IIM Bengaluru Interview Experience 2023

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Candidate Profile

• Name: XXXXX Sharma
• Background: BBA from XYZ University (8.7 CGPA)
• Work Experience: 2 years in Advertising at ABC Advertising Agency
• CAT Score: 99.3 percentile

Academic Achievements

• Gold Medalist in BBA
• Recipient of ABC Scholarship for academic excellence

Work Achievements

• Spearheaded the launch campaign for a major FMCG client, resulting in a 25% increase in brand awareness
• Recognized as the “Rising Star” at ABC Advertising Agency for outstanding performance

Interview Day Experience

Panel Size: 3 members

Starting Question: Tell us about yourself.

I am Aadhya Sharma, a BBA graduate from XXX University . During my undergraduate studies, I was awarded the gold medal for academic excellence and received the ABC Scholarship for my outstanding performance. After completing my BBA, I joined ABC Advertising Agency, where I have been working for the past 2 years.

Question: How did you prepare for the CAT exam this year, and what was your experience?

I started my preparation for the CAT exam 6 months in advance. I followed a structured approach, focusing on each section individually. I regularly took mock tests to assess my performance and identify areas for improvement. On the day of the exam, I felt well-prepared and confident. The experience was challenging but rewarding, and I am proud to have achieved a 98 percentile score.

Question: Did you meet any other candidates today, and what was your experience?

Yes, I had the opportunity to interact with a few other candidates during the interview process. It was interesting to learn about their diverse backgrounds and experiences. We shared our thoughts on the MBA program and discussed our career aspirations. The interaction was enriching and helped me gain a better understanding of the competitive landscape.

Question: Tell us about your work profile at ABC Advertising Agency. What was the impact of your role?

At ABC Advertising Agency, I work as an Account Executive, managing the campaigns for a major FMCG client. My primary responsibilities include developing creative strategies, coordinating with the creative and media teams, and ensuring timely delivery of campaign elements. I recently spearheaded the launch campaign for a new product, which resulted in a 25% increase in brand awareness within the target market. My efforts were recognized by the agency, and I was awarded the “Rising Star” title for my outstanding performance.

Question: What do you like about your job, and why do you want to pursue an MBA now?

I thoroughly enjoy my work at ABC Advertising Agency. The fast-paced environment, the opportunity to work with diverse clients, and the creative challenges keep me engaged and motivated. However, I aspire to take on more strategic roles and contribute to the overall business growth of my clients. An MBA from a prestigious institution like IIM Bangalore will provide me with the necessary skills and knowledge to achieve my career goals. I believe that the rigorous curriculum, exposure to case studies, and interaction with industry experts will help me develop a holistic understanding of business management.

Question: How do you decide on an advertising channel mix considering the different platforms available?

When deciding on an advertising channel mix, I consider several factors such as the target audience, campaign objectives, budget, and the unique characteristics of each platform. I conduct thorough market research to understand the media consumption habits of the target audience and identify the most effective channels to reach them. I also analyze the strengths and limitations of each platform in terms of reach, engagement, and cost-effectiveness. By creating a balanced mix of traditional and digital channels, I aim to maximize the impact of the campaign while optimizing the budget.

Question: How should IIM Bangalore advertise its other courses like MDP?

To effectively advertise its Management Development Programs (MDPs), IIM Bangalore should adopt a multi-pronged approach:

1. Targeted outreach to corporate leaders and HR managers: Organize events, webinars, and personalized outreach to showcase the relevance and benefits of IIM Bangalore’s MDPs for employee development and organizational growth.
2. Leveraging alumni network: Encourage successful alumni who have attended IIM Bangalore’s MDPs to share their experiences and the impact of the programs on their careers. This will help build trust and credibility among potential participants.
3. Digital marketing campaigns: Create engaging content, such as video testimonials, case studies, and thought leadership articles, to showcase the quality and impact of IIM Bangalore’s MDPs. Utilize targeted social media advertising and search engine optimization to reach the right audience.
4. Partnerships with industry associations: Collaborate with relevant industry associations and chambers of commerce to co-host events, workshops, and conferences that highlight the value of IIM Bangalore’s MDPs for specific sectors or job roles.
5. Offline advertising: Utilize print media, outdoor advertising, and participation in industry events to create brand awareness and showcase IIM Bangalore’s expertise in executive education.

Question: What is the GST rate for print and digital media?

The GST rate for print media, including newspapers and magazines, is 5%. However, for digital media, the GST rate varies depending on the nature of the service:

1. Online advertising on websites and mobile apps: 18% GST
2. Online content platforms (OTT, streaming services): 18% GST
3. Online gaming platforms: 18% GST
4. Online news and current affairs portals: 18% GST

It’s important to note that the GST rates are subject to change based on government regulations and may differ for specific services or products within the media industry.

Question: Who are some of the top advertising personalities in India?

Some of the top advertising personalities in India include:

1. Piyush Pandey: Executive Chairman of Ogilvy India and widely regarded as one of the most influential figures in Indian advertising.
2. Prasoon Joshi: Chairman of McCann Worldgroup Asia Pacific and a renowned lyricist, screenwriter, and poet.
3. Agnello Dias: Co-founder of Taproot India and known for creating iconic campaigns for brands like Airtel and Adidas.
4. Josy Paul: Chairman and Chief Creative Officer of BBDO India, recognized for his innovative and purpose-driven campaigns.
5. Swati Bhattacharya: Chief Creative Officer of FCB Ulka and a champion of gender equality in advertising.

These individuals have made significant contributions to the Indian advertising industry through their creative vision, strategic thinking, and ability to connect with audiences.

Question: What kind of books do you read, and have you read any recent ones?

I have a keen interest in reading books that explore various aspects of business, leadership, and personal growth. Some of the recent books I have read include:

1. “Shoe Dog” by Phil Knight: A memoir by the co-founder of Nike, which provides insights into building a successful global brand.
2. “Atomic Habits” by James Clear: A book that delves into the science of habit formation and how small changes can lead to significant improvements in personal and professional life.
3. “Creativity, Inc.” by Ed Catmull: A book that shares the story of Pixar and offers valuable lessons on fostering creativity and innovation within organizations.

I find that reading books from diverse genres, including biographies, business strategy, and personal development, helps me gain a broader perspective and apply the learnings to my work and personal life.

Question: Can advertising hide real ground issues of a state or country?

While advertising can influence public perception and shape narratives, it should not be used to hide or distort real ground issues facing a state or country. Responsible advertising should aim to inform, educate, and engage the audience while maintaining transparency and authenticity.

Advertising that deliberately conceals or misrepresents important social, economic, or political realities can be considered unethical and may erode public trust in both the brand and the advertising industry. It is crucial for advertisers to strike a balance between promoting their products or services and being mindful of the broader societal impact of their campaigns.

In an ideal scenario, advertising should complement and support efforts to address real ground issues, such as promoting social welfare programs, raising awareness about important causes, or showcasing positive change and progress. By aligning with the principles of social responsibility and ethical marketing, advertising can contribute to a more informed and engaged citizenry.

Question: Which specialization are you looking for at IIM Bangalore, and how does it connect with your past experience?

Given my background in advertising and my aspiration to take on more strategic roles, I am particularly interested in pursuing the Marketing specialization at IIM Bangalore. My experience in developing and executing successful advertising campaigns has provided me with a strong foundation in understanding consumer behavior, market trends, and the importance of effective communication.

Through the Marketing specialization, I aim to deepen my knowledge of marketing strategies, consumer insights, and brand management. I believe that the courses offered in this specialization, such as Digital Marketing, Brand Management, and Marketing Analytics, will equip me with the necessary skills to excel in my future roles.

Moreover, the case studies and group projects in the Marketing specialization will allow me to apply my learnings to real-world scenarios and collaborate with diverse teams. This hands-on experience will be invaluable as I transition into more strategic positions within the advertising industry or explore opportunities in other marketing-related fields.

Question: How do you manage conflicts of ideas with clients?

Managing conflicts of ideas with clients is a crucial aspect of my work as an Account Executive at ABC Advertising Agency. I have developed a systematic approach to navigate such situations effectively:

1. Active listening: I make it a point to thoroughly understand the client’s objectives, concerns, and preferences before proposing ideas. This helps me identify potential areas of conflict early on.
2. Clear communication: I present my ideas and recommendations in a clear, concise, and well-structured manner, highlighting the rationale and potential impact. This helps the client understand the reasoning behind my suggestions.
3. Compromise and collaboration: When faced with conflicting ideas, I work towards finding a middle ground that addresses the client’s concerns while maintaining the integrity of the campaign. I engage in open discussions to explore alternative solutions and incorporate the client’s feedback where appropriate.
4. Providing evidence: To support my ideas, I rely on market research, consumer insights, and industry best practices. Presenting data and case studies helps strengthen my position and builds trust with the client.
5. Maintaining professionalism: Even in the face of disagreements, I ensure that my interactions with the client remain professional, respectful, and focused on finding the best possible outcome for the campaign.

By adopting this approach, I have been able to successfully navigate conflicts of ideas with clients and deliver campaigns that meet their expectations while adhering to the agency’s creative standards.