Personal Interviews: 5 Situations That Can Leave You Stumped

Personal interviews can be a defining moment in any admission process, especially for competitive programs like MBA. However, these interviews often come with unexpected twists and tricky situations that can leave candidates feeling stumped. Let’s take a look at five such scenarios and how you can handle them effectively.

Situation 1: Counter Questions

It’s one thing to say, “I love listening to music,” but it’s entirely different when you’re asked follow-up questions like, “What genre do you prefer?” or “Can you name two prominent artists from that genre?” The situation becomes even trickier when candidates list cliched hobbies like reading but struggle to justify their claims.

To navigate counter questions, be prepared to support your statements with genuine examples or experiences. If you’re caught off guard, it’s better to admit your lack of knowledge and assure the interviewer that you’ll research further. Never try to beat around the bush—it only makes things worse. Remember, as the interviewee, you should aim to steer the conversation in a direction you’re comfortable with.

Situation 2: Stress Questions

Some interviewers intentionally use stress-inducing questions to test your mental calmness. These questions might not be inherently difficult but are often delivered in a harsh or challenging tone. For instance, you might hear something like, “Do you think a fleeting interest in literature qualifies you for English Honours at our college?” or “School-level business models don’t always hold up in real-world management studies.”

The key here is to stay composed and not let emotions show. Understand that these questions are designed to test your resilience, not your knowledge. Respond calmly, logically, and with confidence. Your ability to remain unflustered under pressure can leave a lasting impression on the interviewer.

Situation 3: Questions on Career Switch

Career switches are a hot topic in personal interviews and can be particularly tricky to tackle. While it’s common for engineers to pursue an MBA, less conventional paths—like a humanities student opting for BBA or a doctor transitioning to general management—often raise eyebrows.

The best approach is to be honest about your reasons for the switch. Acknowledge any past missteps in career choices but emphasize your clarity and commitment to your new path. Authenticity goes a long way in earning the interviewer’s trust and respect.

Situation 4: Technical Questions

No matter how much you prepare, technical questions can sometimes catch you off guard, especially for working professionals who may be rusty on academic concepts. These questions are often unpredictable and depend on the interviewer’s personal preferences.

In such cases, it’s better to admit your gaps in knowledge rather than trying to fake an answer. You can suggest discussing a related topic you’re more familiar with. For instance, if you’re a management graduate and don’t remember the details of the BCG Matrix, you could offer to talk about Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs instead. However, avoid suggesting something completely unrelated—it could reflect poorly on your overall grasp of the subject.

Situation 5: “Do You Have Any Questions for Us?”

This parting question may seem harmless, but it’s an opportunity for the interviewer to assess your genuine interest in the institution. Many candidates make the mistake of asking irrelevant questions or focusing solely on monetary aspects, like placement packages.

To stand out, thoroughly research the college by going through its website, brochure, and other available materials. Ask thoughtful questions that reflect your interest in the program, such as its unique teaching methods, notable alumni, or opportunities for industry exposure. Avoid operational queries like “Is the hostel single or twin sharing?” or “How is the food in the mess?” These can make you seem unprepared or disinterested.

Additionally, avoid bringing up placements—it shifts the focus to monetary gains rather than your academic or professional growth.

Final Thoughts

Most MBA aspirants will encounter at least one of these situations during their personal interviews. The key is to remain calm, composed, and confident. Be polite in your responses, yet assertive in your approach.

Remember, the outcome of the interview isn’t always determined by what happens in the room. Factors like the time of day or the interviewer’s mood can also play a role. Stay focused, give your best, and don’t be deterred by external factors. Ultimately, your preparation, attitude, and authenticity will determine your success.