A Journey through the IBPS PO Interview: A Candid Reflection

Every year, thousands of candidates aspire to join the ranks of Probationary Officers (POs) in the Indian banking sector. The Indian Bank Selection Board (IBPS) conducts the examination, which is a crucial stepping stone for anyone looking to establish a career in banking and finance. To understand the process more deeply, I recently shared my experience of attending an IBPS PO interview, scheduled for February 10, 2023, at the Patna Republic Hotel.

Setting the Stage: The IBPS PO Interview Process

The IBPS PO interview is a significant part of the selection process for ibps po interviews 2022. Typically conducted at various designated centers across major cities in India, candidates are assigned a specific venue based on their application details. For detailed information on the location and timing of the interview, candidates are advised to refer to the official IBPS website or their individual admit cards.

My Experience: An Unforgettable Interview Day

My interview was scheduled at the Patna Republic Hotel, with a reporting time of 1 P.M. and I was the fourth last in my panel. By the time it was my turn, it was already getting late, and I was feeling tired and exhausted. Despite this, I was ready to face the challenges ahead.

Initial Greetings and Challenges

When I entered the interview room, I began by wishing the panel members good evening. However, the head of the panel, seated in the center, interrupted me, saying, ‘Tell me something about yourself.’ While answering in Hindi, there was an unexpected turn of events. The head of the panel mentioned that people in my area, from the same district, were known for a certain medical practice.

Falsely accused of speaking about the size of an object in inches, I clarified that it was a reference to Gujrati culture, a basic fact about my village. The situation suddenly took a turn with the head of the panel, a well-known figure in the field of homeopathy, asking me to name a few homeopathic medicines and their uses. Unexpectedly, another panel member also belonged to the homeopathy field, further complicating the situation.

Homeopathy and Beyond

With a bit of doteknowledge about homeopathy, I managed to recite a few medication names and their symptoms. The head of the panel appeared delighted by my knowledge and the conversation continued. The panel member began mentioning symptoms, and after I identified the medicine, the head of the panel thanked me and praised my knowledge.

A Twist in the Tale

The panel then moved on to ask about MUDRA loans and their collateral. I provided a clear explanation but was unsure about the collateral aspect. The head of the panel guided me, saying that MUDRA loans are collateral-free. This insight was well received, and the interview moved smoothly.

The POS Machine and Final Praises

Next, a lady panel member queried me on the POS machine. I explained the POS machine thoroughly, which again elicited praise from the panel. The head of the panel, impressed by my knowledge, closed the interview with some final remarks. After a toffee was given to me, I left the room feeling mixed emotions, as I had heard a panel member say something that struck a chord with me: ‘He will only seek treatment’.

A Reflective Conclusion

This seemingly simple remark left me questioning the interview. While it’s natural to feel unsure after such an event, the essence of the interview remains significant.

Lessons and Takeaways

The interview, while challenging, was a valuable learning experience. It highlighted the importance of communication skills and the ability to handle unexpected situations. The remark about my father's occupation, however, has made me question the judgmental attitude of the panel members. Nonetheless, the experience served as a reminder that a thorough understanding of banking and finance is crucial for success in such interviews.

In conclusion, the IBPS PO interview, much more than just a selection process, is a journey that tests your preparedness, knowledge, and composure. It's an opportunity to showcase not just your skills but your ability to handle unforeseen situations with grace and intelligence.

For more information on IBPS PO interview tips, preparation tips, and common questions, you can always visit the official IBPS website or refer to your admit card for guidance.