest in management and entrepreneurship. This role taught me the importance of strategic
planning, effective communication, and team coordination.
Academically, I have consistently performed well, particularly in subjects such as [mention relevant
subjects, e.g., Economics, Mathematics, Business Studies], which I believe are foundational for a
career in business management. My coursework and projects have given me a solid understanding
of key business concepts and analytical skills.
In addition to my academic and extracurricular achievements, I have also completed internships and
volunteer work that have provided me with practical insights into the business world. For example, I
interned at [Company/Organization Name], where I gained hands-on experience in [briefly describe
the role and what you learned].
I am particularly drawn to the BBA program at Symbiosis University Pune because of its
comprehensive curriculum, distinguished faculty, and emphasis on experiential learning. I am eager
to take advantage of the opportunities to engage in internships, workshops, and networking events
that Symbiosis offers. I believe that this program will provide me with the knowledge and skills
necessary to achieve my career goals and make a positive impact in the business world.
Thank you for considering my application. I am excited about the possibility of contributing to and
growing with the vibrant academic community at Symbiosis University Pune."

2. Where are you from? Tell us about that.

I am from Surat, a bustling city in the state of Gujarat, known as the Diamond City of India. Surat has a rich
cultural heritage and is famous for its diamond cutting and polishing industry, as well as its vibrant textile
market. Growing up in such an industrious and entrepreneurial environment has had a profound impact on
me.

Surat's dynamic business environment has instilled in me a strong work ethic and a keen sense of business
acumen. Being surrounded by successful entrepreneurs and witnessing the city’s rapid economic growth
firsthand motivated me to pursue a career in business management. Additionally, Surat’s prominence in the
textile and diamond industries has provided me with a deep understanding of these sectors and the
importance of quality and precision.

The city is also known for its diverse cuisine and hospitable culture. This multicultural exposure has taught
me the value of adaptability and effective communication, skills that are crucial in any professional setting.
Furthermore, Surat’s community-driven initiatives and festivals have instilled in me a sense of teamwork
and the importance of contributing to the community.

Living in Surat, I have also learned to appreciate the balance between tradition and modernity. This balance
is reflected in my approach to problem-solving and innovation. I am adept at integrating traditional values
with modern techniques, which I believe is essential for driving sustainable growth and development.
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Overall, Surat has shaped me into a hardworking, adaptable, and culturally aware individual. I am excited to
bring these qualities, along with my professional skills and experiences, to your organization.

3. What are your long-term and short-term goals?

• An ideal answer to the question "What are your long-term and short-term goals?" in a business
school interview would include specific and measurable goals that align with the program's
objectives.
• Here is an example of an ideal answer:
• "My long-term goal is to become a senior manager in a multinational corporation, where I can use
my leadership and strategic management skills to drive the company's growth and success. In the
short-term, I aim to gain a deeper understanding of business operations, strategic management, and
international business through an BBA + MBA program. After completing my BBA + MBA, I plan
to gain experience in a management role in a multinational corporation, where I can apply my
knowledge and skills to contribute to the company's growth and success. I am particularly interested
in the school's focus on innovation and entrepreneurship and I am confident that the program will
provide me the necessary knowledge and skills to achieve my career goals."
• This answer is clear and concise, providing specific and measurable goals that align with the
program's objectives. It also shows how the candidate's interests align with the school's program,
demonstrating their fit for the program.

4. Tell us something about yourself which is not there in the resume?

• An ideal answer to the question "Tell us something about yourself which is not there in the resume?"
in a business school interview would be a brief and relevant information that highlights the
candidate's unique skills, experiences, or personal characteristics that are not covered in their resume.
• Here is an example of an ideal answer:
• "One thing that is not on my resume is my passion for photography. I've been taking photos for years
as a hobby and it has taught me a lot about composition, attention to detail, and the ability to see the
beauty in the world around me. I believe that these skills are transferable to my professional life, as
they have helped me to notice small details in my work that others might have missed, and to present
information in a visually compelling way. Additionally, being a photographer, I have a creative side
which is not reflected in my resume, but I believe it will be a great asset to my team and my future
employer."
• This answer is brief and relevant, providing information that highlights the candidate's unique skills
and personal characteristics that are not covered in their resume. It also shows how the candidate's
interests align with the school's program, demonstrating their fit for the program.

5. Which was your favorite subject during 12th std?

• An ideal answer to the question "Which was your favorite subject during 12th std?" in a business
school interview would be a brief and relevant information that highlights the candidate's areas of
interest and expertise, and how it aligns with the program's objectives.
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• Here is an example of an ideal answer:

• "My favorite subject during school was Economics. I found it to be fascinating and challenging, as it
helped me understand how the world works, and how different economic policies and decisions can
affect individuals, businesses, and entire countries. Through my coursework and independent
research, I developed a strong understanding of micro and macroeconomic theory, and how to apply
it to real-world scenarios. I believe that this background will be beneficial in an BBA + MBA
program as it will help me understand the economic environment within which businesses operate
and make strategic decisions."

6. Have you participated in extracurricular activities?

• An ideal answer to the question "Have you participated in extracurricular activities?" in a business
school interview would be a brief overview of the candidate's extracurricular activities, highlighting
the skills and experiences gained through them, and how it aligns with the program's objectives.
• Here is an example of an ideal answer:
• "Yes, I have been actively involved in extracurricular activities throughout my school days. I was a
member of the debate team, which helped me develop my communication and public speaking skills.
I also volunteered for a local nonprofit organization, where I gained experience in project
management and team leadership. Additionally, I am an avid traveler and have had the opportunity to
visit several countries, and gain a broader perspective on different cultures and ways of living. I
believe that these experiences have helped me develop strong leadership, problem-solving, and
interpersonal skills, which I believe will be valuable assets in an BBA + MBA program."

7. Share any academic experience which had been proven to be the most difficult or rewarding?
• An ideal answer to the question "Share any academic experience which had been proven to be the
most difficult or rewarding?" in a business school interview would be a brief overview of the
candidate's academic experience, highlighting the difficulties and/or rewards, and how it aligns with
the program's objectives.
• Here is an example of an ideal answer:
• "One of the most difficult but rewarding academic experiences I had was during my 12th std when I
took a course in statistics. It was a challenging subject for me as I had not had much exposure to it
before. However, I was determined to succeed and put in extra effort to understand the concepts. I
found the reward in being able to analyze data and make informed decisions based on the results.
This experience helped me develop my problem-solving and analytical skills, and I believe it will be
valuable in an BBA + MBA program as it will help me understand and analyze data in order to make
strategic business decisions."

• This answer is still brief and relevant, providing information that highlights the candidate's
perspective on the importance of job experience, how they have taken advantage of other
opportunities to gain skills and experiences, and how it aligns with the program's objectives. It also
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shows how the candidate's interests align with the school's program, demonstrating their fit for the
program.

8. Tell us some of your strengths and weaknesses.

• Some strengths that I have include my ability to work well in a team, my strong problem-solving
skills, and my ability to adapt to new situations quickly. One weakness that I have been working on
improving is my tendency to be a perfectionist, which can sometimes lead to procrastination. To
combat this, I have been practicing time management techniques and setting realistic goals for
myself.

9. Who is your role model

• My role model is [Name], who is a successful business leader in [industry]. I admire [his/her] ability
to make difficult decisions under pressure, [his/her] unwavering commitment to [his/her] goals and
values, and [his/her] dedication to mentoring and developing the next generation of leaders. [Name]
has not only achieved great success in [his/her] career but also has made a positive impact on the
industry and society as a whole. I strive to emulate [his/her] leadership style and drive for success in
my own career.

CURRENT AFFAIRS
1. Uniform civil code
• A Uniform Civil Code refers to a set of laws that apply to all citizens of a country, regardless of their
religion or community. It seeks to replace the personal laws based on the customs and traditions of
different religious communities with a common set of laws that apply to all citizens. The concept of a
Uniform Civil Code is a controversial one in India, as it is seen by some as an attempt to impose a
single set of laws on all citizens, while others see it as a way to promote equal rights and justice for
all citizens.
• In India, the debate around a Uniform Civil Code has been ongoing for several decades. The Indian
Constitution calls for the establishment of a Uniform Civil Code, but it has not yet been
implemented. Personal laws of different religions govern various aspects of personal life such as
marriage, divorce, inheritance, and adoption. Critics argue that these laws are discriminatory,
particularly against women and minorities, and that a Uniform Civil Code would help to address
these inequalities. Supporters argue that a Uniform Civil Code would promote national unity and
equality before the law.
• In conclusion, A Uniform Civil Code is a set of laws that applies to all citizens of a country,
regardless of their religion or community. It is a contentious issue in India where personal laws of
different religions are currently in place, and the debate around it has been ongoing for decades.
Some argue that it would address inequalities in the current system and promote national unity and
equality before the law, while others argue that it would impose a single set of laws on all citizens.
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2. India as the G20 host

• India is set to host the G20 summit in 2022, marking the first time the country will be hosting the
event. The G20, or Group of Twenty, is a forum for the world's major economies to come together
and discuss issues related to global economic cooperation and governance.
• As the host country, India will be responsible for setting the agenda and coordinating the activities of
the summit. The theme of the Indian-hosted G20 summit is "India's G20 Presidency: Priorities and
Agenda". The priorities include the following:
1. Inclusive and Sustainable Development: The focus will be on the need to promote sustainable
and inclusive growth in the post-COVID-19 world.
2. Health and Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs): The focus will be on the role of
health and MSMEs in driving economic growth.
3. Digital Economy: The focus will be on the role of digital technologies in driving economic
growth and creating new opportunities for businesses and individuals.
4. Climate Change and Energy: The focus will be on the need to address the urgent challenges
posed by climate change, including the need to transition to cleaner and more sustainable energy
sources.
5. Women Empowerment: The focus will be on the need to promote gender equality and empower
women to fully participate in the economy.
6. International Trade and Investment: The focus will be on the need to promote open and fair trade
and investment as a means of driving economic growth and development.
• The G20 summit is an important event in the global economic calendar and India's hosting of it will
give it a significant platform to promote its economic agenda and priorities on the global stage. The
summit is expected to bring together leaders from the world's major economies and provide an
opportunity for India to showcase its economic progress and potential as a global economic leader.

3. Inflation and rupee trade with south Asian nations

• Inflation is the rate at which the general level of prices for goods and services is rising, and
subsequently, purchasing power is falling. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) uses various monetary
policy tools to control inflation and maintain price stability. When inflation is high, the RBI raises
interest rates to reduce demand and slow down economic activity, which in turn helps to bring down
inflation.
• In India, inflation has been a concern in recent years, with high food and fuel prices putting pressure
on consumer prices. The COVID-19 pandemic has also affected inflation, leading to supply chain
disruptions and a rise in the cost of goods and services.
• In terms of trade with South Asian nations, India has a trade deficit with most of its South Asian
neighbours. This means that India imports more goods and services from these countries than it
exports to them. India's trade deficit with countries in the region is mainly due to the fact that these
countries are relatively small and have less developed economies, which limits their ability to import
Indian goods and services.
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• However, India has been working to improve trade relations with its South Asian neighbours,
particularly through the South Asian Free Trade Area (SAFTA) agreement. The SAFTA agreement,
which was signed in 2006, aims to reduce trade barriers and increase economic cooperation between
the member countries.
• In summary, Inflation is the rate of increase in the prices of goods and services, and the Reserve
Bank of India uses monetary policy tools to control it. India has a trade deficit with most of its South
Asian neighbors, mainly due to their small and less developed economies. However, India is working
to improve trade relations with its South Asian neighbors through the South Asian Free Trade Area
agreement which aims to reduce trade barriers and increase economic cooperation.

4. India’s testing on the green bond market

• India has been testing the waters of the green bond market in recent years as a way to finance
environmentally sustainable projects and promote the country's transition to a low-carbon economy.
• A green bond is a type of debt instrument that is used to raise capital for projects that have a positive
environmental impact. These projects can include renewable energy, clean transportation, and
sustainable agriculture, among others.
• In 2016, the Indian government launched the first green bond on the London Stock Exchange to raise
capital for the National Clean Energy Fund, which finances renewable energy projects. Since then,
several Indian banks and companies have issued green bonds, including HDFC Bank, Axis Bank,
and Tata Power.
• In 2020, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) issued guidelines for the issuance of green bonds in the
country, which aimed to promote the development of the green bond market and increase investor
participation. The guidelines specify the criteria that projects must meet to be eligible for funding
through green bonds, including the requirement that they have a positive environmental impact and
that they align with the country's sustainable development goals.
• The Indian government is also looking at ways to create an attractive and conducive ecosystem for
green bonds to flourish in India. The government has also announced various tax incentives and
subsidies to attract more green bond issuers.
• In conclusion, India has been testing the waters of the green bond market as a way to finance
environmentally sustainable projects and promote the country's transition to a low-carbon economy.
Several Indian banks and companies have issued green bonds, and the Reserve Bank of India has
issued guidelines for the issuance of green bonds to promote the development of the market and
increase investor participation. The Indian government is also looking at ways to create an attractive
and conducive ecosystem for green bonds to flourish in India, by announcing various tax incentives
and subsidies to attract more green bond issuers.

5. Citizenship amendment act

• The Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) is a law passed by the Indian government in 2019 that
amends the Citizenship Act of 1955. The law aims to provide citizenship to non-Muslim immigrants
from Afghanistan, Bangladesh, and Pakistan who came to India before December 31, 2014.
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• The CAA has been controversial as it has been seen by many as discriminatory against Muslims and
violative of the Indian Constitution's secular principles. Critics argue that the CAA, along with the
National Register of Citizens (NRC), which is a proposed exercise to identify illegal immigrants in
the country, will be used to discriminate against and marginalize India's Muslim population.
• The Act has also sparked widespread protests across the country, with many civil society groups and
opposition parties calling for its repeal. The Indian government has defended the CAA, arguing that
it is intended to provide a path to citizenship for persecuted minorities from neighboring countries
and that it does not discriminate against any particular religious group.
• In the court, the act has been challenged in the Supreme court of India, and the matter is still
pending. It has been stayed from being implemented till the final judgement.
• In summary, The Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) is a law passed by the Indian government in
2019 that amends the Citizenship Act of 1955. The law aims to provide citizenship to non-Muslim
immigrants from Afghanistan, Bangladesh, and Pakistan who came to India before December 31,
2014. The CAA has been controversial, as it has been seen by many as discriminatory against
Muslims and violative of the Indian Constitution's secular principles. The Act has sparked
widespread protests across the country, and the matter is pending in the Supreme court of India.

6. Current status of Russia Ukraine war

• The current status of the Russia-Ukraine War is that it remains ongoing, with sporadic fighting and
sporadic ceasefire agreements. The conflict began in 2014 when Russia annexed Crimea from
Ukraine, and pro-Russian separatists in eastern Ukraine declared independence and formed their own
government.
• Since then, fighting between Ukrainian government forces and Russian-backed separatists has
resulted in the deaths of over 13,000 people and the displacement of over 1.5 million. In September
2019, Ukraine and Russia agreed on a ceasefire and troop withdrawal in eastern Ukraine, but the
ceasefire has been repeatedly violated, and fighting has continued.
• In recent months, tensions between Russia and Ukraine have flared up again, with Russia amassing a
large number of troops along the border and in annexed Crimea, causing concern among Ukraine and
its allies. Russia has stated that the deployment is part of a military exercise, but Ukraine and its
allies are worried that it could be a precursor to a larger military action.
• The International community including the EU and US, have imposed sanctions on Russia for its
annexation of Crimea and support for separatists in eastern Ukraine. The United Nations and other
international organizations have also been involved in efforts to find a peaceful resolution to the
conflict, but so far, a lasting resolution has not been reached.
• In summary, the Russia-Ukraine War is ongoing with sporadic fighting and sporadic ceasefire
agreements. Tensions have flared up again in recent months, with Russia amassing a large number of
troops along the border and in annexed Crimea, causing concern among Ukraine and its allies. The
International community including the EU and US, have imposed sanctions on Russia for its
annexation of Crimea and support for separatists in eastern Ukraine, and the UN and other
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international organizations have been involved in efforts to find a peaceful resolution, but so far, a
lasting resolution has not been reached.

7. LIC IPO
• Recently, the government-owned Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC) filed its Draft Red
Herring Prospectus (DRHP) for its mega Initial Public Offering (IPO) with the Securities and
Exchange Board of India (SEBI).
• The Government, which owns 100% of LIC, will be offloading 5% of its stake through the IPO. All
the proceeds from the IPO, which is in the form of an offer for sale and is expected to total up to at
least Rs. 60,000 crore, will go towards meeting the Government’s disinvestment target for FY22.
• LIC is fully owned by the government. It was set up in 1956. It has the biggest share in India’s
insurance business.
What is an IPO?
• It is the process by which a privately held company, or a company owned by the government such as
LIC, raises funds by offering shares to the public or to new investors.
o Following the IPO, the company is listed on the stock exchange. Stock exchange is an
organized market for the sale and purchase of securities such as shares, stocks, and bonds.
o A listed company can raise share capital for growth and expansion in the future through a
follow-on public offering or FPO.
• While coming up with an IPO, the company has to file its offer document with the market regulator
Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI).
o The offer document contains all relevant information about the company, its promoters, its
projects, financial details, the object of raising the money, terms of the issue, etc.
o SEBI is a statutory body established in 1992 in accordance with the provisions of the
Securities and Exchange Board of India Act, 1992.

What is an Offer for Sale?

• Under the offer for sale method, securities are not issued directly to the public but are offered for sale
through intermediaries like issuing houses or stock brokers.
• In this case, a company sells securities enbloc at an agreed price to brokers who, in turn, resell them
to the investing public.

What is DRHP?
A Draft Red Herring Prospectus (DRHP) is a legal preliminary document. It serves as an important
communication link between the IPO-bound company and its investors and stakeholders.

Who is allowed to invest in an IPO?

• Qualified Institutional Buyers (QIBs) is a category of investors that includes Foreign Portfolio
Investors (FPIs), mutual funds, commercial banks, insurance companies, pension funds, etc.
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• QIBs are those institutional investors who are generally perceived to possess expertise and the
financial capacities to evaluate and invest in the capital markets.
• All individuals who invest up to Rs 2 lakh in an issue are classified as retail investors.
• Retail investors investing above Rs 2 lakh are classified as high net worth individuals.

Which companies can come out with an IPO?

• In order to protect investors, SEBI has laid down rules that require companies to meet certain criteria
before they can go to the public to raise funds.
• Among other conditions, the company must have net tangible assets of at least Rs 3 crore, and net
worth of Rs 1 crore in each of the preceding three full years, and it must have a minimum average
pre-tax profit of Rs 15 crore in at least three of the immediately preceding five years.

8. US China Trade War

What is the issue?
India can possibly benefit from the production relocation possibilities as a result of the US-China
tariffs and counter-tariffs war.
Who are likely to be the biggest beneficiaries?
• One of the expected outcomes of the US-China tariffs and counter-tariffs is that both the countries
would look to source imports from elsewhere.
• This is inevitable as their respective imports become more expensive.
• A study on the import-substitution impact of more than 7,000 trade items as a result of US-China
trade-spat points to Malaysia, Japan and Pakistan as the likely largest beneficiaries of
importsubstitution.
• This shows that prospects of greater sourcing from India are relatively less.
• Several Southeast Asian countries such as Thailand, Philippines, Vietnam, Indonesia and Cambodia
are also expected to benefit more than India.

What is the reason behind?

• The lesser prospects for India is largely due to the nature of imports that have been subjected to
tariffs by the US and China.
• Food, beverages and vehicles to China have been the hardest hit with regards to exports from US.
• On the other hand, Chinese exports of electrical equipment, appliances, components and machinery
to the US have been affected.
• Most of these items are manufactured products, which are largely assembled and rolled out from
Southeast Asia, Japan and Taiwan.
• It is hardly surprising therefore that import-substitution by large markets like the US and China
would benefit these countries.
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What are the short-term benefits for India?

• In the short-term, import substitution efforts by both US and China would be on getting cheaper
alternative imports, irrespective of locations.
• India is likely to benefit from Chinese efforts to shift to alternative cheaper sources of agricultural
imports.
• India might emerge as a potential location for greater import of soybean by China, though the bulk of
such ‘new’ imports might be sourced from Brazil and Argentina.
• Hence for India, this could be an opportunity for negotiating with China for greater market access of
some more of its agricultural exports.
• China recently relaxed quality barriers for rice and fish oil exports from India.
• This points to the increasing leverage it has obtained with China in agricultural exports, which can be
capitalised further.

What would be the long-term implications?

• India can be a bigger beneficiary of the US-China trade-spat in the long term, because both countries
would gradually witness greater relocation of supply chains.
• Businesses, seeking to avoid tariffs while exporting from China to the US, and vice-versa, would
have incentives to export to these countries from other locations.
• The production relocation possibilities point to greater benefits for India.
• Greater relocation possibilities can be leveraged in case of Automobiles Industry.
• For that, India has to keep tariffs low on vehicles it exports to the US, which can make it as a hub for
export-oriented auto assembling.
• Indeed, while Vietnam tops the list of Asian countries likely to benefit from long-tern relocation of
final product assembling, India follows after Vietnam, Malaysia and Singapore.
• It can similarly benefit as a centre for electrical and electronic equipment, once some of these are
relocated from China.
• However, Vietnam and Malaysia are clearly ahead of India in these sectors, because of their lower
costs and better infrastructure.

What should be done?

• US and China recently announced ceasefire on escalation of tariffs at the G20 Summit.
• But it is not clear if they will withdraw the tariffs they have already raised.
• The recent ease of doing business ranking shows that India fares better in the indicator of ‘trading
across borders’ (80 for India, 100 for Vietnam).
• Hence if this improvement is sustained, then India can effectively compete with Vietnam in
emerging as an important relocation spot.
• Thus, India’s benefits from the trade war are in the longer term and it has to prepare for the long
haul.
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9. Startup boom
According to figures presented in Parliament in December 2022, over the last five years, the number of
registered startups in India have grown from 452 in 2016 to 84,012.
Many of them are located in the cloud, which refers to the servers and data storage that are accessible
through the internet, and storage companies are offering a variety of incentives to lure and retain them.

What is the Role of AWS Cloud Services in India's Start-up Boom? About:
• AWS, or Amazon Web Services, one of India’s largest providers of cloud-based services, has
provided start up credits that allow aspirant startups to use a suite of services from computing,
storage and hosting for free.
• AWS has helped “compress” the lifecycle of a startup, allowing them to become more innovative.
• Cloud services mean that they can simulate experiments on the cloud, run tests, fail, and learn from
it.
• India has the world’s third-largest startup ecosystem after United States (US) and China and
therefore, one of the biggest markets for such cloud services.
• Some of the companies supported by AWS included: HealthifyME, which developed an app called
‘Vaccinate Me,’ which allowed feature phones to book close to 50 million vaccination-appointments.
• AWS also powered the Ayushman Bharat Digital mission as well as the Cowin system for Covid-19
vaccinations.

India’s Cloud Computing Market:

• India’s cloud computing market was expected to grow at 28.1% during the forecast period until
2027.
• The high concentration and increasing number of small and medium-sized businesses in India that
are rapidly shifting towards cloud computing is emerging as the major driving factor for the market.
• Furthermore, growing investment towards the construction of cloud data centres is expected to boost
the India cloud computing market.

What is the State of Start-ups in India?

About:
49% of start-ups are from tier-2 and tier-3 cities.
As of September 2022, India is home to 107 unicorns with a total valuation of USD 340.79 Billion.
According to the India Venture Capital Report 2021 published by Bain and Company, the number of
cumulative start-ups has grown at a CAGR of 17% since 2012 and crossed 1,12,000.

Major Challenges Related to Start-ups in India:

• Lack of Forward Thrust to Innovation: India’s education system lacks vocational training and
industry exposure that keeps students deprived of pursuing innovation. As a result, this makes the
Indian higher education system lags behind in terms of research and development.
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• Lack of Recognition: Since nearly 70% of the Indian population lives in rural areas that are still
deprived from reliable internet access. Consequently, many village-based start-up go unrecognised
and are deprived of government funding initiatives.
• Bootstrapped Nature: For running a start-up, a significant amount of working capital is required.
Many start-ups in India, especially at early stages, are bootstrapped, i.e., self-funded through the
founders’ own savings, since domestic financing is limited.
• Scalability Concern: Small start-ups in India have limited understanding of customers and are
confined to only certain regions, where they know the local language and local people.
• Marginal Penetration in Space Sector: Indian startups in fintech and e-commerce are doing
exceptionally well, but space startups remain outliers.
o Globally, the space economy is valued at USD 440 billion, with India holding less than 2% of
the market.

What are the Government’s Initiatives for Startups?

• Startup India Seed Fund Scheme (SISFS): It aims to provide financial assistance to startups for
proof of concept, prototype development, product trials, market entry and commercialization.
• National Startup Awards: It seeks to recognize and reward outstanding startups and ecosystem
enablers that are contributing to economic dynamism by spurring innovation and injecting
competition.
• SCO Startup Forum: The first-ever Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Startup Forum was
launched in October 2020 to develop and improve startup ecosystems collectively.
• Prarambh: The ‘Prarambh’ Summit aims to provide a platform to startups and young minds from
around the world to come up with new ideas, innovation and invention.

10. Taliban and Female Education

• The Taliban Government in Afghanistan announced that it had decided to indefinitely suspend higher
education for girls.
• The ministry of education said that the decision had been made in a cabinet meeting and would be
effective immediately.
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Background
• After returning to power in August 2021, the Taliban promised a softer rule than Taliban
1.0(19962001) but it has been systematically curbing the rights of its citizens, especially females.
• The Taliban believe in a rigid version of Islam’s Sharia law in which women are not allowed a role
outside the household.
• According to the order issued by the Ministry of Higher Education, women are barred from entering
public and private campuses.
• Afghan security forces were deployed to implement the order which has seen widespread opposition
with some male students walking out of classrooms in solidarity with their classmates.

Taliban and Women

• In a return to policies that were in force during the previous rule of the Taliban, the government has
now decided to restrict the education of women.
• In March, schools were ordered to close on the day they were to be re-opened following the
Taliban’s return to power.
• In the immediate aftermath of their return to power, separate classrooms were implemented for boys
and girls in all educational institutions.
• In November, women were barred from entering amusement parks, fairs, gyms, and public areas.
They are also not permitted to travel beyond the cities they live in unless accompanied by a male
relative or guardian.
• Admissions to universities were allowed but with severe restrictions on the subjects they could
choose. Engineering, Veterinary medicine, agriculture, and agriculture were excluded while seats for
journalism were limited.
• All women are now mandatorily required to cover their faces in public, even women journalists.
• Human Rights Watch recently reported that women civil servants have either been dismissed or paid
a small portion of their salary and asked to stay at home.
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Impact
• 50% of the Afghan population will now be denied the right to education and consequently the right
to dignified labor. Afghanistan now becomes the only country in the world where girls are actively
forbidden a modern education.
• According to a UNICEF report, the deprivation of education for girls cost the Afghan economy $
500 million(2.5% of the country’s GDP) in the past year.
• The report further claims that the entry of three million of those girls into the workforce after
completing their education would have earned Afghanistan around $5.4 million.

Women’s Right to Education

• SDG 4: ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities
for all.
• SDG 5: achieve gender equality by ending all forms of discrimination, violence and any harmful
practices against women and girls in the public and private spheres

International Response
• Western nations like Germany and USA have criticized the move and threatened Afghanistan with
consequences.
• Middle Eastern neighbors like Saudi Arabia and Qatar have responded to the move as disappointing
and a violation of the legitimate rights of all women.
• The promise of international legitimacy and humanitarian aid amid the socio-economic crisis in
Afghanistan is an opportunity for larger countries to influence the Taliban regime to revoke the ban.

India
• India has so far taken a hands-off approach, even attempting talks with the Taliban regime and
reopening its eBBA + MBAssy in Kabul.
• India’s decision to deny to visas to all Afghans will hurt the chances of female students looking to
immigrate in order to continue their education.
• This is an opportunity for India to assume a regional leadership role and exert pressure on
Afghanistan to respect the rights of its citizens.

Doha Talks
• It was a set of negotiations between The USA and the Taliban to end the conflict in Afghanistan
mediated by Qatar in 2020.
• The USA agreed to withdraw from Afghanistan and revoke sanctions on Taliban leaders while the
Taliban agreed to prevent terror organisations from using Afghanistan to attack other nations.
• A prisoner swap and discussions with the elected government were other features of the agreement.

11. AIR India Disinvestment

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• Recently, the government approved the highest price bid of Talace Pvt Ltd, a wholly owned
subsidiary of Tata Sons Pvt. Ltd for sale (Disinvesting) of 100% equity shareholding of Government
of India in Air India (AI).
• The Tatas will own 100% stake in AI, as also 100% in its international low-cost arm Air India
Express and 50% in the ground handling joint venture, AI SATS.

Key Points
Reasons for Disinvestment:

• It is hoped that with AI passing into the private sector, its operations and costs will get streamlined,
services on board will improve and basic services like wi-fi will also be made available.
• A strong international carrier in India will give a boost to the large airports built in Delhi,
Hyderabad, MuBBA + MBAi and Bengaluru which along with AI will be able to win back some of
the tourist dollars from Indians travelling abroad who are currently travelling on foreign carriers.
• A successful turnaround of Air India could also help the Indian economy as it is a well-established
fact that aviation has a multiplier effect on the economy.
• There is a pressure on the government to raise resources to support the economic recovery and meet
expectations of higher outlays for healthcare.

Significance:
• It will save taxpayers money from paying for daily losses of AI.
• It will help push other tough decisions the government is keen on taking.
• It will possibly give the option of flying one more low-cost carrier domestically.

Disinvestment
• Disinvestment means sale or liquidation of assets by the government, usually Central and state
public sector enterprises, projects, or other fixed assets.
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• The government undertakes disinvestment to reduce the fiscal burden on the exchequer, or to
raise money for meeting specific needs, such as to bridge the revenue shortfall from other regular
sources.
• Strategic disinvestment is the transfer of the ownership and control of a public sector entity to
some other entity (mostly to a private sector entity).
• Unlike the simple disinvestment, strategic sale implies a kind of privatization.
• The disinvestment commission defines strategic sale as the sale of a substantial portion of the
Government shareholding of a central public sector enterprises (CPSE) of upto 50%, or such
higher percentage as the competent authority may determine, along with transfer of management
control.
• The Department of Investment and Public Asset Management (DIPAM) under the Ministry of
Finance is the nodal department for the strategic stake sale in the Public Sector Undertakings
(PSUs).
• Strategic disinvestment in India has been guided by the basic economic principle that the
government should not be in the business to engage itself in manufacturing/producing goods and
services in sectors where competitive markets have come of age.
• The economic potential of such entities may be better discovered in the hands of the strategic
investors due to various factors, e.g. infusion of capital, technology up-gradation and efficient
management practices etc.

12. Moonlighting Culture in India

• Recently, Information technology giant Infosys warned its employees against moonlighting,
threatening them with contract termination.
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• The company said that dual employment is not permitted as per the company’s Employee Handbook
and Code of Conduct.
• The tech firm also stated that employees are not allowed to take up roles in other firms without
Infosys' permission.
• Earlier, Swiggy announced an “industry first" policy that allowed moonlighting for its employees.

What is Moonlighting?
• Moonlighting refers to the practice of taking up secondary jobs after regular work hours.
• This secondary job is taken without employers' knowledge and is usually the side jobs taken at night
or on the weekends.
• The phrase became well-known when Americans began looking for second jobs in addition to their
regular 9-to-5 jobs to supplement their income.

What is Driving the Culture of Moonlighting Among Employees?

Work from Home Culture:
Work from home was the new normal and companies could no longer judge the productivity of their
resources through clock in-clock out time sheets, which also gave a boost to moonlighting.
Impact of Covid-19:
• In the year 2020, with the onset of Covid-19 leading to lockdown, the economy started stalling and
hence thousands of employees were laid off.
• This also led to employees searching and/or working for multiple jobs to maintain job security and a
steady flow of income with as many as 70% of remote workers working on second jobs.
To Have More to Spend:
Employees also opt for a second job for additional income if they have low pay at their primary jobs
and need additional source of income to meet their needs or the primary income may not be
sufficient to take care of the demands of their lavish lifestyle.
To Gain Additional Work Experience:
Employees may also consider a second job to gain additional skills or indulge in work profiles they
are more passionate about.
To CoBBA + MBAt Boredom:
Employees also opt for moonlighting to utilize the free time at hand when they do not have enough
work to keep them occupied at their primary jobs or to keep themselves busy throughout the day.

What are the Concerns Regarding Moonlighting?

Legal but may not be Ethical:
There is no overarching law which prohibits a person from doing multiple jobs. However, a person
with a similar nature of jobs may spark confidentiality issues.
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Exhausted Employees:
If employees are working long hours, the second job may cause the employee to become distracted,
unproductive, and neglect job responsibilities because of physical fatigue.
Use of Company Resources:
Employees may use company resources for their second job which increases operating expenses.
Impact on Health:
Poor diet, lack of sleep and exercise can impact employee health.

What about Laws related to Dual Employment?

Scenario in India:
• A person may work more than one job in India without breaking the law.
• However, a person with a similar set of jobs could give rise to concerns about a violation of
confidentiality because many employers include such restrictions in their employment agreements in
addition to prohibitions against holding down multiple jobs.
• Moonlighting could be considered cheating if an employee’s contract calls for non-compete and
single employment, which is the situation with the majority of conventional employment contracts.
However, it is not cheating if the employment contracts do not have such a clause or provide
relaxations.
• Under the Factories Act, 1948 dual employment is prohibited. However, in some states, IT
companies are exempt from that rule.

Scenario in Other Countries:

• Overemployment, which is called dual employment in India, is technically permissible in the US and
the UK from a tax perspective.
• A second employment in the UK could alter a worker's tax status, but it wouldn't be expressly noted
as such to the payroll department of the first employer and would probably go unreported in larger
organisations.
• The US tax system is simpler since it is built on the idea of self-assessment and voluntary reporting.

Way Forward
Deploy Tools and Techniques:
• Many companies deploy tools and techniques to detect and prevent risks associated with
moonlighting such as data leakage and daylighting (working on another job during the working hours
of the primary job).
• Theseb that highlights employees that may be exhibiting behaviours of moonlighting and show
indication of data leakage or abuse of intellectual property of the company.
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Discouragement from Employers:

Employers may discourage their employees from moonlighting out of concerns on conflicts of
interest, impact on primary job performance, misuse of company resources, absenteeism, poor
attentiveness, or fatigue.

Moonlighting As A Choice:
Moonlighting should be a choice unless it affects the efficiency and integrity of employees’ primary
work duty.

Employees’ Responsibility:
• Before looking for side jobs or starting a business, it is crucial for employees to carefully check their
employment contract with their principal job to ensure compliance with any moonlighting policies.
• Moonlighting culture in India refers to the practice of working multiple jobs or engaging in multiple
business ventures simultaneously. This culture is prevalent in India, particularly in urban areas,
where many individuals take on additional jobs or start their own businesses to supplement their
income or to pursue their entrepreneurial ambitions.
• This culture is driven by a number of factors, including the need to make ends meet in a highly
competitive job market, the desire to achieve financial security, and a strong entrepreneurial spirit. It
is also driven by the lack of job security and the high cost of living in India.
• Moonlighting culture in India is particularly prevalent among professionals such as doctors,
engineers, and teachers, who often take on additional jobs or start their own businesses to supplement
their income. It is also common among students and recent graduates who take on parttime jobs or
start their own businesses to gain experience and make money.
• Moonlighting culture in India has both its positive and negative aspects. On one hand, it allows
individuals to achieve financial security and pursue their entrepreneurial ambitions. On the other
hand, it can lead to burnout and stress, as individuals struggle to balance multiple responsibilities and
meet the demands of multiple jobs or businesses.
• In conclusion, Moonlighting culture in India refers to the practice of working multiple jobs or
engaging in multiple business ventures simultaneously. This culture is prevalent in India, particularly
in urban areas, where many individuals take on additional jobs or start their own businesses to
supplement their income or to pursue their entrepreneurial ambitions. It is driven by a number of
factors such as the lack of job security, high cost of living, and the desire to achieve financial
security and entrepreneurial ambitions. It has both positive and negative aspects, and it can lead to
burnout and stress if not managed properly.

13. Gig Economy

• The gig economy refers to a labor market characterized by the prevalence of short-term contracts or
freelance work, as opposed to permanent jobs. In the gig economy, individuals work as independent
contractors or freelancers, often in the form of "gigs," which are short-term, project-based
assignments.
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• The gig economy has grown rapidly in recent years, driven by advances in technology, which have
made it easier to connect workers with job opportunities and to manage work remotely. It has also
been driven by a shift in consumer demand, with more people looking for flexible work
arrangements and a greater emphasis on the experience and skills of the worker.
• In India, the gig economy has been growing as well, driven by a combination of factors such as
increasing mobile and internet penetration, a large pool of young, educated workers, and a growing
number of small and medium enterprises.
• The gig economy in India is especially popular among young and tech-savvy individuals, and it has
been growing in sectors such as e-commerce, transportation, and delivery services. It has also been
growing in traditional sectors such as healthcare, education, and construction, as more people are
turning to gig work as a means of earning extra income or as a stepping stone to starting their own
businesses.
• However, the gig economy in India still faces several challenges such as lack of social security and
benefits, no job security, and low wages. There is also a lack of legal recognition and protection for
gig workers, which makes it difficult for them to access basic rights and benefits such as minimum
wage and health insurance.
• In conclusion, The gig economy refers to a labor market characterized by the prevalence of shortterm
contracts or freelance work, as opposed to permanent jobs. In India, the gig economy has been
growing driven by a combination of factors such as increasing mobile and internet penetration, a
large pool of young, educated workers, and a growing number of small and medium enterprises.
However, it still faces several challenges such as lack of social security and benefits, no job security,
and low wages. There is also a lack of legal recognition and protection for gig workers, which makes
it difficult for them to access basic rights and benefits such as minimum wage and health insurance.

14. Metaverse
• The Metaverse refers to a virtual world that is fully immersive and interactive, where users can
interact with each other and with digital objects in real-time. It is a concept that combines elements
of virtual reality, augmented reality, and the internet to create a shared, three-dimensional space that
can be accessed by users from anywhere in the world.
• The Metaverse is often seen as the next step in the evolution of the internet, with the potential to
revolutionize the way we interact, communicate, and conduct business. It can be used for a wide
range of applications, from online gaming and social media to education, commerce, and
entertainment.
• In India, the Metaverse is still in its early stages of development, but it has a lot of potentials,
particularly in sectors such as gaming and entertainment, education, and e-commerce. In the gaming
industry, the metaverse can be used to create immersive and interactive experiences, while in
education and e-commerce, it can be used to create virtual classrooms and virtual stores,
respectively.
• However, the development of the Metaverse in India is facing certain challenges such as lack of
infrastructure, lack of skilled workforce, and lack of regulations. The infrastructure and connectivity
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in India are not yet ready to support the high-speed and low-latency networks required for a fully
immersive metaverse experience. Additionally, the lack of regulations and standards for the
metaverse can lead to security and privacy issues.
• In conclusion, The Metaverse refers to a virtual world that is fully immersive and interactive, where
users can interact with each other and with digital objects in real-time. In India, the Metaverse is still
in its early stages of development but has a lot of potentials particularly in sectors such as gaming
and entertainment, education, and e-commerce. However, the development of the Metaverse in India
is facing certain challenges such as lack of infrastructure, lack of skilled workforce, and lack of
regulations, which needs to be addressed to fully realize its potential.

IMPORTANT CONCEPTS TO KNOW

ECONOMICS
There are several important terms to study in economics when preparing for a business school interview.
Some of the key terms include:
1. Gross Domestic Product (GDP): The total value of all goods and services produced within a
country's borders in a given period of time, usually a year.
2. Inflation: A sustained increase in the general price level of goods and services in an economy
over a period of time.
3. Monetary Policy: The actions taken by a central bank to control the supply of money and the
interest rates in an economy in order to achieve macroeconomic goals such as price stability and
full employment.
4. Fiscal Policy: The actions taken by a government to influence the economy through changes in
government spending and taxation.
5. Supply and Demand: The basic concept in economics that describes how the quantity of a good
or service supplied and the quantity demanded interact to determine the market price.
6. Market Failure: When the market does not allocate resources efficiently, often due to
externalities, public goods, market power, or information asymmetry.
7. Externalities: The effects of a market transaction that spill over to third parties and are not
reflected in market prices.
8. Public Goods: Goods or services that are non-excludable and non-rivalrous in consumption.
9. Market Power: The ability of a single firm or a small group of firms to influence the market price
of a product or service.
10. Information Asymmetry: When one party in a market transaction has more or better information
than the other party.
11. Opportunity Cost: The cost of foregone opportunities when a decision is made.
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12. Elasticity: A measure of how responsive the quantity of a good or service demanded is to a
change in price or income.
13. Microeconomics and Macroeconomics: Microeconomics studies the behavior of individual firms
and consumers, while macroeconomics studies the economy as a whole.
14. Gross National Product (GNP): A measure of the total value of all goods and services produced
by a country's residents, regardless of where they are located.
15. Balance of Payments: A record of all monetary transactions between a country and the rest of the
world.
16. Exchange Rate: The value of one country's currency in relation to another country's currency.
17. Business Cycle: The fluctuations in economic activity, such as employment and production, over
time.
18. Capital: The stock of physical and human resources used to produce goods and services.
19. Entrepreneurship: The process of creating or starting a new business venture in order to make a
profit.
20. Human Capital: The knowledge, skills, and abilities of individuals that are used to produce goods
and services.
21. Labor Market: The market in which the supply of labor and the demand for labor interact to
determine wages and employment.
22. Law of Diminishing Returns: The principle that as more and more of a variable input is added to
a fixed input, the marginal output will eventually decrease.
23. Public Choice Theory: An economic theory that applies microeconomic principles to the study of
political behavior and policy making.
24. Resource Allocation: The distribution of scarce resources among competing uses.
25. Utility: A measure of the satisfaction or happiness that a consumer derives from consuming a
good or service.
26. Comparative Advantage: The ability of a country or an individual to produce a good or service at
a lower opportunity cost than another country or individual.
27. Economic Efficiency: A state in which resources are allocated in such a way as to maximize the
production of goods and services.

Important interview questions for your reference

Can you comment on this year's budget?
• What do you know about the US-China Trade War?
• Describe macroeconomics. What makes it unique from microeconomics?
• What does "Utility" mean to you?
• What is the law of diminishing marginal utility? Give an example to illustrate. Tell me something
about GST. Tell us how the RBI operates and who is its current governor?
• What are CRR, Repo, Reverse, and Bank Rates, and how does RBI employ them?
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• What do direct taxes and indirect taxes mean?

• What do you mean by a budget?
• What are the roles of the state and the centre in planning?
• What do import and export data mean?
• What does Keynesian theory mean?
• How does economies of scale work?
• What are the core features of Liberalization, Privatization, and Globalization? Describe what you
mean by a normal goods.

HUMAN RESOURCE MANAGEMENT

When preparing for a business school interview for a program related to human resource management, it's
important to be familiar with the following key terms and concepts:
• Recruitment: The process of identifying, attracting, and selecting job candidates.
• Talent Management: The process of identifying, developing, and retaining key employees for an
organization.
• Training and Development: The process of providing employees with the knowledge, skills, and
abilities needed to perform their jobs effectively.
• Performance Management: The process of evaluating and improving the performance of employees.
• Compensation and Benefits: The total package of rewards and incentives provided to employees in
exchange for their work.
• Employee Relations: The process of managing the relationship between an organization and its
employees.
• Diversity and Inclusion: The process of creating a workplace that is inclusive of people from
different backgrounds and perspectives.
• Workforce Planning: The process of identifying and addressing the workforce needs of an
organization.
• Employee Engagement: The degree to which employees are committed to their work and the
organization.
• Succession Planning: The process of identifying and developing employees to fill key leadership
roles in the future.
• Labor Laws and Regulations: The legal framework that governs the relationship between employers
and employees.
• Human Resource Information Systems (HRIS): The technology systems used to manage HR
processes such as recruiting, payroll, and benefits administration.
• Change Management: The process of managing and implementing changes in an organization.
• Organizational Development: The process of improving the performance and effectiveness of an
organization.
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Questions for reference:

1. How, in your opinion, does your academic background relate to the HR industry?
2. What are the three HR characteristics that you value?
3. What do you think about job cuts as a human resource professional?
4. What do you dislike the most about the human resources industry?
5. Have you ever managed a project team? Have you ever dealt with team dysfunction?
6. Have you managed or led a group of individuals from diverse backgrounds? If so, could you tell us
about your experience?
7. How are groups and teams different from one another? Are you willing to work with others?
8. For you, what does self-actualization mean?
9. Could you briefly describe the type of HR environment you would like to work in?

INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY & ANALYTICS

• Information Technology (IT) refers to the use of technology to store, process, and transmit
information. It encompasses a wide range of technologies, including computers, software, networks,
and data storage systems. In a business setting, IT is used to support operations, manage and analyze
data, and enable communication and collaboration among employees and customers.
• Analytics, on the other hand, is the process of using data, statistical algorithms and technologies to
extract insights and knowledge from data, with the goal of supporting decision-making. Business
analytics is the use of data and statistical techniques to understand and improve business
performance.
• Together, IT and analytics are becoming increasingly important in the business world, as
organizations are collecting and storing more data than ever before. The ability to analyze this data
can provide valuable insights into customer behavior, market trends, and operational performance,
which can help organizations to make data-driven decisions and improve overall efficiency.
• In a business school setting, IT and analytics are often covered in courses such as management
information systems, data analytics, business intelligence, and operations management. These
courses cover topics such as data management, data analysis, data visualization, and statistical
modeling, as well as the use of specific tools and technologies for data analysis and decision-making.
• In preparing for a business school interview, it's important to have a solid understanding of the basic
concepts in IT and analytics, as well as the business applications of these technologies. It's also
helpful to have some experience working with data and analytical tools, and to be able to provide
examples of how you have used data and analytics to solve business problems or make decisions in
the past. Additionally, it's important to be familiar with current trends and developments in the field,
such as big data, artificial intelligence, and machine learning, and to be able to discuss how these
technologies are being used in various industries.
• In an interview, you may be asked about your experience working with specific analytical tools such
as Excel, R, or Python, and how you have used them to analyze data and make decisions. You may
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also be asked about your experience working with databases, data visualization tools, and other
technologies used in data management and analysis.
• Additionally, it's important to be able to communicate the insights and findings obtained through
data analysis in a clear and concise manner, and to be able to explain how data and analytics can be
used to support decision-making and improve business performance.
• In conclusion, IT and analytics are key areas of study in business schools, and it's important to be
familiar with the concepts, technologies, and applications of these fields. Having experience working
with data and analytical tools, as well as the ability to communicate insights and findings in a clear
manner, will be beneficial when preparing for a business school interview.

Questions for further reference

1. Can you mention one of the recent cyberattacks that more severely impacted IT firms?
2. What do you mean by Management Information System (MIS)?
3. Can you describe a few uses of artificial intelligence in the field of health?
4. What are your thoughts on businesses that rely heavily on cutting-edge technology like
blockchain, artificial intelligence and machine learning?
5. What differentiates analytics from analysis?
6. Why can't someone enroll in a Data Analytics course instead of starting an BBA + MBA program
at an IIM?
7. What are the current information technology trends?
8. What does the word "technology management" mean to you?
9. Your thoughts on industry 4.0?
10. What distinguishes business analytics from data analytics?
11. How do data profiling and data mining vary from one another?
12. List out some of the finest data analysis tools available.
13. What is meant by "Data Cleansing"? What are the best techniques for doing this?
14. What crucial duties fall under the purview of a data analyst?
15. What are the essential qualifications to become a data analyst?

FINANCE
Finance is an essential area of study for business school students, as it provides a foundation for
understanding financial markets and institutions, as well as the tools and concepts used to make
financial decisions. Some key concepts and terms to study when preparing for a business school
interview in finance include:

1. Time Value of Money (TVM): The principle that money has different values at different points in
time, depending on the rate of interest.
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2. Capital Budgeting: The process of evaluating long-term investments, such as new projects or
equipment.
3. Risk and Return: The relationship between the level of risk and the level of return that an investment
is expected to generate.
4. Cost of Capital: The cost of funds used to finance a business, including the cost of equity, debt, and
retained earnings.
5. Financial Statements: Reports that provide information on a company's financial performance and
position, including the balance sheet, income statement, and cash flow statement.
6. Financial Ratios: Metrics used to evaluate a company's financial performance, such as the price-
toearnings ratio, return on equity, and debt-to-equity ratio.
7. Capital Structure: The mix of debt and equity used to finance a company's operations and growth.
8. Corporate Finance: The area of finance that deals with how companies make financial decisions,
such as raising capital and investing in projects.
9. Investment Banking: The business of helping companies raise capital by issuing and selling
securities.
10. Derivatives: Financial contracts whose value is derived from the value of an underlying asset, such
as stocks, commodities, or currencies.
11. Behavioral Finance: The study of how psychological and emotional factors influence financial
decisions.
12. Financial Markets: Platforms where buyers and sellers come together to trade financial instruments,
such as stocks, bonds, and derivatives.
13. Portfolio Management: The process of creating and managing a collection of investments in order to
achieve a specific set of financial goals.

It's important to note that this is not an exhaustive list and you should also study other concepts such as
International Finance, Risk Management, and Financial modeling depending on the focus of your program
and the school you are applying to.
In addition to understanding these key concepts and terms, it's also important to have a strong grasp of
quantitative skills such as financial modeling, data analysis, and statistical methods. Being able to use Excel
or other spreadsheet software to perform financial calculations and create financial models is an important
skill for a finance professional.
When preparing for a business school interview in finance, it's also helpful to have some real-world
experience in the field, such as internships or work experience in finance or related fields. Being able to
provide examples of how you have applied finance concepts in a professional setting and how you have
contributed to a company's financial performance can make you stand out as a candidate.
Lastly, it's important to stay up-to-date with current events and trends in finance, such as interest rate
changes, stock market fluctuations, and new regulations. Being able to discuss these topics in an interview
can demonstrate your knowledge of the field and your ability to think critically about financial issues. In
conclusion, finance is an essential area of study for business school students and it's important to be familiar
 BBA + MBA Interview Prep Kit

with key concepts, terms, and tools used in finance. Understanding of quantitative skills, real-world
experience, and knowledge of current events and trends in finance are also important when preparing for a
business school interview.

Career opportunities after Bschools in Finance

After completing a business school program in finance, there are a wide range of career opportunities
available, depending on your interests, skills, and experience. Some of the most common career paths for
finance graduates include:
1. Investment Banking: Investment bankers assist companies and governments in raising capital by
issuing and selling securities. They also advise clients on mergers and acquisitions, and provide
financial analysis and valuation services.
2. Corporate Finance: Corporate finance professionals work within a company, helping to make
financial decisions, such as raising capital and investing in projects. They may also be involved
in budgeting, forecasting, and financial analysis.
3. Asset Management: Asset managers invest funds on behalf of clients, such as pension funds and
endowments. They research and select investments, manage portfolios, and provide financial
advice to clients.
4. Risk Management: Risk management professionals help organizations identify and mitigate risks,
such as financial and operational risks. They may also be involved in creating and implementing
risk management policies and procedures.
5. Financial Planning and Analysis: Financial planners and analysts help organizations plan and
manage their financial resources. They may be involved in budgeting, forecasting, and financial
analysis, and provide financial advice to management.
6. Sales and Trading: Sales traders buy and sell financial products, such as stocks, bonds, and
derivatives, on behalf of clients. They also provide clients with financial advice and market
research.
7. Private Equity and Venture Capital: Private equity professionals invest in and acquire companies,
with the goal of improving their performance and eventually selling them for a profit. Venture
capitalists invest in early-stage companies with high growth potential. Both private equity and
venture capital professionals are often involved in the management and strategic direction of the
companies they invest in.
8. Financial Consulting: Financial consultants provide advice and expertise to organizations on a
wide range of financial issues, such as financial planning, risk management, and investment
strategies.
9. Real Estate Finance: Real estate finance professionals work in areas such as commercial and
residential real estate development and investment. They help to identify and evaluate investment
opportunities, structure financing and raise capital for real estate projects.
10. Actuarial Science: Actuaries use mathematics, statistics, and financial theory to assess and
manage risk in industries such as insurance and finance. They often work in areas such as
pricing, reserving, and risk management.
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These are just a few examples of the many career paths available to finance graduates. The specific career
path you choose will depend on your interests, skills, and experience. It's important to note that many of
these career paths may require additional qualifications or certifications, such as the Chartered Financial
Analyst (CFA) or the Chartered Alternative Investment Analyst (CAIA) designations.
In conclusion, after completing a business school program in finance, there are many career opportunities
available in areas such as investment banking, corporate finance, asset management, risk management,
financial planning and analysis, sales and trading, private equity and venture capital, financial consulting,
real estate finance, and actuarial science. The specific career path you choose will depend on your interests,
skills, and experience and may require additional qualifications or certifications.

MARKETING
Marketing is an essential area of study for business school students, as it is the process of identifying,
anticipating, and satisfying customer needs and wants through the creation, promotion, and delivery of
products and services. Some key concepts and terms to study when preparing for a business school interview
in marketing include:
1. Market Segmentation: The process of dividing a market into smaller groups of customers with
similar needs or characteristics.
2. Target Market: The specific group of customers that a company or product is trying to reach.
3. Positioning: The process of creating a unique image and identity for a product or brand in the minds
of consumers.
4. Marketing Mix: The set of tools and strategies used to market a product or service, including
product, price, promotion, and place (distribution).
5. Branding: The process of creating and maintaining a strong and recognizable brand identity.
6. Product Development: The process of creating new products or improving existing ones.
7. Promotion: The communication tools and strategies used to inform, persuade, and remind customers
about a product or service.
8. Marketing Research: The process of gathering and analyzing data to better understand customers and
markets.
9. Digital Marketing: The use of digital channels, such as the internet, mobile devices, and social
media, to market products and services.
10. Consumer Behavior: The study of how individuals make decisions about what to buy and why.
11. Sales Management: The process of planning, organizing, and controlling the activities that lead to the
sale of a product or service.
12. Relationship Marketing: The process of building and maintaining long-term relationships with
customers.
13. Supply Chain Management: The process of managing the flow of goods and services, from the
sourcing of raw materials to the delivery of finished products to customers.
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It's important to note that this is not an exhaustive list and you should also study other concepts such as
service marketing, global marketing, digital marketing, and market research depending on the focus of your
program and the school you are applying to.

Career opportunities after B-Schools in Marketing

After completing a business school program in marketing, there are a wide range of career opportunities
available, depending on your interests, skills, and experience. Some of the most common career paths for
marketing graduates include:
1. Brand Management: Brand managers are responsible for developing and executing the marketing
strategies for a specific product or brand. They may be involved in market research, product
development, advertising, and promotions.
2. Product Management: Product managers are responsible for the overall success of a product,
from its development to its retirement. They may be involved in market research, product
development, pricing, and promotional strategies.
3. Marketing Research: Marketing research professionals gather and analyze data to better
understand customers and markets. They may be involved in market research, surveys, focus
groups, and data analysis.
4. Digital Marketing: Digital marketers use digital channels, such as the internet, mobile devices,
and social media, to market products and services. They may be involved in search engine
optimization, social media marketing, email marketing, and digital advertising.
5. Advertising: Advertising professionals create and execute advertising campaigns across various
media platforms. They may be involved in copywriting, art direction, media planning, and
account management.
6. Public Relations: Public relations professionals are responsible for building and maintaining a
positive image for a company or organization. They may be involved in media relations, crisis
management, event planning, and internal communications.
7. Sales and Business Development: Sales and business development professionals are responsible
for generating revenue for a company. They may be involved in lead generation, sales
forecasting, and account management.
8. Marketing Consulting: Marketing consultants provide advice and expertise to organizations on a
wide range of marketing issues, such as market research, product development, and promotional
strategies.
9. E-commerce: E-commerce professionals are responsible for the development and execution of
online sales and marketing strategies. They may be involved in website design, online
advertising, and customer service.

These are just a few examples of the many career paths available to marketing graduates. The specific career
path you choose will depend on your interests, skills, and experience. It's important to note that many of
these career paths may require additional qualifications or certifications, such as a certification in digital
 BBA + MBA Interview Prep Kit

marketing or in a specific area of marketing like product management, brand management, or marketing
research.

CONSULTING AND STRATEGY

Consulting and strategy are key areas of study for business school students, as they provide a foundation for
understanding the process of solving business problems and developing competitive advantage. Some key
concepts and terms to study when preparing for a business school interview in consulting and strategy
include:
1. Problem-solving: The process of identifying and analyzing business problems, and developing
and implementing solutions.
2. Business Model: The structure and logic of how an organization creates, delivers, and captures
value.
3. Competitive Advantage: The unique advantage that an organization has over its competitors,
such as lower costs, superior products, or better access to customers.
4. Value Proposition: The unique benefits that an organization offers to its customers.
5. Business Planning: The process of developing a plan for the future direction of an organization.
6. Strategic Planning: The process of developing a long-term plan for an organization, including its
mission, objectives, and strategies.
7. SWOT Analysis: A tool for identifying an organization's strengths, weaknesses, opportunities,
and threats.
8. Porter's Five Forces: A framework for understanding an industry's competitive dynamics,
including the bargaining power of customers and suppliers, the threat of new entrants, and the
intensity of competitive rivalry.
9. McKinsey 7S Framework: A framework for analyzing an organization's structure, strategy,
systems, skills, staff, style, and shared values.
10. BCG Matrix: A tool for analyzing a company's portfolio of products or business units based on
their market growth rate and relative market share.
11. Business Process Re-engineering: The process of redesigning and streamlining business
processes to improve efficiency and effectiveness.
12. Six Sigma: A methodology for improving quality and reducing defects in business processes.
13. Change Management: The process of managing and implementing changes in an organization,
including identifying the need for change, developing a plan for change, and communicating and
implementing the changes.
14. Lean Management: A methodology for improving efficiency and reducing waste in business
processes.
15. Balanced Scorecard: A performance management tool that measures an organization's
performance across four perspectives: financial, customer, internal processes, and learning and
growth.
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In addition to understanding these key concepts and terms, it's also important to have strong analytical and
problem-solving skills, as well as the ability to communicate effectively and work well in teams. When
preparing for a business school interview in consulting and strategy, it's also helpful to have some real-
world experience in the field, such as internships or work experience in consulting or related fields. Being
able to provide examples of how you have applied consulting and strategy concepts in a professional
setting and how you have helped an organization solve a business problem can make you stand out as a
candidate.
Lastly, it's important to stay up-to-date with current events and trends in the consulting and strategy field,
such as new business models, technologies, or organizational structures. Being able to discuss these topics in
an interview can demonstrate your knowledge of the field and your ability to think critically about business
problems.
In conclusion, consulting and strategy are key areas of study for business school students and it's important
to be familiar with key concepts, terms, and tools used in these fields. Strong analytical and problem-solving
skills, real-world experience and knowledge of current events and trends in the consulting and strategy field
are also important when preparing for a business school interview.

After completing an BBA + MBA with a focus on consulting and strategy, there are a wide range of career
opportunities available, depending on your interests, skills, and experience. Some of the most common
career paths for BBA + MBA graduates in consulting and strategy include:

1. Management Consulting: Management consultants work with organizations to identify and solve
complex business problems. They may be involved in strategic planning, process improvement,
and organizational change.
2. Strategy Consulting: Strategy consultants work with organizations to develop and implement
long-term plans for growth and competitiveness. They may be involved in market research,
competitive analysis, and business model development.
3. Corporate Strategy: Corporate strategy professionals work within organizations to develop and
implement long-term plans for growth and competitiveness. They may be involved in market
research, competitive analysis, and business model development.
4. Operations Consulting: Operations consultants work with organizations to improve the efficiency
and effectiveness of their operations. They may be involved in process improvement, supply
chain management, and cost reduction.
5. IT Consulting: IT consultants work with organizations to develop and implement technology
solutions that support their business objectives. They may be involved in system design,
implementation, and integration.
6. Human Resources Consulting: Human resources consultants work with organizations to develop
and implement strategies for managing their workforce. They may be involved in talent
management, compensation, and organizational development.
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7. Business Development: Business development professionals are responsible for generating new
business for a company. They may be involved in market research, lead generation, and account
management.
8. Private Equity and Venture Capital: Private equity professionals invest in and acquire companies,
with the goal of improving their performance and eventually selling them for a profit. Venture
capitalists invest in early-stage companies with high growth potential. Both private equity and
venture capital professionals are often involved in the management and strategic direction of the
companies they invest in.

These are just a few examples of the many career paths available to BBA + MBA graduates in consulting
and strategy. The specific career path you choose will depend on your interests, skills, and experience. Many
of these career paths may require additional qualifications or certifications, such as a certification in a
specific area of consulting or strategy.

OPERATIONS MANAGEMENT
Operations and supply chain management are key areas of study for business school students, as they
involve the design, planning, execution, control and monitoring of the processes that create and deliver a
company's products and services. Some key concepts and terms to study when preparing for a business
school interview in operations and supply chain management include:

1. Operations management: The process of designing, planning, executing, controlling, and

monitoring the systems that create and deliver a company's products and services.
2. Supply chain management: The process of managing the flow of goods and services, from the
sourcing of raw materials to the delivery of finished products to customers.
3. Lean management: A methodology for improving efficiency and reducing waste in business
processes.
4. Six Sigma: A methodology for improving quality and reducing defects in business processes.
5. Total quality management (TQM): A management approach that aims to improve the overall
quality of an organization's products and services.
6. Just-in-time (JIT) inventory management: A inventory management approach that aims to
minimize inventory levels by only producing and delivering products as they are needed.
7. Capacity planning: The process of determining the amount of resources required to meet
customer demand.
8. Production scheduling: The process of determining the timing of production activities.
9. Logistics and transportation management: The process of planning, organizing, and controlling
the movement of goods and services.
10. Enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems: software systems that integrate and automate many
of the business processes of an organization.
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11. Supply chain optimization: The process of identifying and implementing the most efficient and
cost-effective methods of managing the flow of goods and services.
12. Project management: The process of planning, organizing, and controlling resources to achieve
specific goals.
13. Sustainability in Supply Chain: The practice of considering the environmental, social and
economic impact of supply chain activities.

It's important to note that this is not an exhaustive list and you should also study other concepts such as
inventory management, facility layout, and production planning depending on the focus of your program
and the school you are applying to.

ANSWER TO IMPORTANT PI QUESTIONS

Who do you look up to? What impact do they have on you?
• I look up to several individuals, but one person who has had a significant impact on me is [Name].
[He/She] is [a successful business leader/ a well-known figure in my industry/ an influential thinker,
etc.] and has achieved great success in [his/her] field.
• What I admire most about [Name] is [his/her] ability to think strategically and make smart business
decisions. [He/She] is also known for [his/her] strong leadership skills and ability to inspire and
motivate teams. [He/She] is an excellent communicator and has an ability to simplify complex ideas,
which is something I strive to do as well.
• [Name] also has a strong commitment to sustainability and corporate responsibility, which is an area
that I am particularly interested in. [He/She] has been able to successfully balance the needs of the
company with the needs of society, which is something I believe is crucial for long-term success.
• [Name] has been a great inspiration for me, and I have learned a lot from [his/her] approach to
business and leadership. I strive to incorporate [his/her] values and principles in my own work, and I
hope to one day have a similar impact on others in my field.

Please describe the historical significance of the areas where you have lived for more than a year.
• I have lived in several different areas throughout my life, each with their own unique historical
significance.
• For example, I lived in [City/Town name] for more than a year. This area is historically significant as
it was a key location during the [Civil War/Revolutionary War/Colonization]. It was the site of
several significant battles and played a crucial role in shaping the outcome of the war. Additionally,
it is home to several important landmarks and museums that commemorate the events that took place
there, and I had the opportunity to visit them and learn more about the history of the area.
• Another place where I lived for more than a year is [City/Town name]. This area is historically
significant as it was a major center of [industry/commerce/culture] during the [19th/20th] century.
 BBA + MBA Interview Prep Kit

Many of the city's buildings and structures from that time period still stand today and have been
designated as historical landmarks. Additionally, the area played an important role in the [labor
movement/civil rights movement/women's suffrage movement], and I had the opportunity to learn
more about the history of these events and the people who shaped them.
• Lastly, I also lived in [City/Town name] for more than a year. This area is historically significant for
its [Ancient Ruins/Indigenous culture/Colonial history]. It was home to several important
[civilizations/tribes/settlements], and I had the opportunity to visit several important historical sites
and learn more about the area's rich cultural heritage.
• Overall, I am grateful for the opportunity to have lived in these historically significant areas, as it has
allowed me to gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of the events and people that have
shaped our world.

Describe yourself in 3 words.

• Determined, adaptable, and collaborative.
• Determined because I set high goals for myself and work hard to achieve them. I am not easily
discouraged and I am willing to put in the effort to reach my objectives.
• Adaptable because I am able to adjust to new situations and environments quickly. I am comfortable
working in different roles, with different people, and under different circumstances.
• Collaborative because I believe that working together with others is the best way to achieve success.
I value teamwork, communication and I am always willing to lend a hand and support my
colleagues.

What do you believe your biggest obstacle would be if you are being accepted into our programme?
• I believe my biggest obstacle would be balancing the demands of the program with my other
responsibilities. Business school is a challenging and demanding program that requires a significant
amount of time and effort. I have a strong work ethic and I am committed to putting in the necessary
effort to succeed, but I also have other responsibilities, such as a job and/or family, that I need to
manage.
• I am confident that I will be able to manage my time effectively and make the most of the resources
and support offered by the program. I will work closely with my professors and classmates to create
a schedule that works for me, and I will make use of the support services available to ensure that I
am able to meet the demands of the program. I also plan to make use of the skills and knowledge I
gain in the program to improve my time management and productivity.
• I am fully committed to making the most of this opportunity and I am confident that with hard work,
dedication, and good time management, I will be able to overcome this obstacle and succeed in the
program.
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What has been the best decision of your life? How

• The best decision of my life so far has been to pursue higher education. This decision has opened up
a world of opportunities for me and has allowed me to gain the knowledge and skills needed to
succeed in my chosen field.
• The decision to pursue higher education was not an easy one. It required a significant investment of
time and money, as well as a lot of hard work and dedication. But the rewards have been well worth
it. Through my education, I have been able to gain a deep understanding of my field, develop my
analytical and problem-solving skills, and gain access to a network of professionals and mentors.
• Furthermore, this decision has also allowed me to have a broader perspective on the world and to
develop a better understanding of different cultures and societies. I have been able to learn from
diverse group of people and gain valuable insights that have helped me grow both personally and
professionally.
• This decision has also helped me to become more self-aware, more open-minded and more curious
about the world around me. It's also allowed me to pursue my passion and to make a meaningful
contribution to my community.
• In short, pursuing higher education has been the best decision of my life because it has helped me to
achieve my goals, to grow as a person, and to make a difference in the world.
MBA PI Kit by ProTalent