HR QnA & Feedback - Meritshine

Dear Aspirant,
First of all Congratulations!!! You have already cleared the Mains and
there is only one round between you and your dream job – The interview
round. So pull up your socks and give your best!!!
To aid you in your endeavour Meritshine is presenting you with this HR

QnA & Feedback PDF.
W hat is this PDF?
Over the years Meritshine has helped Bank aspirants in fine-tuning their
HR answers for SBI PO and IBPS PO interviews. To cover all aspects of
HR interview, 35 com prehensive questions have been designed.
Thousands of students have written their answers to these
questions and Meritshine mentors have given feedback to them.
This document has compiled the choicest of responses and feedback
(375 Candidate Response & M entor Review s) from those
thousands of responses and feedback.
This would give you an idea of different situations and different

responses. Our feedback/review on them would give you an idea of
whether the student’s portrayal is apt or not. Combining this
understanding with your answers would help you make super hit
responses for your interview and also ensure that you avoid some
basic mistakes.
W hat to do & w hat not to do before going through this PDF?

You are supposed to go through all the activities in Annexure-1 and
make the first draft of your answers ready before going through this
PDF. Remember: That’s mandatory to get the best out of this PDF. If
you don’t do that you might end up copying someone else’s answer. And
that’s a STRICT NO.
You should not copy these answers. You need to use this document as
a guide to fine tune your answers. Your answers should be first drafted
1|P age
by you with the help of data from your life. And for that activities in
Annexure-1 would help.
How to use this PDF?

For each question there are multiple candidate responses and feedback
given. You need to go through the candidate response first and then
the corresponding mentor review (that follows) to that response. In
some cases the candidates have raised additional queries. These parts as
well as the feedback to these parts have been given in italics. From the
next page there is the table of content. All the questions have been listed
there. Each entry in the table of content is an active link, clicking
which would take you to the corresponding Question’s Response &
Review Area.
W hat if you need m ore of this?

Utmost care has been taken to make this document inclusive and most
of the important responses and feedback included. But if you think that
you would want to see more responses and feedback you can refer to
the links in Annexure-2. These would direct you to the FB posts where
the corresponding question has been discussed and given feedback to.
So Get ready for the last Lap and clear your interview s in Style.
W ish you all the best!
Regards,
M eritshine Team .
2|P age
TABLE OF CONTENT
Q#1:- Tell me something about yourself./Please introduce yourself. (20

Responses & Review)
Q#2:- Tell us something interesting about yourself. (OR) Tell us
something that differentiates you from others. (OR) Tell us something
about yourself that's not there on your CV. (20 Responses & Review)
Q#3:- What is the meaning/significance of your name? / Have you ever

researched your name? / Do you believe your name correctly defines
who you are as a person? (10 Responses & Review)
Q#4:- What is your native place? / What is your native place famous for?
/ Are you proud of belonging to this place? / Do you think you would
ever want to do something for it after becoming successful in life? If yes,
how? (20 Responses & Review)
Q#5:- What is the significance of your date of birth? / Do you know of

somebody important with whom you share your birthday? Are you proud
of it? (15 Responses & Review)
Q#6:- Tell us something about your family. / How many siblings do you
have? What impact did they have on you while growing up? / What is
your father's occupation? / Why don't you join your family business? (20
Responses & Review)
Q#7:- Did you prepare for the interview? / What all did you prepare? /
From what areas would you want us to ask you questions on? / Did you
go for coaching to prepare? / Did your coaching institute tell you how to
answer the questions? (20 Responses & Review)
Q#8:- Why do you want to work for a bank? / Why do you want to work
for a public sector bank? / Why do you want to work for a particular
bank (if it’s a specific bank interview like SBI, Canara PG etc.) / What is
your interest in the banking industry? (15 Responses & Review)
3|P age
Q#9:- Tell us about your educational background. / What did your
education teach you? / Were you fond of your teachers? / Were you a
good student? / If you are given a chance, would you want to change
your stream of study? (10 Responses & Review)
Q#10:- How would your education help you do your job better when
working for the bank? / Don't you think you would be wasting your
education by getting into a bank? / Why should an engineer/science
graduate be looking for a bank job? (10 Responses & Review)
Q#11:- Why is there a gap in your studies? Did you flunk? / What were
you doing all these years? / Do you think it's the right thing for a
graduate to sit at home to prepare for these exams? / We have
interviewed so many candidates who have been working while doing this
preparation, so why could you have not done the same? (10 Responses
& Review)
Q#12:- Why do you want to leave your current job? / Are you not happy
with your current job? / Are you sure you would like this job with our
bank? (5 Responses & Review)
Q#13:- What do you do in your free time? / What hobbies do you

pursue? / How do your hobbies help you in becoming a better individual?
(20 Responses & Review)
Q#14:- What are your strengths? / Why do you consider them as your
strengths? / Can you think of a situation where "this" actually helped you
get out of a tight spot? (15 Responses & Review)
Q#15:- What are your biggest weaknesses? / How are you trying to
overcome them? / How would you be able to deliver in your job with
such kind of problems? (20 Responses & Feedback)
Q#16:- What is your ambition in life? / What is your career ambition?/

Where do you see yourself 5/10/20 years down the line? (10 Responses
& Review)
4|P age
Q#17:- What has been your biggest achievement in life till date? / What
have been a few of your happiest moments in life? / Tell us about
something that you have done that you are really proud of. (5 Responses
& Review)
Q#18:- What has been the saddest moment in your life? / Is there
something in your life that you regret and wish you could change? (5
Responses & Review)
Q#19:- Do you care for the society? / What are the social issues you
care about? / Do you do anything about them? (10 Responses & Review)
Q#20:- What would you do if you are not selected here? / What is your
back-up plan if we don't select you? (5 Responses & Review)
Q#21:- We have interviewed so many amazing candidates here. You

think you stand a chance? / Why do you think you should be selected?
Q#22:- You come across as a good candidate. We are happy with your
performance. But there are limited vacancies. Now tell us a reason for
which we should not select you. Help us. (15 Responses & Review)
Q#23:- What are the challenges of a working in a bank? Do you

understand them? If yes, why are you still willing for this job? (5
Responses & Review)
Q#24:-Would you be interested in exploring opportunities in private
banks after working here for a few years? If no, why not; they may pay
better? If yes, why should we hire you, train you? (10 Responses &
Review)
Q#25:- Since you don't seem interested in working in the private sector,
are you looking for government jobs or openings in other public sector
units? Tell us about it. (5 Responses & Review)
5|P age
Q#26:-Who is your role model? / Who is your childhood idol? / Whom do
you idolise? / What qualities of this person appeal to you, and what have
you learnt from him/her? (5 Responses & Review)
Q#27:- Are you a team player? / Do you prefer working alone or in

teams? / How important is teamwork for the success of an organisation?
Q#28:-How do you define success? / What is the meaning of success for
you? / What would you want to achieve to consider yourself successful?
Q#29:- How do you handle stress? / How do you behave under
pressure? / Can you give your best when put under stress? / Do you feel
like giving up at times when put under a tremendous amount of
pressure? (10 Responses & Review)
Q#30:-What are you passionate about? / What motivates you? / What is

your driving force in life? (10 Responses & Review)
Q#31:- How do you handle criticism? / What do people generally criticize

you about? / Do you agree with them? If yes, what are you doing about
it? (5 Responses & Review)
Q#32:- Do you lose your temper ever? / What makes you angry? / Do
you think it is a weakness? / When did you get really angry last time? (5
Responses & Review)
Q#33:- What are your views about work-life balance? / Would you be
willing to take your work home? (5 Responses & Review)
Q#34:- Suppose you get this job. If you are convinced that your boss is
not doing the right thing on some matter, what action would you take?
Q#35:- Do you have any questions for us? / Would you want to ask the
panel something before you leave? (Responses & Review)
6|P age
*********Start of Questions and Answ ers********
Q#1:- Tell me something about yourself./Please introduce
yourself.
Candidate Response#1:
My name is XXX. I'm born and brought up in Pali (Rajasthan). I did my
secondary and higher secondary from Pali. I had done bachelor and
masters in Commerce from Pali. I'm from a middle class family. My
father is a cloth commission agent and my mother is house wife. My
elder brother is doing job in HDFC as a B.S.O. I have excellent
communication skills. My area of interest is to make new friends, learn
new things, playing chess, badminton and making sudoku puzzles in
newspaper. I'm quick and good learner.
M entor Review :
This is a personal interview. The panel doesn't need data about you, it
needs information. Know the difference?
1st is what you can do at this point? (like a robot's capabilities)

the 2nd is what you are today, how you have become this- It's like a
story (much more human).
Whom would you prefer 1st or 2nd. Obviously the 2nd one...
It's interesting, it's human, and it speaks a lot about your personality. So
reframe your answers. You have the data, it will not be difficult. But it
will take 2-3 days.
You can take help of the basic interview lectures (HAPI-G and
Flowchart) & Interview Playlist
7|P age
I'm XYZ from Amravati Maharastra. After the demise of my father there's
my mother and younger sister only in my family!
Coming to my schooling background, I did my SSC from Shri Samarth
high school Amravati and have secured 90.61% in the same. I was the
monitor of my class from 8th to 10th. I was also an active participant of
competitive examinations. I secured ranks in NTSE AND MTSE in my
school days and I was the part of our football team which was runner up
on divisional level and I was the goalkeeper. I did my HSC from Shri
Brijlal Biyani Science College, Amravati and have secured 83.33%.
Also I'm a mechanical engineering graduate from Sinhgad academy of

engineering, Kondhawa, Pune. I was the student's representative of the
art circle of my college for 2 years which has helped me to gain
experience of managing a team of 30-40 people and also had an
additional responsibility of managing the budget of the art circle and also
our college fest which has inclined me towards banking.
I was also the part of the team which was runner up in “firodiya
karandak 2014” and had responsibility of lights department.
After graduation I appeared for RRB 's exam for junior engineer and got
selected as junior engineer in Indian railways which I'll be joining if I'm
not selected here!
M entor Review :
Cut it short a bit. Be crisp. Avoid using so many “Also”. Content is good.
But elaborate lines like this is not needed: “I did my HSC from Shri Brijlal
Biyani Science college, Amravati and have secured 83.33%”
Also Remove the last part of the line below. Not needed. It's obvious.
Why mention it?
“After graduation I appeared for RRB’s exam for junior engineer and got
selected as junior engineer in Indian railways which I'll be joining if I'm
8|P age
not selected here!”
My name is XXX. I am from Firozabad. My parents are teachers in a
private institute. I did my schooling in Firozabad and I completed my
B.Tech from Madam Mohan Malviya University of Technology,
Gorakhpur. I have been an active member of the cultural team in my
college that really helped me to be a good team member and added
some management skills in my personality too that will help to work
effectively as a banker. In my spare time I love listening songs and
playing table tennis.
M entor Review :
Don’t make a direct reference to being a banker from your skills in Intro.
It is too desperate a measure. You write well but it's not well oriented.
Why college name is necessary?
You need to work on the flow and effectiveness. Ask questions to
yourself:-
How did your parent’s profession effect your personality?
How schools effect your personality? Etc.
To get more clues go through the Interview-1(HAPI-G) lecture once.
I am XXX. I have done ba from DOABA college jalandhar and did my
MBA from Guru Nanak Dev Univeristy Amritsar. My major was marketing.
I like to read newspaper and literature.
M entor Review :
This response is inadequate. Please understand, to be concise in
interview, your prepared answer should be an extended one because in
9|P age
interview you will forget some of it and therefore your answer would be
smaller than what you have prepared. Now intro should consist of your
high points in life, leading to your current personality. To write an
effective intro you need ask questions like - What am I good at? What
interests me most? Etc.
To get a step by step process go through the Interview basics lecture

first (HAPI-G & Flowchart). It will take 2-3 days to finalise your draft,
but it would be worth it.
I am XXX. I belong to “YYY” Sarani in “ZZZ” which comes under South 24
pgs in the Indian state of West Bengal. I have completed my post
graduation from University of Calcutta in the year 2015. I feel I am quite
good at communicating with people and this is a must to understand the
needs of the customers in a bank and satisfy them. As far as my family is
concerned, my father works in CESC LTD and my mother is a
homemaker. My hobby is cooking. It teaches me to be patient and
innovative. This is a brief summary of my journey so far. Thank you.
M entor Review :
Strength, Hobbies, linking hobbies to strength- These aspects of your
answer has been good.
Things to take care of:-
1. Don't make direct associations of your strengths and banking job.

Those are to be made when you are asked specifically. In such
cases, you can start with "Sir as I said I am ....." and then make
the link then. But don't do it in Intro.
2. Too much data without discussing their significance. Your exact

address (why do you need to give that), your graduation university
etc. Now these data can be there along also may be your
10 | P a g e
graduation topics etc. but only when you want to use it in some
way to relate to your learning of life or personality.
So reframe it.
You should go through the Basic Interview lectures (HAPI-G and

Flowchart) to direct you in this.
My name is XXX. I have been born and brought up in Osmanabad, I did
my schooling from my hometown. I was topper in matriculation. I have
graduated in Engg, computer science, from Terna college of Engg. I was
an active member from my schooling to graduation. I participated in
several projects, and was team leader at NSS camps. I belong from a
middle class family. My father is retired bank servant, and is now looking
after our farming and my mother is house wife. My eldest bro is again
working in credit society, younger one works in our farm. I was selected
finally in RRB, gramin bank of arywart, in 2015. I’m talkative and I like to
make friends. I have done anchoring during college functions. I have
good communication skills. My area of interests are listening to music,
and playing chess. I’m a quick and good learner and I have interests in
learning new things.
M entor Review :
Good One... Check grammatical constructs and then rehearse it well.
Also don’t use ‘bro’- use brother.
My name is XXX. My Home town is Bhopal. I have Work experience of 3
Years as a Manager in one NGO named “YYY” in Betul (MP). There, I
handled Health related Camps & programmes and also Organised Digital
Learning camps. Before, the above, I did my Engineering from
11 | P a g e
Priyadarshini College of Engineering in Nagpur. Before graduation, I did
my Schooling from D.A.V. PUBLIC School, in Dhanbad, Jharkhand. At
Present, I am preparing for Bank Exams and doing my best to grab this
premium SBI PO job.
Mentor Review:
Too many "before that". Create a flow. Also where are strengths and
interests? Include them. Intro is like a trailer. You need to make people
interested in you. Go through the basic lectures of Interview (HAPI-
G and Flowchart) and reframe this.
My Name is XXX. I was born in Jammu and brought up in different states
of India but my native place is Bhadrak district, Odisha. I am a graduate
in Mathematics from Fakir Mohan University in 2014 and I have also
done PGDCA. My schooling is done from Kendriya Vidyalayas.
My family consists of 4 members, my parents and one elder sister. My

father is a retired army personnel and my mother is a home maker.
Coming to my hobbies, I like bicycling a lot and writing.
M entor Review :
This response is inadequate. An intro is like a trailer.
It should consist of your high points in life, leading to your current
personality. To write an effective intro you need to ask questions like -
What am I good at? What interests me most? Etc. To get a step by step
process go through the Interview basics lecture first (HAPI-G &
Flowchart). It will take 2-3 days to finalise your draft, but it would be
worth it.
12 | P a g e
My name is XXX. I was born and brought up in Kotli Mian Fateh, Jammu.
I did my schooling from Pragmatic School, JK BOSE and Bachelor of
engineering in Mechanical stream from MBSCET, Jammu University in
2017.
In my free time I do blogging and watch Korean shows. Currently apart

from doing preparation of banking exams, I give home tuitions and also
work as a content writer in gradeup and testbook.
My father is a retired library attendant and mother is a home maker. I

considered my father as My Idol.
M entor Review :
You can think of linking some strength of yours with your interests. Your
answer is decent now but you can create a better one. You can skip
names of schools to make it crisp. Prepare for cross questions on
blogging, Korean shows and your father.
I’m XXX, an engineering graduate, quick learner, smart and obedient
worker. I love music and sports and so they’ve become my hobbies as
well.
I’m a debutant in this field but owing to my quick learning ability I feel
that I can do well with your assistance. Finally, I’m waiting for an
opportunity like this to showcase the best of my attributes to be
productive both for self and the firm.
M entor Review :
Your intro has all the right elements (i.e data) but it doesn't look
personal. Remember, it's a personal interview, the answers should not
sound generic, and they have to have a personal touch.
13 | P a g e
Eg: - While discussing hobbies you can say “My interests in playing
games (discuss about the active involvement you have in a particular
sport) has over the years, given me a tenacity to perform in physically
strenuous circumstances.” These are my words, you need to frame
yours, but hope you got the idea.
Also avoid direct connection of your skills and job profile in your intro.
Reserve it for when asked scenarios.
My name is XXX. I was born and brought up at Pataudi a small town in
Gurugram district of Haryana and recently I am staying with my sister in
law in Jaipur. I have done BSC (H) mathematics from Delhi University.
My hobbies are cooking and sports. That's all about me.
M entor Review :
Your intro should have some interesting things about you. Avoid
irrelevant points like "living with sister in law" etc. Tell about your
strengths, interests, and your journey till now.
My name is XXX. I am from Ghaziabad Uttar Pradesh. My father is an
Astrologer and my mother is house wife, I have two younger sisters. I
did my schooling from Ghaziabad and I did Graduation in bachelor's of
commerce from Ghaziabad. I completed my graduation in 2018 and now
preparing myself for bank exams as well as persuing master's degree in
commerce. If I talk about my strengths then My family is my strength. I
like to read story books, playing badminton and listening songs too but
the one major drawback is I get nervous very soon. I am trying to
improve myself and correct my mistakes. Sir, kindly tell me how I can
improve myself.
14 | P a g e
M entor Review :
First Good things: - Included personality traits like strength, interests etc.
Unnecessary things: - Weakness. I understand that you are trying to
make weakness a differentiating factor in your intro, and trying to direct
next questions towards that area, but it is unwarranted. Also you need to
be very confident to pull it off, but then if you confidently pull it off the
weakness it becomes untrue. Got it? So avoid it.
Focus on other things. Think Intro as a trailer. Normally trailer will have
the high points, yes I agree some quirky trailer bank on the have nots
rather than the haves but it's too much risk and with much less return.
So Avoid it.
Areas of Improvement: - Try linking interests and strengths (if not for all
but some) that ways the narrative will have a story feel to it making it
more interesting.
I am XXX from Bhilai Chhattisgarh. I completed my graduration in
electronics and telecommunications engineering in 2015 after that I
wanted to prepare for govt service but my friend suggested me for
preparing bank exam. I have 2 younger siblings, they are studying in
college. My father is a BSP employee and my mother is a homemaker.
My hobby is dancing and reading books. I am a quick learner and I am
friendly in nature.
M entor Review :
You are preparing for Banking because your friend suggested it???
Don't you think that's not an enough reason for a career choice?
Also XXX, the overall response is inadequate. It talks less about you and
more about your surroundings. Kindly reframe the answer. Make it a
small summary of high-points of your life till now.
15 | P a g e
Go through the basic interview lectures (HAPI-G) & (Flowchart)
and also the Interview playlist to get an idea of how to start. It will
take 2-3 days to finalise the draft but it would be worth it.
My name is XXX. I am for Allahabad, UP. I have completed my schooling
from my home town. I have pursued my graduation in Civil Engineering
completing it in 2014. I have previously worked for an IT company in
Pune where I was a part of Incident Resolution team for an American
Electricity Utility Client.
My father is a retired Automobile Engineer and my mother is a

housewife. I have a younger brother who is currently pursuing
graduation. My strengths are good Communication Skills and I am a
good team player. My Hobbies are playing and watching football and I
like to explore and listening to music enthusiastically. I developed an
inclination for banking by reading a lot about finance related articles in
newspapers and banking sector also provides decent career growth.
M entor Review :
This will do. If you are comfortable with the flow and delivery, you can
make a good start. 2 things in this you need to take care.
1. Avoid vague meaning words like decent career growth.
2. What does "listening to music enthusiastically" mean?
Myself XXX. I am from Jammu. My father is in police department and my
mother is a home maker. I have a younger brother. I did my schooling
from Jammu and throughout my school days, I had been the monitor of
my class and an active participant in co curricular activities. I pursued
16 | P a g e
engineering in E&C and after that started preparing for banking
examinations.
One thing that really helped me through all these years of preparation is
my ablity to stay calm in a stressful condition and my self-motivating and
positive attitude. In my free time I like to listen to music which helps me
relax. Also I spare two hours every day to teach kids in my locality who
cannot afford private tuitions and this keeps me well informed and
makes me happy
M entor Review :
Good, but can be better. Linking your life's experiences to your skill set is
the right way to do it.
2 things need to be taken care of:-
1. What helped you in your preparation? You are still in preparation- this
seems fine when you are guiding another person who is preparing but
not in interview. If you want to talk about these personality traits, link it
with your education and experiences till now.
2. 'Myself XXX' is wrong grammar. Use I am XXX or My name is XXX
My name is XXX, I am from a semi urban town Guna which exposed me
to both rural and urban India altogether. This exposure helped me to
develop as a better person.
I completed my graduation in CS from GVC which is in my hometown

itself, I completed my schooling from presidency senior secondary
school. I was the topper of my school. My father Mr. YYY, is a kirana
merchant and my mother Mrs. ZZZ is a home maker and my elder sister
is Mrs. ABC. I assist my father at our shop, because of that I am
17 | P a g e
frequently in touch with rural India. I love solving puzzles specially
Sudoku.
M entor Review :
At your age, only saying in a general way about rural and urban area is
not mature. Either be a little specific by saying "challenges of rural area"
etc. or reframe this answer. Also, your intro answer would not do. Go
through the basic interview lectures and re-frame this.
My name is XXX. I am basically from Gwalior, M.P. I was born and
brought up in Bokaro steel city as my father is DGM in Bokaro steel
plant. My mother is a housewife. I did my schooling from ABC Bokaro
and I was the district topper in economics in class 12 cbse board exams
and was ranked 3rd among the merit scholars in the same exams.
Then I graduated from Jiwaji University, Gwalior and was university gold
medalist in BA. My younger sister is pursuing BTech EEE from vit.
Currently, I live in Rajkot district, Gujrat. My husband is a branch
manager in UBI in Rajkot district and I have a daughter who is 10
months old. My hobbies are singing and cooking. I have learnt Indian
classical music and represented my college in singing competitions. I also
like to play basket ball. I also represented my university and i was even
the captain of my team. My strengths are positive attitude, focus,
hardworking and I always work to be a better person.
M entor Review :
Not bad but don't stop here. Once you have prepared the other HR
questions, revisit this questions again in a couple of days. You will see
new perspective and that will help you modify this answer.
Oh and by the way avoid using fillers like "basically from gwalior"- "I
(live/belong) (in/to) Gwalior" is the right usage.
18 | P a g e
My name is XXX. I was born and brought up in Datia, MP- City of
Pitambra mai. I completed my schooling as well as graduation from Datia
itself. I was a topper of my college. As I am a very active person and a
good learner my teachers used to give me the opportunity of hosting the
programmes. I hosted many big local functions which helped me in
improving my communication skills as well as build self confidence in me.
I have learnt to manage so many things on my own. And also people get
impressed by me very early so they come in my favour.
M entor Review :
Overall it's good. Linking your activities to strength is the right way. It's a
little short though. Another 2-3 lines would be better. But don’t force-fit.
Write the rest of the questions and then revisit this in a couple days. If
the new perspective helps you to add something then do so.
Don’t write the last line "also people get......my favour"- it's vague.
My name is XXX. I was born and brought up in the golden city of Punjab
i.e. Amritsar. I've done my graduation with 73% marks from DAV College
Amritsar. I did my HSC in non medicals from DAV school Amritsar with
76% marks. In my family including me there are five members. My
father runs a store my mother is a home maker. I have 2 elder sisters
and they both are married. My major strength is that I always take full
responsibility of the task given to me. This strength has helped me
various times while studying and it would for sure help me in future
when I'll switch my career to banking. In my free time I like to play
snooker, watch cricket and listen to some classic music by Kishore
kumar. I also like to watch videos of motivational speakers over internet.
19 | P a g e
My short term goal is to get a job in a reputed bank like yours where I
can utilize my skills and improve my career path. My long term goal is to
be at a position of higher responsibility in the same organization. Well
that was just a brief summary of my journey so far, however if you
would like to know any further details i would be glad to share it.
M entor Review :
This is good. Go ahead with this. But don't need to tell your %ages and
school etc. That's already there in your CV.
First of all thank you for giving me this wonderful opportunity.
My name is XXX. I was born and brought up in Kanpur. I had done my
schooling from Kanpur itself. Recently, I completed my bachelors in
technology (mechanical engineering) from PSIT, Kanpur. I had done my
summer training at Tata Motors; Jamshedpur from where I learned how
an organisation works and their work culture and the most important
things I learned is to be disciplined and to be passionate about your
work.
My hobbies are traveling and exploring places. Travelling has helped me

to interact well with people by knowing them and it has also improved
my communication skills. It also made me adaptable to any place or
situations.
I also love adventurous sports like trekking, hiking, mountain biking.

Trekking has helped me stay calm and composed under pressure, it also
helped to build decision taking ability and the most important things I
learned is leadership and management skills as I was the team leader for
the treks. I also love to read novels as it motivates me to work hard and
move further by improving yourself every day.
M entor Review :
20 | P a g e
This is good. Freeze it.
Q#2:- Tell us something interesting about yourself. (OR) Tell us

something that differentiates you from others. (OR) Tell us
something about yourself that's not there on your CV.
I am an honest person and ready to push my limits to achieve my goals.
I am an extremely self-motivated person; I don't lose hope easily &
always try to do my best to keep going in life. For example, I had a
major setback when I wasn't able to clear the SSC CGL mains and at the
same time I failed in the typing test of SSC CHSL but I didn’t lose hope, I
tried to introspect and analyzed what went wrong. I learned from my
mistakes and now I am here in front of you.
M entor Review :
Remove that SSC example. You may mention it if they ask.
Most people after getting what they want in their life sit back and relax
but I believe one has to experiment with oneself. I always try to explore
myself so I always learned something new like dancing, playing musical
instruments, making different dishes etc. which actually enhanced my
personality.
M entor Review :
Remove the negative part about others. Talk about yourself in a humble
manner.
21 | P a g e
1) Interesting about myself: I love to visit different places.
2) Things that make me different from others: I do not believe in saving

a lot of money for future because future is unpredictable. No one knows
whether he/she is going to survive after 60 years or not...So, why
spoiling our present as we need to save for retirement and blah blah.
One should enjoy his/her present...spend money on those things which
makes them happy...with little savings for future.
3) Something that is not mentioned in my CV: I become too nervous

when I have to do drama in front of audience. But once, in my college
function, I have performed the role of NRI lady whose husband was lost.
I was quite nervous but everyone enjoyed my performance.
M entor Review :
Frame this well. It's ambiguous. First of all in the 2nd point don't you
think it's too controversial a statement to make? A banker who doesn't
like savings?? Think about it a little. Think on the lines of Savings vs
Investments. Check Grammar too.
I think my best part is my thinking and understanding capacity. I
understand everything very quickly and very properly. It helps me
manage situations by not indulging into fights and arguments and which
in turn solves the problem which I am facing. Also this understanding
ability helps me to adapt better and keeps me calm most of the time.
M entor Review :
Understand everything!! It is too general for what you want to say. See,
this could also mean that you can understand Einstein's relativity very
quickly and properly.
22 | P a g e
But is it so?
So don't generalize. What you want to say is may be that your ability to
handle different interpersonal situation has been good. So say it in words
that mean this rather than something else. Reframe this answer.
I am a very responsible person. If someone has given me some
responsibility or has asked me to do any task, I try to give my best. I like
to keep people faith in me and my work. I have ability to multitask.
During my college when campus placement was being organised I had to
manage my hostel mess as an incharge for 2 months. I have managed
my studies along with my inchargeship and gave my best.
M entor Review :
Good!! Freeze it.
I am an autodidact. Be it about framing the websites using wordpress
and hosting or about porting roms and installing stock roms in an
Android device , I have learnt them on my own with the help of how to
guides available on internet only.
M entor Review :
Autodidact in everything or only technology? Better be specific in your
answer.
1. I don’t get bored easily, even when my phone is dead.
2. This is something that differentiates me.
3. Also I don’t know to swim – this is not there in my CV.
23 | P a g e
M entor Review :
Rethink the second one. You see, in the bid to become humorous
sometimes it may backfire. Also my suggestion is that don't say the third
one.
Though I have written in my CV that I can work under pressure which is
true, but I don't do work in a hurry. I always do my work before deadline
and avoid last minute mistake.
I have a little inclination towards Indian history. Whenever I get time I

read history. I like to teach poor students free of cost.
M entor Review :
Good One. Will do.
I can recite numbers from 100 to 1 in around 31 seconds - the current
world record is of 34 seconds.
M entor Review :
Is this consistent? Because if it is, then you better say it. Also apply for
competing. You can say that also that you have applied.
I don’t give up easily no matter how big the problem is. Rather, I try to
take a break and do what cheers me up and makes me happy in that
time and then I come back to the problem and try to solve that with
calm head and most of the times I end up getting a solution to that
particular problem. I think that’s what differentiates me from others. Also
I like to play chess and feed dogs in my free time - that’s what I have
not mentioned in my CV.
24 | P a g e
M entor Review :
Prepare one or two examples of such a situation. And work on your
language. Use breaks – why so long sentences!!! Avoid using long
sentences. Use short ones.
I feel that I am dedicated towards my goal and I’m not afraid of the
roadblocks that come on my way. Rather, I try to analyse them and learn
from all my past mistakes. For example, I am appearing for the third
time in SBI PO exam. Throughout the past few years, I have been trying
hard. But somehow did not manage to clear the mains exam. I went
back, identified my faults and finally this time I am able to clear the
mains exam. I feel we should never give up on our dream, and this is
what makes me a little different from others
M entor Review :
Sounds good. Don't highlight 3rd attempt too much, why should you...
Just keep it generic. If they ask further, then may be. Think like a
salesperson would. A salesperson would never talk about the limitations
unless he/she is asked about it- Isn’t it?
One very interesting feature of mine is to keep others attentive and
exhilarated all throughout the presentation which I feel is the prime
characteristic any officer should process for better progress of the firm.
No two persons are the same here but if I have to tell you something
that differentiates me from others is definitely my attitude and the way I
decipher things and the ability to keep them fair and transparent.
My strength is my speech which I thought not to mention it on CV as it

seemed exaggerated.
25 | P a g e
M entor Review :
Overall Good. But in the last line eliminate "as it seemed exaggerated"
because it then exaggerates your response (pun intended  )
One interesting thing about me which I didn't mention in my CV is that I
have a little creative mind and with that I love to organise surprise
parties, decoration, cake designs, making photo books, making hand-
made cards. And this gives me happiness.
M entor Review :
"A little creative mind"?? Replace it with something else. Rest is good.
The examples are great. If you do it regularly, you can include some of it
part in intro.
I push myself beyond the limits to achieve what I want. Like in the men’s
single final of our annual sports meet in college, I was lagging behind my
opponent by 10 points. Score was 11-1 in the final set. I was exhausted
half way down the line. But after a minute break when the play resumed
somehow I gathered energy & positivity to come back & eventually beat
him.
M entor Review :
Wow! Very Good. See if in some way you can get this included in your
interview even if they don't ask this question. It is a strong point.
26 | P a g e
I have the ability to multitask efficiently. I can handle multiple
responsibilities at a time and I don’t lose focus, no matter how adverse
the situation is. I always stay positive and optimistic. I remember when I
started my preparation for SBI PO few months back, my baby was 3
months old. Things were very challenging but I managed to take care of
her and even focus on my studies, cleared both the exams of pre and
mains. It’s kind of an achievement for me, where it becomes really hard
for a banking aspirant who fully devotes his/her time and energy towards
a goal, I had different tasks to do, different roles to play simultaneously
and I think I did quite well.
M entor Review :
Very Good!! Perfect. Rehearse your answer well.
I used to write poetry. Whenever I felt demotivated or broken I wrote
something and rest become easy to me, I got state level first prize
during my school days in poem writing. Another quality of mine is to
make people comfortable so they trust me easily and share their problem
without any hesitation and they become comfortable with me.
M entor Review :
Good. Keep handy some of your poems. They may ask you to recite it
there.
I love to learn new things. Around 6 months back, after clearing tier-1, I
had a PET that is physical endurance test for the CPO. Being a girl, as I
am not good at sports, it is very difficult for to do these kinds of athletic
events. But I tried harder and after practising one and half months was
able to crack this. So this is my positive attitude towards challenges and
passion to learn new things that makes me different from others.
27 | P a g e
PS: I am a girl...so mentioned about not being good at sports activity...
and it is true.
M entor Review :
You can keep this answer but remove “being a girl” part. Girls normally
win more medal than boys in India. So, if you’re saying that girls are
normally not good at sports - isn't it wrong and self deprecating?
I work in a nationalized bank in rural area, so I am habituated working
under pressure cheerfully and provide the best services to customers.
A lot of patience is needed to answer different types of queries of coming
from different kinds of persons. I am extremely self-motivating person - I
motivate myself to do my best and try to keep going in my life, even in
depressing conditions. I like to teach. This helps me to learn new things
and also make me feel proud in shaping bright future of students. I am
an ardent learner and try to do more tasks and move ahead quickly.
M entor Review :
Good one. Some of this, I am sure, you will make a part of intro too.
I like cooking. Cooking helps me feel good, make me feel light whenever
I am in dilemma. It is like when you like something you get ideas
through it. Also I love to learn interesting facts about our surroundings. I
think this will help me in my work also. I'll be able to understand people
easily.
28 | P a g e
M entor Review :
Will Do. Be prepared to answer questions regarding surroundings and
cooking.
I don't lose my patience easily and don't get bogged down in difficult
situations which helped me a lot in the past. I was playing with the
present women grandmaster Padmini Rout in an inter school chess
tournament and I was representing my school. The game continued for
as long as 4 hrs and finally I won the game but in between there were
many instances where one wrong move could have cost me the match
but my patience saved the day.
M entor Review :
This is good. Keep some more examples handy.
Q#3:- What is the meaning/significance of your name? / Have

you ever researched your name? / Do you believe your name
correctly defines who you are as a person?
My name is Dhananjay and it means one who wins great wealth, that is
what I aspire to do. It was also the name of Lord Arjuna.
M entor Review :
Work on your words. Wins great wealth sounds like the words of a
gambler. Also, elaborate on it a bit more.
29 | P a g e
Aishwarya means 'wealth and prosperity'. To be very true, I don't think it
resembles me on the basis of my parents achievements and family
background.
M entor Review :
Be optimistic, you can frame it as - even though I haven't done
something to live up to it but I am sure I will do justice to it in the near
future.
My name is Sukanta. Basically it is a Bengali word. 'Su' means ' anything
that is good' and 'kanta' means 'body or physique'. So sukanta means
'one who has a good physique' but the irony is that I'm just the opposite.
M entor Review :
No ironies! Think of a better way to express it.
My name is Ramyata which means beautiful or agreeable or pleasant, it
symbolizes amenity and I completely justify my name as I have a very
beautiful soul.
M entor Review :
Use better words. Don't say "I have a very beautiful soul." You can start
with “My friends believe”.
30 | P a g e
My name is Nivesh and it means investment. We all know the meaning of
this. My father gave me this name because he was student of commerce.
Yeah, I feel this is what defines me well as I really like market and
reading about market ups and down and external impact on any
countries politics and economic balance.
M entor Review :
Well it’s a different answer for sure but whether it would come out good
or bad depends on you. Prepare on the subject of investment. And avoid
phrases like “We all know the meaning of this”
My name is Vyshakh, It means having many branches, and is also
another name of Lord Shiva. Like Lord Shiva, I try to be impartial and
suppress negativity. Even if branches are cut, there will be regrowth. In
relation with banking my name can imply I will be able to expand the
business.
M entor Review :
Well it’s good but avoid direct reference to banking until it’s consistent
with the chat you are having inside the interview.
My name is Kirti; it means fame name and honour. I have always tried
my best to do every work with dedication so as to bring fame and name
and in future too will do my best to bring honour to my organisation
through my work. My name always pushes me to do my best to prove
worth of my name.
31 | P a g e
M entor Review :
Good!! Go ahead.
My name is Tanusree, it means beautiful. To me true beauty refers to an
internal one, not the external beauty. I try to keep things simple, to
analyze my mistakes and correct them whenever needed. I apologize
when I am wrong. All these help me to live a simple happy life and
freshen the beauty of my inner soul. So, I try my best to live up to the
meaning of my name
M entor Review :
Good!! Rehearse it well.
My name is Shikha which means ray of light or peak of mountain. I am
very enthusiastic and a keen learner. I had set my goals high and
worked very hard to achieve them. So yes, my vision is to reach the peak
always. I never get settled for anything less.
M entor Review :
Just tone down on superlatives like "reach the peak always". The first 3
lines are good.
My name is Sarvagya and it literally means someone who knows
everything. Lord Shiva is known as "Sarvagya". It would be incorrect to
state that it defines me totally but yes it acts as a driving force for me to
32 | P a g e
learn new things and yes I believe I have become a better human since I
understood the actual meaning of my name.
M entor Review :
Good!! Freeze it.
Q#4:- What is your native place? / What is your native place

famous for? / Are you proud of belonging to this place? / Do you
think you would ever want to do something for it after
becoming successful in life? If yes, how?
I belong to the Champaran district of Bihar from where Gandhiji had
started his first non-violence movement in India. I am very proud of
being from this place because from here only the key to success for the
movement of India's independence took a credible step.
Sir, I want to improve some situation of this historical place by taking
some steps like promoting girls education, improving the sanitation of
the city, etc.
M entor Review :
Good. But prepare about the Freedom Struggle well.
My native place Rampur is famous for Raza library which is the largest
library in Asia. Besides that, Aryabhatta planetarium is also there which is
the centre of attraction. Rampuri chaaku used to be very famous and
often quoted in movies but after the High Court ruling against it, the
33 | P a g e
industry is badly affected. I am proud to be born brought up & living in
Rampur.
M entor Review :
Well is this the Rampur of Sholay? Don’t reply - I was joking 
Also please check once whether Raza library is still the 2nd largest library
of Asia, because in 2016 after the renovation of National Library of China
(which was earlier the 3rd largest), has become the largest in Asia.
I am from Bulandshar Uttar Pradesh which was once near to the capital
of pandavas- Hastinapur. Sikandrabad, the industrial area of bulandshar
was formed by sikander lodhi. Narora nuclear power plant- the power
plant is in bulandshar. It is also famous for sugar cane production as
many sugarcane industries are there...many great personalities belong to
it, like Bhubaneswar Kumar- Indian cricketer, Yogendra Singh-Param vir
chakar holder of kargil war. I am very fortunate that I born in such a
secular city.
M entor Review :
Good! Know a little background of the things you are mentioning.
I belong to Datia, MP. It is famous for pitambra mai temple. It is a Shakti
peeth. This place is known to fulfill all our wishes. Even Sanjay Dutt
visited here before his imprisonment term for holy rituals. And when it
comes about opening a business, yes surely I would love to do that.
Here sugarcane grows in a very large quantity. So would like to open a
sugar factory. People have already done so in the past but because of
34 | P a g e
lack of proper management they failed. It needs lot of investment and
management. So I would love to work on it after being successful.
M entor Review :
Prepare for the question if you want to open a sugar factory why are you
taking a job? If the answer to that is ready then you can go ahead.
My native place is Ranchi. It is famous for many waterfalls and its good
weather. It is also known for mental asylum. I am proud of belonging to
Ranchi. Famous personality like Mahendra Singh Dhoni also belong to
this place. Many people have an image of Dhoni when they hear of
Ranchi. I would like to extend banking services especially in outskirts of
Ranchi district and in rural areas.
M entor Review :
You can go ahead with this. Just google out some historical things about
Ranchi too.
I belong to Bhubaneswar famously known as the temple city as it houses
hundreds of temples built by various dynasties and showcase the rich
culture and ancient architecture of Kalinga. The Lingaraj temple, the
Rajarani temple, the Mukteswar temple are some of them which attract
tourists from different states as well as abroad. Bhubaneswar is also
acknowledged as the no.1 smart city in 2015 and won the Pierre Lenfant
award in 2017 and became the first Indian city to do so.
M entor Review :
Good Enough. Know about Pierre L'enfant.
35 | P a g e
I am from Proddatur which is known as city of gold. The economy is
mainly driven by gold, cotton business and financing. Hence it is also
known as second Bombay. It is also famous for Dussehra celebrations
and known as Second Mysore and I am proud of my native place. Sir,
here most of the business happens because of people from surrounding
villages. I believe there is more unorganised sector here. Also we can see
people financing (money lenders) here to even big producers for film
industry.
M entor Review :
Good!! Only one question your city is called both Second Mysore and
Second Bombay – Hope this is verified info.
From a banker’s perspective getting cash rich business into organised

banking fold is a dream. So frame it well and definitely use this as a data
in your answer.
My native place is Kerala also called as God's own country. Because of its
serenity, it is the destination spot of tourists all over the world. Tropical
climate is very much favorable for the flora and fauna to thrive. Most
prominent destination spots are Munnar, Thekkady, Allapuzha
backwaters which has the house boat ride, Sasthamcotta lake, Kovalam
beach in Trivandrum, Silent valley which is highly biodiverse, Konni
elephant centre, Ayurvedic Spa treatments and many more attractive
places. Also it’s known to have the highest literacy rate. There are many
eminent people from Kerala- E. Sreedharan - metro man of India, former
president K. R Narayanan, sports person PT usha, Oscar award winner
musician Resul pookutty and many more. I am proud that I belong to
36 | P a g e
this state which has got special place in the heart of people. Also there is
IT sector flourishing in Trivandrum and Kochi. With the August floods
which has battered the livelihood and lives of many people I wish to
contribute more in rebuilding their lives.
M entor Review :
Very Good!! Go ahead.
The world's first Polo club was set up in Silchar in 1859. It is also famous
for cultivation of tea and pineapple. Yes, I am very proud of it and it's an
inner feeling that comes automatically. Yes, I have a dream of investing
in education sector with a better strategy for bringing much
development.
M entor Review :
Good!! Go ahead.
Sir I was born and brought up in Delhi. Delhi is India's capital and
second most populous city after Mumbai, with a population of approx 29
million. Besides being home to famous monuments like Red Fort,
Humayun's Tomb, Qutub Minar it also has 2 magnificent cathedrals-
Sacred Heart Cathedral and Cathedral of church of Redemption.
Description of Delhi would be incomplete without mentioning Connaught
Place which is one of the main commercial areas of Delhi and was
designed by British architect Edwin Lutyens in 1920s and 30s. As of July
2018 CP was the ninth most expensive office location in the world with
annual rent of USD 153 sq ft. Recently Delhi was in news because of its
dangerously high pollution levels.
37 | P a g e
(Ratnabha Sir- a query If they ask what can you do for Delhi – what do I
say?)
M entor Review :
I can understand that you have so many things to talk about Delhi that
you can’t decide which to take and which to not. Just pick up 3-4 things
from different areas and tell them accordingly.
(Now about your query: You can say something about the pollution. Just
google a little what can citizens in their individual or group capacity do?
Also see some case studies of heavily polluted cities in China and other
parts of the world and see what the citizens contributed in controlling of
the pollution)
I am from Kolkata. The city of joy Kolkata is famous for its colonial
heritage, Durga pujo, Rosogolla, trams, friendly attitude of its citizens,
and adda- a form of intellectual exchange among a group of friends or
acquaintances. If I get a chance then I would like to contribute in
bringing the pollution level down and make the city cleaner and greener.
M entor Review :
Nice One!! Go ahead.
My native place is Begumganj. It is a small town and it has many natural
attractions. It is on bank of River Bina which also forms a beautiful
waterfall some 17 kms away. There are a couple of temples on mountain
tops and in valley. It has a diverse culture with Hindu, Muslim, Jain and
Christian population living alongside. I am proud of my place as it has
taught me to be with nature and also to be with people from different
38 | P a g e
religious backgrounds. I feel there is a lack of awareness regarding
career options among students at my place and in future I would like to
contribute towards the awareness among the students regarding career
prospects at an early stage so that students can know the possibilities in
their lives.
M entor Review :
Good One!! Go ahead.
I'm from Saharsa district in Bihar. The place is famous for one of the
best variety of mango in Bihar "langra Aam" and shahi litchi, which also
got the GI Tag. The place is surrounded by river Kosi and it’s located in
Mithila region. I can't do much for the place but only thing I can do is to
inspire people to study more and to lead a good life, as they focus on job
soon after their schooling is done.
M entor Review :
Do a fact check, please. Shahi Litchi is definitely from Muzaffarpur and
Langra as per my understanding is from Banaras.
I’m from Kolkata, the City of Joy, and The Cultural Capital of India.
Coming on a trip here, one can surely not miss the beautiful
architectures and heritage sites of the like Victoria Memorial, Marble
Palace, Dakhineshwar Kali Temple, Shahid Minar, Mother House etc. It
has been the birthplace of world renowned personalities like
Rabindranath Tagore, Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose, Filmmaker Satyajit
Roy, and Cricketer Sourav Ganguly. Interestingly enough, the city also
has been working place of 5 Nobel laureates (CV Raman, Mother Teresa,
39 | P a g e
Rabindranath Tagore and Sir Ronald Ross). Kolkata, earlier Calcutta was
the even the first place where 1st ever Presidency Banks was formed
during British era in 1806 (Bank of Calcutta) which eventually got
merged into forming SBI.
M entor Review :
Fact correction- Netaji was born in Cuttack. Even apart from that you
have so much to say. The point would not be dearth but too much of
data. Now try and relate your likes to the nature of the city. You can
obviously talk about all the names but if you want you can single out one
or 2 names to make it more prominent and field question in there.
I am from Thrissur-The cultural capital of Kerala. The name “Thrissur” is
the abbreviated form of the Malayalam word "Thrissivaperur" which
means the town of the "Sacred Siva". Raja Rama Varma popularly known
as the Sakthan Thampuran was the architect of the present Thrissur
town. Today, Thrissur is famous all over the world for its Pooram festival.
Kerala Kala Mandalam, the Kerala Sahitya Academy and Kerala
Sangeetha Nataka Academy are also located here. Thrissur is locally
called as the elephants’ capital of India. You will not leave Thrissur
border without seeing at least one elephant. Just like festivals, elephants
are also a part of Thrissur people’s life very much. It is rumored that
every Thrissur guy is born with business blood.The first railway minister
of India is from Thrissur-John Mathai.
When I earn I want to travel in and around Thrissur district and I want
to publish a book detailing places one should never miss in Thrissur. If I
am lucky enough then my book will become a hit and it may eventually
attract new tourists.
40 | P a g e
M entor Review :
Content wise Good!! But length wise too much, you can think to shorten
it a little.
I am born and brought up in Pathankot, Punjab. It is a beautiful city
situated in the foothills of Dalhousie. Pathankot is a meeting point of 3
northern states i.e. Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh and Punjab.
The city is used as a rest - stop before heading into the mountains of
Jammu and Kashmir, Dalhousie, Dharamshala, Mcleodganj, etc.
Pathankot is famous for the unfortunate incident of 2 Jan, 2016 when six
terrorists attacked the Pathankot Air Force station.
M entor Review :
This doesn't sound right. "Pathankot is famous for the unfortunate
incident of 2 Jan, 2016 when six terrorists attacked the Pathankot Air
Force station."- You shouldn’t say it’s famous for that. You can mention it
as an unfortunate incident but not as a thing for which Pathankot is
famous.
I belong to Tirupati, which is 8th most populous city in the state of
Andhra Pradesh. It is considered as one of the holiest Hindu pilgrimage
sites because of Tirumala Venkateswara Temple. Along with this temple
there are many other temples because of which it is also referred as
spiritual capital of AP. Besides temples, Tirupati is also home for many
educational institutions and universities like IIT and IISER, thereby
making it an educational hub for Andhra Pradesh. It is awarded as the
"Best Heritage site" and last year it is placed in 4th position in ease of
living index. Tirupati got its significance and get enough funds from state
41 | P a g e
and central level for its development. If I get a chance I would like
contribute to the villages in and around Tirupati either through financial
aid or else by service. My village around it doesn’t have facilities and
awareness of having basic education which requires serious attention
and I would like to contribute to it.
M entor Review :
Good!! Go ahead with it.
Sir my native place is Dharum Kheri village in Hisar district of Haryana.
Hisar is famous for its rich history from pre-Harappan sites of Rakhigarhi
which is the largest IVC site in India and second largest in entire IVC
after Mohanjodaro, Banawali, Siswal etc to Inland Customs Line during
the British times. In the modern day, Hisar is famous for its steel
manufacturing and is the largest producer of stainless steel stripes of
razor blades. Hisar has been selected by the Central govt as a counter
magnet for NCR to reduce congestion in Delhi. Sir I may be born in Hisar
but grew up as part of Air force community where I have only one
definition and that is Indian. IAF has taught me to always work for our
motherland and that is what I will always do.
M entor Review :
Good!! Go ahead.
Sir, I belong to a very small village 'Saindwar' of District Bijnor in UP.
Saindwar means "sena ka dwar" ("Army's gate") where Pandavas had
settled their army during Mahabharatha. It is a sacred place known as
Devnagar. There is a temple of Dronacharya with many other ones. To
42 | P a g e
show the relevance of the village, a large gate is also built at the very
starting of the village which has the statue of Lord Krishna and Arjuna
sitting on a chariot. There are many other sacred places nearby like vidur
kuti, kanva ashram, daranagar, etc. Agriculture is the main source of
bijnor with sugarcane being the main crop. As most of the population is
dependent on agriculture I would like to do something in this field along
with improving the bad conditions of the roads.
M entor Review :
Good!! Go ahead.
Sir, I hail from Nadia District of West Bengal which is mainly famous for
Nabadwip Dham, the birth place of shri chaitanya maha prabhu. He was
one of the most prominent Hindu saints from 16th century and the most
renowned proponent of Vaishnava school of bhakti yoga which centres
on the devotion to Lord Krishna. His followers are called Vaishnava.
Nadia is also famous for Krishna nagar where king Krishna Chandra
ruled. And I would specially like to mention about a renowned
personality who hails from Nadia. She is Jhulan Goswami. She served as
the captain of Indian women's cricket team. Yes I am really proud of
being from a place of such famous personalities. Sir, most of the people
in my village as well as in my district are poor. I have a strong will of
helping some of them financially to pursue education.
M entor Review :
Good Enough – You can go ahead with this. But you should also know
some important trivia about your place.
For example there are parts of Nadia district (Ranghat & some parts of
Krishnanagar) that celebrates Independence Day on Aug 17th and Aug
43 | P a g e
18th because due to Radicliffe's mistake these areas went to East
Pakistan for 2 days.
Q#5:- What is the significance of your date of birth? / Do you

know of somebody important with whom you share your
birthday? Are you proud of it?
My brithday is very significant for Indian economy as our former finance
minister Manmohan Singh presented his first budget on 24th July, 1995
which opened the doors of economic liberalization by allowing private
sector to invest in Indian industry. It's an honor for me to share my
birthday with Mr. Aziz Premji- who is a great philanthropist & great
business man He has been awarded with Padma Vibhusan Award and
has listed twice in TIMES '100 most influential people of world. Like his
philanthropic nature & urge to promote education in India, I am also
aspiring to promote by promoting education in poor and destitute
children.
M entor Review :
Good Enough. Go ahead.
My birthday is on 28th April which is also celebrated all over the world as
International day of labour protection. Labours are important for any
economy and so their safety is always a priority. This day mainly focuses
on the health hazards at workplace and promotes a culture of safety. I
even share my birthday with some of renowned celebrities like Jessica
Alba, Penelope Cruz, Samantha Ruth and even with the former president
44 | P a g e
of Iraq Saddam Hussain. I share a sense of pride with them as they rule
the world with their works.
M entor Review :
Saddam is interesting, leave others. Think if you can frame it better. This
won't work - "I share a sense of pride with them as they rule the world
with their works."
My birthday is on 7th of May and on that very day in 1849 Asia's oldest
women's college was established in Calcutta, which was named as
Bethune College. And also, Noble Prize winner Kobi Guru late Rabindra
nath Tagore was born on 7th May, 1851.
M entor Review :
7th May- Well you are a lucky man to be born on the day of Tagore.
Know about Tagore If you are planning to say this.
My birthday is on 3rd October and I haven't celebrated it from past 12
years. That year my mom died. Now birthday seems to be a formality for
me which has negligible significance in my life. I haven't celebrated it
and I don't intend to celebrate it.
M entor Review :
Very sorry to hear that. My suggestion is - state this in a matter of fact
way if this question comes. No sugar coating; no excess emotions.
45 | P a g e
Sir actually nothing great has happened on 16 February. But will it be
okay? I was born on the night of Shivratri which according to Hindu
mythology is the day when Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati got married.
As I was born on this day, I am full of love and compassion for everyone.
M entor Review :
OK but don't say the first line "nothing great ..."
Well US president Bill Clinton was born on 22 Oct other than that I don't
know anyone and i was born so i think I'm lucky enough.
(Would this do Ratnabha Sir?)

M entor Review :
Any answer in this question would do provided you frame it well and
know about the guys you mention.
My date of birth is 10 August. On this date the 3rd Vice President and
4th President of India Mr.V.V.Giri was born. He is the only person to get
elected as an independent candidate. For his contributions to India, he
was conferred with Bharat Ratna. Apart from him the famous Columbian
president Juan Manuel Santos was also born on 10 August. For his work
on peace to end the civil war in his country, he was conferred with Nobel
peace prize in 2016. I am proud of being born on the date on which
famous personalities like these were born and I will work hard to achieve
the heights which these personalities have achieved.
M entor Review :
46 | P a g e
If you are mentioning names make a point to know more than average
about them.
My date of birth is 14 August, it is the Flag Day of Paraguay and also
Pakistan gained independence from British rule on August 14, 1947.
Yes, as per my knowledge I share my birth date with 3 famous
personalities, first of them would be Mr. Ram Mohan Roy, he was a great
philosopher born on 14 August 1774, second famous person I know is
Mr.Kuldip Nayar, he was a well known journalist born on 14 August 1923
and the third one will be Indian playback singer Sunidhi Chauhan born
on 14 August 1983, I am also one of her greatest fans.
(Abhishek Sir and Ratnabha Sir, is it necessary to mention birthdate and

year for the known personalities or should I drop it.)
M entor Review :
This was a specific DOB question hence your giving data about that is
quite natural. But if you are asking that whether in your intro you should
use all this data, well that's your prerogative. But my advice is to use
data on which you are comfortable with (on which you have prepared a
bit).
I was born on Radha Ashtmi as per the Hindu mythology and hence I
was named Radhika. Radha Ashtmi is a Hindu holy day commemorating
the birth anniversary of goddess Radha. The goddess is known to be
exceptionally humble, optimistic and charming. I have a charming
personality too and I have a positive attitude towards everything i come
across.
47 | P a g e
(Ratnabha Sir, should I use all or only one. If one then which one should
I use?)
M entor Review :
Well Radha Astami is without doubt a better point than Vivek Oberoi and
Shakti Kapoor 
I was born on 20th August. I share my birthday with former 7th Prime
Minister Rajiv Gandhi; this day is celebrated as sadbhavana diwas.
People celebrate it by preserving the natural beauty and planting more
trees. Sadbhavana Award is also given on this day for outstanding
contribution toward communal harmony and national integrity. Former
West Bengal Governor Gopal Krishna Gandhi won this award in 2018.
M entor Review :
Fine enough. Go ahead.
I share my birthday with Dr. B.R.Ambedkar sir who is considered as the
father of our constitution. He campaigned against the social
discrimination towards untouchables while also supporting the rights of
women and labour. I feel extremely proud to be a part of this auspicious
day which reminds me the significance it has added to the lives of so
many people through the works of Ambedkar sir. I have learned to be
helpful and kind to the people in need.
M entor Review :
Expect questions on reservations. Prepare on it (including recent
developments).
48 | P a g e
One question "Is Sir a title of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar?" Check that out; I
don’t think so- So if it’s not leave that out. You are already using Dr.
My birthday falls on September 27. The day is celebrated as World
Tourism Day. This is such a coincidence as I love travelling.
M entor Review :
My date of birth falls on the same date when world statistics day is
celebrated. It also coincides with the date when Indo China War was
started in 1962 in which India was defeated.
M entor Review :
Know about whichever you mention.
I was born on 15th July the day Karmaveerar Kamarajar was born who
brought the scheme Mid Day Meal for Tamilnadu schools and who is also
known as The King Maker forming two Prime Ministers Lal Bahadur Sastri
and Indira Gandhi. I am working towards being O.OO1% of him sir.
M entor Review :
Content wise OK but Why that vague phrase 0.001%? Be specific; "I
admire X of his and want to inculcate it" kind of phrase.
49 | P a g e
My date of birth is 20th October which falls on the same date when
China attacked on India in the year 1962 and this date is same for the
world statistics day.
M entor Review :
What about significance? I mean you are giving a data which is ok, but
how do YOU attach importance to that data? If you can say that, it will
be better.
Let me give you an example: - October is a month of festivals. Normally

Dusshera, Diwali comes in this month and like the festivals which make
us happy and optimistic, I try to be cheerful and optimistic in my life.
Don't copy this, I was just giving an eg. Write it in your own words only
if you feel so.
Q#6:- Tell us something about your family. / How many siblings

do you have? What impact did they have on you while growing
up? / What is your father's occupation? / Why don't you join
your family business?
There are four of us in my family. My father is a bank employee. My
mother, a housewife and my sister who just did her master’s from BITS
Pilani. Everyone in my family is very supportive, but it was my father
who always encouraged me to go for a job in PSU. He has been working
for last 30 years in a public sector bank and he has great love for his
profession. One of the reasons to opt for banking preparation was to
make him proud as this is what he always wanted me to do.
M entor Review :
50 | P a g e
It’s OK but add to the last line. How you developed interest now in
banking.
I have 6 members in my family including me, my father, mother, one
elder sister (she is married) and two younger brothers. My father is a
businessman of oilseeds and grains. I don't have interest in this so didn't
choose his business
M entor Review :
No! This would not do. Frame it better.
We are a family of 5. My father handles 2 businesses: One is of paints
and he also runs a tent house. My grandmother helps my father in the
business. My mother is the headmistress of a play school. My brother is
pursuing his graduation in animation. I didn't join my business I was not
interested and my inclination towards banking also refrained me to go
for family business. I have learnt how to be patient & cool in the
toughest of the situation. My mother has always encouraged me to attain
perfection even in the things that we generally neglect. The energy of
my grandmother at this age motivates me to do work with more
enthusiasm.
M entor Review :
What you have learnt from your family should be part of this answer if
this question is asked (even if you have included in Intro).
51 | P a g e
I belong to a nuclear family of four including me. My father works as
personal welfare department officer in CIL. My mother is a home maker.
I had an elder brother who works as mechanical engineer in BSNL. My
source of inspiration is my parents. My father always motivates me focus
on my goals and makes me to do hard work to achieve them. He
believes in me and makes me believe in myself. My mother teaches me
to have patience in difficult situations and be dedicated to my work. My
elder brother is a friend and guide for me in my path to achieve my goal.
M entor Review :
Very good! Go ahead
We are family of 9 members, including my parents and 4 siblings and my
two sisters’ in law and one nephew. My father is a retired government
employee and my mother is a home maker. My brothers work in
company, my sister is pursuing PhD and I am the youngest one in a
family. My sister and I have pursued more education than any member
in my family so I get a lot of information from my sister. She guides me
a lot. My mother and father encourage me to do what I want to do. And
my brother always helps me whenever possible.
M entor Review :
What did you learn from your family or some individual member of your
family? That is missing.
My father is a businessman. And I have an elder brother who helps my
father in some business. He always taught me to be extrovert and a
52 | P a g e
cheerful person. Because of his teachings today I can interact easily with
new people. And when it comes to business I don’t like to work in a
business which my father or grandfather has built up. I love doing
something on my own rather sitting on an already settled business. I
want my father to be known as my father not vice versa.
M entor Review :
The idea is right, but your words need correction. It’s slightly filmy!!
Work on the framing of sentences.
My family consists of 4 persons. My parents, my younger brother and
me. My father is working as a finance manager in Odisha Mining
Corporation. My mother is a homemaker. My brother is pursuing his
B.Com at Utkal University. My father is very dedicated towards his office
work and it always inspires me. My parents always give me the liberty to
make my choices and they are very supportive.
M entor Review :
Good! Go ahead.
My father has retired from India Cements Ltd and my mother is a
homemaker. My elder sister is working in Robert Bosch and my elder
brother is working as AE in a state run APGENCO. My siblings were
extremely supportive in the career decisions which I take and always
encouraged me to achieve my goals.
M entor Review :
Yeah it's OK. Go ahead.
53 | P a g e
There are four members in my family. My father works in a co-operative
bank and my mother is a housewife. I have a younger brother who has
just completed his BDS degree from R. Ahmed Dental College. My father
has taught me to be responsible and honest in any kind of endeavour I
pursue. My mother has taught me the requirement of hard work and
sacrifice that we should make in order to achieve something in life. My
parents have been my inspiration throughout my life.
M entor Review :
Don't need to mention your brother's college. Rest is OK
I was married two years ago so I have two families and I am proud of
both my families. In my former family we are 4 siblings and I am the
second child. My father had a medical shop but now he left that. He
changed many businesses and I got business skills from my father. He
shows that you can start and lead a business in any stage of life. My
mother is home maker and she also used to support my father in medical
shop which teaches me about importance of wife's support in business
and home. I have one elder brother, one younger brother and one
younger sister. My elder brother always supports me and we both
discuss everything with each other whatever it is....we both discuss our
problems to get best advice. He also likes to take advice from me as I
like to take advice from him.
In my latter family we are 7 members in family including our

grandparents. My grandfather in law is retired from government services,
my father in law and my brother in law are business men. My husband is
a telecom engineer in Ericsson India global services Pvt Ltd. My mother
54 | P a g e
in law is very supportive she keeps me like her own daughter. My
husband and my in laws are very supportive and they encourage me for
my preparation and my studies. I learnt many things from my both
families like how to handle situations, business skills and many more
things.
M entor Review :
This is good. It is understandable that this became lengthy as you are
talking about 2 families but try to make it shorter.
In my family, my father is a businessman (a wholesaler) and mother is
also a businesswoman but a retailer. I've a younger brother. He is in
B.com 1st yr. We are too close - we fight a lot over petty things but it's
just out of love. Well he keeps me on toes when it comes to dressing
sense or being active. Everyone from my relatives is pushing me to get in
my family business and get married but I want to do something on my
own. I like working in my business but I want to go for a bank job.
M entor Review :
Need to work on the last line. It seems as if it was a compulsion for you
to join bank.
There are four members in my family including me. My father is a
teacher, he is a self-made, hardworking, kind and honest person and
these are the things which I have learned from him. My mother is a
house maker she taught me to have patience in the most difficult
situations as they have come only to pass and to check our will. My sister
is doing her masters. She is almost 2 years younger to me. As I am from
55 | P a g e
a middle-class family I was the one who taught her whenever she had
any difficulty, this has made me a good teacher and I can easily
elaborate the things which I know to anyone which I think will be
beneficial in the bank also.
M entor Review :
Leave the "this would be beneficial in bank" part. Don't infer for them
until asked. You give data. They would make their inferences.
My father is a farmer. My mother is a homemaker. We are 3 siblings- one
sister and two brothers. I am the eldest one. Although farming is a good
occupation, but I did not choose it because it is uncertain and mainly
depends on monsoon.
M entor Review :
Know about farming. Not only the crops your father grows, but financing
policies for farmers, farmer loans, supply chain of food products etc.
Why are you so apologetic about not going into farming? Think it this
way - going to banking is the most obvious step for you.
Don't think so? Let me show you: Your father is a farmer, that's such a
good reason to be a banker. You have seen the trials and tribulations of
farming community upfront and what best place to work on it than Public
Sector Banks.
My father passed away when I was just 2 years old. I am raised by
mother and I am the only child of my parents, so I have no real brother
or sister, but have cousins. I was raised by my mother only. As my father
was in Private Job, so there was no business to join. After completing my
56 | P a g e
graduation I prepared for govt jobs, missed many jobs by some little
margin, but I prepared myself as best as i can and the result is that i am
sitting here.
M entor Review :
Now, "no business to join"- Don't you think this is an irrelevant data? Or
do you want to say that if there had been a business you would have
been interested in it and not banking? Isn’t it confusing?
Talk about what you learnt from your mother and how that has shaped
your career decision. Talk about your life- this answer has a feel that you
have written it to fit to some unwritten code- you have tried to "Make it
Normal". Don't do that. Remember YOU are your Normal.
My father was a businessman. I have 2 brothers. They guided me
through the ups and downs of life and always encouraged me; to work
hard and succeed. They have always been a great support. I had to join
my family business because of my father's sudden death and since our
economic condition was not that great. So I decided to prepare for my
bank exams as well as continuing to work in that particular business.
M entor Review :
You have experienced events (though tragically) that must have taught
you a lot. But your answer lacks that strength. Rewrite it after collecting
the learnings during your business experience and the events that you
have faced in life.
Ratnabha Sir, a query “Please tell me I am confused in this question: on
joining family business , what if i tell them i am not interested in my
57 | P a g e
family business and it is not my cup of tea? Will it have a negative
impact?”
M entor Review :
Not necessarily but you should know about your family business
nonetheless. You see, it (not interested in family business) should seem
like an informed decision rather than a reactionary one.
I have 3 siblings, and I am the youngest. All my siblings motivate me,
show me the right path whenever needed and will always be with me.
My father is a farmer and my mom is home-maker.
My parents are hard-working, they do everything they can to fulfil our
requirements and wishes.
M entor Review :
You can go ahead with this. Only the part "siblings show me the right
path" seems too politically correct and diplomatic. Just say you and your
siblings are very close to each other and support in each other's
problems.
I belong to an agrarian family. My father is farmer and my mother is
homemaker. We are 3 members in my family. I have one sister and she
is married. Though we were never bought up together but still she has
deep impact on my character. She is never concerned about family trivia
and minds her own business. It is “this trait” of hers that have influenced
me much and made me one who minds his work. Agriculture though
great profession isn't my cup of tea. I don't feel like doing it.
M entor Review :
58 | P a g e
"Mind your own work" part is feeling more of a repent rather than
something you like. See if you write something else about your sister or
reframe this in a better way.
In my family we are 3 siblings and my parents. I have one sister and one
brother. My father is a well digger and my mother has a tea stall in-front
our home. My all inspiration and qualities come from my father. My
father is a hard working and simple man who has a dream to educate his
daughters. And I want to make my father proud. I have learned to take
responsibility from my father. And the other good thing about my father
is that he is very punctual and responsible person. He always does extra
work even if he doesn’t get paid for this. Whenever he takes any work in
his hand he never becomes lazy. He completes it as soon as possible. I
have also learned to give value to others time from my father. He will
never make someone or some work wait.
In our family as my father and mother are not educated, I had to be

dependent fully on school. In my father's thought school is everything.
Education is everything. I see him an idol. And really I have learned so
many things in school life. It can be unbelievable for you that I learned
how to wash hand in TV ads where Sachin Tendulkar taught how to
wash hand. And I also learnt in school about respect and how to talk to
people. I remember that I was amazed about using sandals while going
to the toilet. We have never seen that. Now we are a much more
evolved family. And all credit goes to my father as he was determined to
give us an opportunity to go to school and college. My whole upbringing
and everything in my life has is because of my father. And now it's my
turn to make them feel proud and give them all the happiness.
M entor Review :
59 | P a g e
It's personal so no doubt quality of content is very good. But I would
advise 2-3 things. Avoid repetition (eg: - father is idol has come multiple
times). Be clear. Going beyond this question, I think you can make a
good intro out of your life's learning. So you can make this answer
shorter to fit some of this in intro. (You see, this question may not come
but intro most probably would be asked, so if you put in some of these,
then you would ensure that questions would be from the areas you
want). Adversities (especially economic ones) teach us many things and
are a very potent motivator for wanting to do well in life professionally.
Do think in these lines.
I belong to a nuclear family of 4 members including me; my parents and
my elder sister. My father is a retired government employee. He is a very
hard working and honest person. He always motivates me towards
achieving my goal and from him I learnt how to tackle difficult situations
with patience and not to lose hope and strive towards my goal
overcoming all hurdles. My mother is a homemaker and she taught me
how to take care of the needs of every person in the family and adjust
according to the situations and because of my elder sister I learnt how to
co-operate with others.
M entor Review :
Good one. Would do.
Q#7:- Did you prepare for the interview? / What all did you
prepare? / From what areas would you want us to ask you
questions on? / Did you go for coaching to prepare? / Did your
coaching institute tell you how to answer the questions?
60 | P a g e
Yes, I prepared for my interview. My mother being a headmistress takes
interview of aspiring teachers. She guided me. Besides that I have gone
through the recent developments in the economy.
M entor Review :
Yeah keep it like this- short only. If prodded, then you can go into
details. Also your answer doesn't have anything about “from which area
you should be asked question”. So rework that.
I have prepared some banking awareness topics and current affairs. I
have not taken any class for preparation. I have prepared myself by
doing practices in front of mirror and Youtube.
M entor Review :
This is OK. You can use it.
Yes sir, I prepared for the interview but I didn’t join any coaching classes
for it. I followed my mentor’s guidance and watch some videos for
preparation. I had used resources from internet to give a final touch to
my preparation. I brushed up my CV and prepared basic banking terms,
recent economic activity and budget of this year.
M entor Review :
61 | P a g e
Yes I have prepared for the interview by taking help from my seniors. As
I am not aware of the process, I searched some YouTube and channels
and watched some video contents. You can ask me about the banking
system and as I am from electronics engineering background you can
also ask question from technical domain. I will try my best to answer it.
Thank you.
M entor Review :
Rather than saying “you can ask me” say “I will be comfortable with”.
Yes sir, I prepared for my interview.I discussed about my preparation
with my elder brother and his wives who both are branch managers in
Bank of Baroda. I also followed my mentors’ guidance on YouTube and
watched videos for preparation. I had used resources from internet to
give a final touch to my preparation. I also worked on my CV and other
personal questions and prepared basic banking terms and recent
economic activities.
(Ratnabha Saha sir should I drop telling about my brother's occupation

or not?)
M entor Review :
This will do. No keep it. Why do you want to drop it? It's natural that
your brother will help you...
I did my part to get acquainted about basic banking concepts and its
institutions. I took interest in learning how the economy works and
62 | P a g e
related terminologies like Policy rates, Reserve ratios etc. Out of my
interest, I was also reading about Blockchain technology and its probable
future applications in banking industry - a couple of days ago. Having no
such formal background in this field I basically took help of internet and
verbal guidance of some of my friends who already are working in a
bank.
M entor Review :
Good One. But why "Block chain"- you want questions from there. If
that's the reason, be thorough with the concept.
No Sir I've not attended any coaching institute. Google was my teacher.
First week I made a deep research on bank interviews from various sites,
read many interview experiences and saw mock interviews from
Youtube. To gain confidence in speaking in English I've done 2 simple
exercises every day: 1) talking to myself in front of the mirror 2) reading
The Hindu editorial. In the second week I created a study plan. For that I
divided the entire expected questions into 4 fields - Academic, Personal,
Banking, Current affairs. And then I listed out all the possible questions
that may ask under each section. And started to frame answers for each
question. For current affairs I depended on Youtube videos and The
Hindu newspaper.
M entor Review :
Remove "google was my teacher". Question would invariably come “So
Google taught you or you reached the teacher through Google?” -“It's
like saying that the bus that brought me to college taught me"- You
would be logically hard-pressed to explain it.
63 | P a g e
Yes I prepared for this interview and left no stone unturned to get my
dream job. I took help from various sources like YouTube Facebook
groups and practiced in front of my siblings. I have studied basics of
banking, current affairs some topics related to my graduation.
M entor Review :
OK. Don't say "left no stone unturned".
Yes sir I have prepared because it's last part which will be a game
changer to get selected in banking. I prepared to gain basic banking
knowledge from YouTube and also joined an online session to work on
my performance and confidence. I also stayed updated about current
affairs as it is also important.
M entor Review :
Go ahead.
Yes sir I have prepared for the interview. I brushed my concepts on
banking and current affairs. I read the experiences of people who had
given interview and discussed about interview with some of my friends
who already got selected in banking industry. I had also done some
interview sessions with them to get an atmosphere of industry and make
myself comfortable for this stage.
M entor Review :
Good. Go ahead.
64 | P a g e
Q#8:- Why do you want to work for a bank? / Why do you want
to work for a public sector bank? / Why do you want to work for
a particular bank (if it’s a specific bank interview like SBI,
Canara PG etc.) / What is your interest in the banking industry?
Sir I am a people's person. I personally like to serve my country rather
than working for foreign unknown clients. Indian banking sector is a
quite dynamic, fast growing service sector which I would love to be a
part of. SBI, as this is the largest psb of country with ample growth
opportunities.
M entor Review :
Avoid negatives like, "rather than working for foreign unknown clients."
Focus more on what you would want to do.
In this time, banking is the only sector which is too dynamic and
adapting to new technology very fast. Public sector banks are trust-
worthy and we can secure our future. SBI is my dream bank; it is the top
most bank of India. And, after merger, it is in the top 50 list of world's
top banks. There is good career growth in SBI. I love learning. While
pursuing in banking, i can learn many new things.
M entor Review :
Don't get overenthusiastic. This means nothing. "In this time, banking is
the only sector which is too dynamic and adapting new technology very
fast."
65 | P a g e
Sir, for me there are many reasons that I want to opt for Banking as a
career. Some of which are:-
1. High Exposure
2. Growth prospects
3. Stability
4. Perks and allowances
5. Work culture and work life balance
6. Social Status and many more.
And I find all these in this bank.
M entor Review :
Give it a shape. You can’t give a point wise answer like this.
As I am ageing, I wanted to join SBI PO which has great perk and salary
and also gives fast job placement as compared to other sector jobs.
M entor Review :
This is bad. Won’t do. Work on it. Go through our basic interview
lectures (Flowchart)
The recruitment process of banking sector is very fast as compared to
any other like SSC-CGL which takes approx 2 years and morever banking
66 | P a g e
sector is very fast growing sector - as you know SBI is in list of top 50
banks.
M entor Review :
Very Bad! Change it completely. Look at your first reason – You are
saying as Banks conduct regular exams, you want to join. Is this your
motivation to join bank? Have a positive reason for joining bank. This
would not do.
If a country is a human body then money would be the blood and the
Banking sector is the heart. So it is one of the important industries in any
economy.
Any economy consists of 2 things Consumers and the Producers and the
Banking sector acts as a bridge to them. It also acts as a catalyst to
country’s as well as its citizen’s growth/ development. So working in a
banking sector will provide me with an opportunity to have a role in the
growth. Being a customer oriented industry; it also allows me to mix with
different kind of people which I am quite comfortable with and good at.
Also the professional as well as personal stability that it brings with itself
is a perk in itself.
M entor Review :
Good content. But practise saying it; it should not look mugged up. Some
part, you might feel to change after rehearsal.
I want to serve society at large by helping them to avail of credit... I will
serve MSMEs by giving them SME loans and fulfill the dreams of people
to own their own house by helping them get housing loans. I am a
67 | P a g e
growth oriented person, BOB provides many opportunities to climb up
the ladder & reach to the pinnacle.
M entor Review :
Good. Go on with it.
As I am from economics background and find the subject very
interesting, I wanted to direct my knowledge and effort in that field and
banks give me that opportunity. It is every banking aspirant's dream to
be a part of SBI. It is the largest bank of India. Attractive remuneration,
knowledgeable workforce, supportive environment for female employees
and job stability are some of the keys because of which I have proclivity
towards sbi.
M entor Review :
Will do. But rehearse it well. Also if you can pull in 1-2 liner (in points)
from your question: Why should we select you? Then it will be better.
Today, in every sector there is some extent of investment and savings
and here comes the role of banking industry because this is helping in
these. In India this sector is influencing the whole economy and as an
estimate there is approximately more than 80% people who have bank
accounts. This industry is progressing day by day and especially after the
merger of associates banks and Bhartiya mahila bank, SBI is among the
top most 50 banks of the world. So working in banking industry
especially in SBI will be a matter of honour for me and it also has higher
prospects of career growth and direct interaction with the people.
M entor Review :
68 | P a g e
More or less OK. But you need to also state in 1-2 line why you?
1) To be very honest banking sector provides a handsome salary and
greater career growth options. Secondly, our country's growth is directly
dependent on banking sector so it will be great to be a part of this
growth. 2) I find that public sector banks take care of its employees
more than pvt sector banks. There is job security in public sector and a
good working environment... 3) For SBI, as it is the one of the oldest
banks in India. It has survived through many ups and downs and still it is
stable, which shows its ability to survive through any condition. So in any
condition i will feel secured. For BoB as this bank has largest overseas
branches in the world while it is not the oldest bank in India which shows
the potential of this bank to grow and within this bank surely I can grow
at a greater pace than any other bank. 4) Banking industry provides us
white collar job, handsome salary and greater career growth options.
These all point made me to go with banking sector.
M entor Review :
This question is not about the bank, but why you want to go into banks.
Your answer is all about why PSB is good for you, not why YOU want to
join it in the first place (Secure job & Money shouldn't the only reason.
Work profile and your skills matching it should take the forefront.)
Now as much opportunity is relevant here, more relevant is the reason
for your knack/interest towards this opportunity. So work on it.
Banks are the lifeline of an economy. By working in the banking industry,
one directly contributes to the growth of one’s nation. Public sector
banks have a very extensive network and they reach all the sections of
69 | P a g e
the society from small farmers to top industrialists and benefit them. SBI
falls among the top 50 banks of the world. SBI provides immense career
growth the youths and a dynamic, fast-paced working environment. It
also provides great social status and helps one to interact with people.
So, I want to join the biggest public sector bank of the country.
Apart from that my father is my idol and he retired from SBI last year so
I want to start my career from that bank from which my father taken
retirement.
M entor Review :
The last 3 lines at that particular place are not good. You may put them
at start and show how the idea of banking or first push towards banking
came from your father. But then frame your answer around your skills
and your understanding of how they are relevant to your interest in
banking.
Whenever I visit a bank and get the chance to meet the bankers, I just
feel amazed by their personality. They are hard working, they are well
behaved, they are determined and disciplined, and they are friendly and
cordial. They have an extraordinary communication skill. Above all they
listen to people. The personality of the bankers has tempted me towards
banking more than anything else. Whenever I meet them, I just wanted
to be them. To me, Bankers are Artists. Apart from that, I like to interact
with people. Interacting with people makes me feel happy. That's why I
want to join the banking sector.
M entor Review :
Liked most part of it. "Bankers are Artist"- A tad hyperbolic but if you can
pull it off, you can definitely do it. Also it's all communication &
personality, a little of interest towards finance will supplement it well.
See if you can do that. Rest is OK.
70 | P a g e
PSB has a most elaborate and extensive network in the whole country
which will allow me to work at different parts of the country and meet
people from different regions which is an enriching experience in itself.
Also the growth opportunity this sector brings with itself is quite good
coupled with professional and personal stability and social stature. The
Digital India mission aims to make our economy less cash oriented and
the new schemes launched such as opening of Jan Dhan Accounts etc.
focuses on bringing maximum population under the banking umbrella.
PSBs are the driving forces behind these schemes which aims at
changing the banking structure of the country same as happened in
1969(Nationalization). And joining a PSB will help me to be an agent of
these changes which is also one of the reasons to join PSB.
M entor Review :
Well framed. Go ahead with this.
The competitive environment of the banking sector provides ample scope
for individual growth. The banking sector is one of the most diverse
sectors to work in. There is a variety of profile that suits your interest
and aptitude from bank manager to financial analyst, from account
manager to specialist officer. Public sector bank has very extensive
network and they reach all the section of the society. SBI falls among top
50 banks of the world. SBI provides immense career growth to the
youth. So I want to be a part of this biggest public sector bank.
M entor Review :
In a general sense, OK. But try and pull in some points which show how
your inclination for the same.
71 | P a g e
A job in a public sector is considered to be a job for life. It provides job
security and as I am just 22, I am looking for stable career. Apart from
this, Banking is an exciting ecosystem to be in. Now banking has become
so vibrant. It provides a lot of opportunities for my personal growth.
M entor Review :
Stable career, Job Security- Bad reasons to be in SBI. Think on the lines
of your skills and how they are helpful in a banking job.
Q#9:- Tell us about your educational background. / What did

your education teach you? / Were you fond of your teachers? /
Were you a good student? / If you are given a chance, would
you want to change your stream of study?
I have done graduation in zoology and also attained a pass course in
botany, environmental science and chemistry. I had done my masters in
zoology and presently I am doing research on oncogenes from BHU,
Varanasi. I had learnt dedication, patience, hardwork, and of course a
logical and practical approach. My research subject made me a keen
observer and taught me to study every minute development and work in
a disciplined way. One thing I learnt is to never quit and give my best,
and if I will be given the second chance I will choose the same stream
and subjects.
(Query: - Ratnabha Sir, I had interest in my field so I am afraid that if I

give the above answer they would say “Your subject is different, and it
72 | P a g e
seems you have interest in it too. Then why are you coming to banking?”
How do I handle such question? You see actually job security, reputation
and good growth aspects motivated me to enter banking industry. I
could have gone for teaching approximately 4-5 years of hard work and
it still doesn't ensure a permanent job. So this is the reason for joining
banking industry. Sir it is the actual reason for interest in banking
industry but how to frame it in a way to look appropriate. Please help)
M entor Review :
First about your answer- it’s good.
Now responding your query; I will give you some thoughts- try and
frame in this line. You know how bad is the shape of financial grants,
loans or aid to research institutes and technology (especially in your
area). Can you hunt some data about what happens in developed
countries? Do mainstream banks finance companies working in these
segments? If yes, what stops our banks to do so?
If you get some relevant data, you may as well say that in 5-10 years
you want to be at the forefront of financing startups in your area. As a
matter of fact this might become a cause of inspiration for you. The
response that you can create would be very effective then.
If you don't get any relevant data, then you choose for a generalistic
answer.
See most of the candidates want to have a secure job, money etc. but
that does not drive people beyond 4-5 years. After that they get bored
and if there is nothing larger in their purpose they tend to burn out. This
question is to see just that. So I am not asking you to just make the
answer. What I am asking you is if you get data, and see there is a
viability of a higher purpose start believing in it.
73 | P a g e
I am a first class honours graduate in Physics. I completed my
graduation from Dinabandhu Andrews College, Garia, under University of
Calcutta. My subject Physics helped me to understand how an object will
behave under particular conditions, how to improve its functioning and
enhanced my problem solving ability. My subject also taught me to
implement my theoretical knowledge in practical field. Yes Sir, I was very
fond of my teachers, especially Mr. Arun Kumar Mukherjee who helped
me a lot during my graduation. Yes Sir, I am a good student but always
try to improve my performance over the previous one. Sir I would not
change my stream as it helps to study the behaviorial changes in an
object.
M entor Review :
OK would do. But in this answer it’s not clear what exactly do you mean
by behavioral changes in object? Either frame it such that it can be
understood or leave it altogether.
Sir, I have done B.Tech in Electronics & Instrumentation. I joined this
stream because I have grown up seeing my father repair various
electronics, day-to-day life instruments. Just like other streams in Engg.
my subjects were comprehensive, challenged me with so many varieties,
taught me time management, optimization, bit of communication skills
and made me ready to step into a professional world.
Coming to my academics, my marksheets can be considered as a
parameter but I consider myself slightly better than average students.
One more thing I can proudly mention that unlike other students I had
around 99% attendance throughout my career, even in final years as I
like the teaching of my faculties/teachers. This might be the reason I
joined as a teacher for 6 months as a part time teacher of a CBSE board
74 | P a g e
school after completing my graduation. Engg has always helped me to
come across diverse subjects to learn new technologies and has given
me so much opportunities to apply in various fields throughout my career
I would definitely chose Engineering subjects only to increase my chance
to excel in my career.
M entor Review :
Make it short. Focus on the skills that you have gained (i.e the first para)
and how that would help you in career (i.e. 3rd para). Make 2nd para a
part of your personality (Eg: - Attendance to sincerity link) rather than
this question.
I have done engineering in computer science. My stream makes me
different from rest of world. People use application and technologies. I
can understand how these application works. What more changes can be
made? I can understand on which technology the software/application is
running. While using any website I can see this website is using hyper
text transfer protocols. Normal people just use the application. And in
engineering I have learnt how to handle pressure, complete projects,
meet the deadlines; my final year project was on online complaint
redressal. Learnt a lot new things every semester: Various cultural
programs were also makes me happy, helps in releasing pressure: From
rap singers to spritual teacher Dalai Lama everyone visited my college.
We students got to learn from their life too, I used to always interact
with my teachers to learn something new. They also used to help me in
anything besides their subject like hostel problem etc. They taught me
lesson of not only their subject but also lessons of life.
I was not a topper...but I was a sincere student. I took part in every co-
circular activities too. Even my teachers didn't used enjoy in class when I
was absent. They used to call me, enquire about my health. They were
75 | P a g e
very caring like parents. If I got a chance, then I will do engineering
again. In a more effective way this time.
M entor Review :
Make it short. Replace first 10 lines (all of it about Technical) with 3
lines. You will have to reframe it completely. Do away with the
hyperbolic statements.
Btech computer science holder. Average or below average student while
in graduation. I loathed my b.tech and if I could have given a chance, I
wanted to do Bsc. Chemistry.
M entor Review :
Now the next question is if you loathed it why didn't you leave it? What
is the guarantee that you would not loath your banking job? Then also
you were >18 (considered an adult), today also it is the same.
‘Loathed’ is too strong a word and too negative an emotion for
something to which you gave 4 years of your life. Did you like nothing in
you Engg? No subjects, out of the 40 subjects you studied in 8 years,
excited you? You see, normally what happens is, we don't like some
subjects of a course and end up hating the whole course. We tend to
forget that there were 2 or more things that we loved about it. Also the
intangible learning what about them- we miss them in counting. So see
whether this is the case with you. If yes then my suggestion is to rethink
and rewrite.
I have been a student with decent academics. I was district topper in
class 12th science stream. I took admission in BIT MESRA, Patna
76 | P a g e
Campus where I did B.E in Mechanical Engineering.
Engineering has taught me to be patient & precise, being innovative &
think in a logical way. While doing experiments or doing theoretical
calculations, I had to be precise & accurate to achieve at a positive
result. Also it taught me to be patient & handle stress while waiting for
experiment results or while going back through calculations or data to
find the source of error. I have also developed good communication skills
while working in teams. Yes I am very fond of my SOM & Hydraulics
teachers who help everyone when asked for help. I have borrowed books
from them & took their help out of class numerous times. I have always
tried to focus on my studies & give my best which has yielded me good
academics.
I would not change my stream even if given a chance as engineering has
given me good analytical skills, positive attitude, innovative mind &
ability to handle stress.
M entor Review :
Good One. Go ahead. Prepare on the subjects though.
I have done B.Com honours in 2017. Currently, I am pursuing M.Com
from school of open learning. In addition to this, I have keen interest in
learning a foreign language and for that I am learning German from Max
Mueller Bhavan and in B1 level. Yes, I am a good student that can be
seen from my academics results too. I would not like to change my
stream even if I got a chance because I’ve always had interest in
economics and marketing. And by choosing commerce I have best of
both.
M entor Review :
Fair enough. Go ahead.
77 | P a g e
Sir, I have done bachelors in technology in mechanical engineering
department from lovely professional university.
Through my engineering, the most important thing that I got to learn is
the ability of grabbing and understanding any new thing in very less
amount of time and also delivering the same in an efficient manner.
Then I did masters in business administration from NIT Silchar.
Through my MBA, I got to learn the various aspects of management
whether it be managing a team in completing a project in very less
amount of time with least resources available or it be presenting myself
in front of the mass in an interactive manner.
(Query: - Ratnabha Sir, I am not getting the answer to question "were

you a good student?”, because my academic scores are not that great.
How to answer that very question sir?)
M entor Review :
Fine enough.
Regarding your query: As far as good student is concerned you can say
something like "I am a good student as I am a curious about learning
new aspects of the thing I am studying" in your own words.
I completed my 12th in science stream and B.Sc. in pcm. My schooling
has taught me to coordinate with peers, to be practical and to be
adaptive to nature. I don't want to change my stream as I have learnt
many things like problem solving skills, analyzing before reaching any
conclusion, especially maths has taught me to have patience and stay
calm and made my mind sharp. Yes, I was fond of some of my teachers
78 | P a g e
who infused interest in their particular subject. As far as I know I am a
good student and that’s the reason I am here being interviewed.
M entor Review :
Change last line. Doesn't suit. Everyone who is there has got a call of
interview. You have to prove your goodness on the basis of your
knowledge and interest (even academic scores would also do) but not on
the basis of clearing this competition.
I did B.Com honours from Delhi University in 2018. Through my school
and college, I've transformed from an introvert to an ambivert by being a
captain of a society in school and a class representative in college. I've
developed communication skills and leadership abilities through that. My
financial analytical skills may not be the very best, but I think I became
pretty good at it. My subjects taught me to be adaptive to new
environments; I've studied economics to a good extent which I think
would make me a suitable candidate for this job. My teachers had a
great hand in making me what I am today. Until 10th I was an average
student, but ever since I've stepped into the commerce stream, I started
scoring decent marks. My teachers noticed my potential and motivated
me to work even harder. I eventually became one of the highest scorers
in school and college in the accountancy subject. No, I wouldn't change
my stream ever because this stream has me confident in life. It made me
explore my untouched horizons. I now just need a platform to practice it
so that I can be even better at it and I think your bank is the one I'm
looking for.
(Query: Abhishek Sir, It’s becoming too long and am doubtful about it-
what to do?)
M entor Review :
79 | P a g e
Change this line "My financial analytical skills may not be the very best,
but I think I became pretty good at it." – It’s not needed. Rest is fine.
For your query: Do a little rehearsal, you might automatically end up

shaving some part.
Q#10:- How would your education help you do your job better
when working for the bank? / Don't you think you would be
wasting your education by getting into a bank? / Why should an
engineer/science graduate be looking for a bank job?
I chose finance specialisation in my BBA which helped me explore the
banking sector as Banking & Insurance was one of the subjects. Being
selected, I would be an assistant manager after completing my
probation. So BBA being a management course will come handy in my
stint.
M entor Review :
Flow good. You can use this.
My technical knowledge will help me in a bank as banking operations
nowadays are technology driven like digital banking, CBS. Being a
technocrat, I will be in a better position to work in a technical
environment. I studied various subjects like organisational behaviour,
communication skills and these will help me in my day to day job as a
banker. The skills acquired by me during engg like team work,
80 | P a g e
completing tasks within deadlines, pressure handling can be efficiently
utilised as a banker. Since engg curriculum has different subjects from
different disciplines, it makes a person versatile and open to learning
new things. I have learnt the basics of banking during mains examination
and I will learn more during pre-induction training and by acquiring
professional qualifications of banking like CAIIB.
M entor Review :
Will do. Rehearse it well.
Samir Sir, please review which one will be more effective between these
two:
(1) I believe that we all are students who are seeking knowledge from
every possible phase of life, be it school, college or even workstation. I
am proud to pursue my Engg degree as Engg has taught me
optimization, smart working, time management, analytical thinking and
most importantly respecting my peers which leads to better teamwork.
Adding to these I have learned a lot of client management also during
my current career. So I think all these learning will only benefit the bank.
(2) Sir, I wished to be a doctor from very beginning, decided to be a

medic in the Army (appeared for AFMC but couldn't made till the final
round). After that my interests grew towards the other available area like
Electronics and Instrumentation as I joined Engineering. But I joined an
IT MNC by on-campus recruitment to support my family's financial
condition. During the current SBI PO preparation I devoted myself to
learn more about Indian banking system. As you see, I needed to make
myself flexible as per the situation. But wherever I went, I tried to gather
all possible knowledge along with me.
I think with my interpersonal skills I would never disappoint a customer,
81 | P a g e
I can create a friendly ambiance among my peers and seniors, my IT
skills might come handy as per digitization of banks is concerned. Also
needless to say I would accept my faults if I commit and definitely try to
improve and learn new things here as well.
M entor Review :
Go with the First one. A little rephrasing will make it better. While
rehearsing answers if you get some ideas you can incorporate them to
rephrase a little.
Sir I did B.Tech and it has not only increased my technical skills but also
improve my analytical and reasoning skills. It taught me how to give best
under pressure, how to perform efficiently with in time limits. And I don't
think that knowledge is wasted anyhow, with my technical knowledge
and ability to learn working on different platform I will be an asset for
digital banking.
M entor Review :
Fair enough. Go ahead with this.
Banks provide loans and advances to industrial houses and being from a
mechanical engineering background I will be able to assess these loan
requirements in better way. Also, technological advancements are
happening rapidly in banks and I hope I'll be able to assist the bank in
these areas as well.
82 | P a g e
M entor Review :
Apart from direct linkage you can also talk about how your intangible
learning during your graduation will help you in your job.
Sir, in this day and age, we are focusing on digitizing everything, we are
connecting everything to computers and the internet in order to make
India paperless, and me being a BCA graduate has a lot to offer about
computers. Apart from these, I am a tech savvy person who is engrossed
with any new technology that is introduced. So if a new machine is
launched in the organization, I would be among the first ones to learn
and practice everything about it. It will be of no harm for SBI to have a
computer graduate in its armoury.
M entor Review :
Do you think you can carry sentences like last sentences confidently? If
yes, then only use them or else leave it. Rest is good.
Sir, during my course of study I have developed good communication
and adaptability skills. English has helped me to become a critical thinker
and enhanced my creativity. Banking these days are more about
marketing and less about finance. In order to sell the banking products
and deal with the customers, an employee needs a good communication
and persuasion skills. I possess that and therefore will be able to deal
with the customers in an effective manner.
M entor Review :
Don't use the line "banking is more about marketing and less about
finance". For that matter don't let your views define any general subject
83 | P a g e
or field during interview. It will land you up in unnecessary trouble. Rest
is fine.
Sir, through my engineering, the most important thing that I got to learn
is the ability of grabbing and understanding any new thing in very less
amount of time and also delivering the same in an efficient manner and
through my MBA I got to learn the various aspects of management
whether it be managing a team in completing a project in very less
amount of time with least resources available or it be presenting myself
in front of the mass in an interactive manner, And all these are the basic
requirements of a bank job, so by utilising all these qualities I can
definitely give valuable result to my organisation. And also I did my MBA
in marketing which would definitely help me in reaching the unbanked
area and help the people in getting the best from the banking sectors.
(Answer to the second question): No, sir no education can ever get
wasted I feel, and all the basic things that I got to learn from my
academics can also be utilised in banking sector too for giving a valuable
result.
(Answer to the 3rd question): It's all about an individual's choice whether
he/she wants to join bank after completing engineering or not.
If yes, then definitely they can because through engineering an engineer
gets to learn the ability of grabbing and understanding any new thing in
very less amount of time and also delivering the same in an efficient
manner.
M entor Review :
3rd question is irrelevant for you because you have done MBA after
Engineering so this question you have already faced for yourself then.
Your preparation area should be MBA to Banking or Engineering to MBA
(if they ask) rather than Engineering to Banking. Rest delve into your
basic understanding from MBA of financial services and how they are
84 | P a g e
important for the economy and relate it to your career choice of Banking.
Be ready for technical questions on Finance field.
Sir I'm an English Honours graduate. I've read so many plays and novels
which tell us about what is ethically right and what's unethical. So it will
help me to take decisions correctly. Milton's Paradise Lost has taught me
that self respect is the biggest thing in the world. Satan's line "Better to
reign in Hell than to serve in Heaven" is the best example to define self
respect. Satan continues to motivate his fallen angels even when they
were expelled from the heaven which simply taught us that we should
move on even when we are facing some odds in life and we are not
getting what we deserve. Reading Shakespeare, Milton, T.S.Eliot,
Dryden, Marlowe has helped me becoming a better human being. I will
use the lesson that I received from those eminent personalities in my
day to day banking activities.
M entor Review :
Wow! Good. A different answer. Rehearse it well.
I am a graduate in chemical engineering and I can contribute towards
the development of the nation by working in a bank. As my subjects deal
with the core sector of the country like fertiliser industry, paper industry,
plastic industry, petroleum industry I can help the bank in loaning out in
such a way that we can make profits and help with the economic
development of the country. Being with the bank we directly contribute
to the GDP of the country.
85 | P a g e
M entor Review :
Too generic. If you are not able to find some specific link, go ahead with
linking the intangibles that you have learnt from Graduation and interests
in banking to answer this question.
Also don’t you think the words are too big? Like economic development,
GDP of the country etc. You can use the same theme but be more
specific.
A small Eg: - You can say: As Banking service is required for all
industries my knowledge/experience in these specific industries will also
be utilized.
Sort of like that. Rewrite it in your own words on these lines.
Q#11:- Why is there a gap in your studies? Did you flunk? /

What were you doing all these years? / Do you think it's the
right thing for a graduate to sit at home to prepare for these
exams? / We have interviewed so many candidates who have
been working while doing this preparation, so why could you
have not done the same?
After my graduation in 2017, I started preparing for my banking exams. I
also went for a diploma course in elementary education but eventually
dropped it after 6 months as I was very much inclined towards banking
and was just wasting my time in diploma where I was not interested at
all. After dropping it out, I dived into my preparation for banking besides
helping my father in his business.
M entor Review :
Last 3 lines not required. Rest is good.
86 | P a g e
I completed my graduation in 2015. I started preparing for banking
exams. But as I was to appear in 2016 exams, some unfortunate things
happened in my family. I was unable to continue with my preparations.
But during this time I learnt a lot - from being a person with careless
attitude I became very mature. Hard times of my life gave me the
biggest learnings of my life. I used to teach poor students who cannot
afford tuitions. And also we a bunch of us from the same age group
used to go to nearby villages and hold campaigns to make people
understand the importance of education in one's life and also the
necessity of sanitary napkins these days - we had a tie up with our
health ministry who used to fund our small activities.
M entor Review :
Good. Also tell when you resumed preparation. And mention in very
short what was the unfortunate thing (if you are not very uncomfortable
mentioning it).
Sir, I completed my graduation in 2015. So, I have gap of 3 years. In
those years, I offered home tuition to the children of classes 5-8 of WB
board, because I love to help others. Besides that, I was also preparing
for banking examinations and tried to improve my performance every
year. I believe that I will be able to reach my goal very soon.
M entor Review :
Will do. Rehearse it well and based on that if you want to modify it little,
if need be.
87 | P a g e
I completed my B.Tech in 2017 and this was my first attempt of SBI PO.
Since I reached the interview stage of this prestigious exam, I believe I
possess some skills which might be useful for something else in the
market, but I am not interested in them. I want to stay in this banking
sector so worked hard for this exam along with pursuing hobbies.
M entor Review :
Remove the “I believe I possess some skills..... else in the market". Just
say you prepared for PO exams...
I was very much inclined to do graduation from IIT. So after completing
my 12th I wished to prepare for IIT and relentlessly tried for that but
couldn't get a decent rank to secure a seat in IIT so I decided to join
KIIT University and pursued by B.Tech in mechanical engineering and
completed in May 2017. I did get an offer from Accenture during my
campus placement but didn't join that because of my interest towards
banking sector. I had made it to the interview of SBI PO last year but
wasn't able to secure a place in the final list and since then I am trying
to clear this coveted exam and work for your esteemed organization
which is one of my dreams.
M entor Review :
Go ahead with this.
88 | P a g e
Sir I completed my graduation in 2012 and after that I joined a private
company because of some financial reason. I prepared for exams with
my job but most of time I missed pre exams by marginal marks then I
was able to clear the pre exams but couldn't clear the mains exam. In
between I got married so I decided to leave the job and give full
dedication to my exams. Last year I was able to take only SBI PO exam
and in that I missed mains again by marginal marks and after that
because of sudden health issue there was a gap of 6 months in my
studies and now this year I started again with more dedication and
because of this I am able to give interview of my dream job.
M entor Review :
Fine enough, but change the "joined a private company because of some
financial reason"- it seems as you are apologetic about it.
Sir, I decided to go for banking sector after my engineering only. I did
MBA because I possess proper managerial skills in dealing with large
number of people and giving satisfactory service to them in a much
effective way. And also I realised how MBA plays a vital role in a faster
career growth for higher managerial posts in every sector.
And I have also seen many people quitting their job and coming to do
MBA for having a faster growth. Therefore I realised that it's better to
complete my academics first and then go for job...
M entor Review :
Reframe your answer in the below mentioned way in your own words:-
“You had interests in banking after your engineering and going through
MBA strengthened my interests as I got to know more about the financial
sector.”
89 | P a g e
After my graduation I was clueless about competitive exam. So I took
coaching for both bank and cgl. I started giving exam from 2017
onwards. Due to the stiff competition I failed many main exams, some
results are still pending and now I am here. But during this tenure I
realised the importance of banks in a nation’s economy more closely.
This inclined me to be a banker.
M entor Review :
Remove that coaching part, just say I was preparing. Work on the
language used. Also, talk about what all this period added to you as a
person. Please watch the sessions first. Seems you haven't.
I had taken a year gap for preparation of IIT JEE, and after my
graduation in 2014, I got an offer letter from a Ball & Screw company,
Pune but I preferred teaching and worked for 2 years as a teacher in a
coaching. Although I liked that profession but when I realised that there
is no further growth in that, I decided to prepare for PSB and because of
the tough competition it took time to crack the exam.
M entor Review :
Decent. Work more on what all you learnt in these 4 years, about
teaching, what value it added, etc.
I completed my graduation in 2016. After clearing my basic I started
giving exams 2017 onwards. Though I was able to clear preliminary of
90 | P a g e
different type of exams but repeated failure in mains exam compelled me
to think about my approach. I have realised to achieve my goal I have to
be very specific. So I started solely for bank exam as I found it more
interesting, and now I am here.
M entor Review :
Remove the “Now I am here part.”
Q#12:- Why do you want to leave your current job? / Are you
not happy with your current job? / Are you sure you would like
this job with our bank?
Yes Sir, I would like this job as there is immense scope for me to extend
my limits everyday and to be a part of dynamic, fast-paced work
environment and grow not just professionally, but personally as well.
(Only the rd question is applicable to me.)
M entor Review :
A little elaboration of how might help. This is too general.
Sir my last job was also good but I left that during time of my marriage
as my in laws wanted a gap after marriage and also I had to shift. I
always wanted to become a banker and for that I used to prepare with
my job also and at time of marriage when I left my previous job, I
decided not to join a private firm and to dedicate my time to my dream
job. So I continued my studies with more dedication.
91 | P a g e
M entor Review :
Well rather than saying your in-laws wanted; Say you needed to shift
after marriage hence you had to leave your job. See even if your in-laws
didn't want it you would have most probably shifted to be with your
husband. Isn't it?
I got placed in a software company through campus interview but with
the delay of my call letter and later on getting married I could not make
it. Then I was blessed with a baby girl who is 5 years old now and I had
to give my time as she was in her infancy stage. Now she is quite
responsible and understanding because of which I am able to give time
for bank exam preparation. During this period I got to understand the
influence bank has in our economy which has made me more interested
to work with bank. With SBI being the largest public sector bank it’s my
pleasure and honour to be associated with the bank towards working for
the development of the country.
M entor Review :
I worked in HDFC bank, a private sector bank. In private sector, career
growth is good but for that you have to switch your bank from HDFC to
ICICI to Kotak to Axis bank to grow in your career. In private sector, it is
a trend that most people leave their current job if they get other
opportunity. And in government sector we have seen that many people
join bank as probationary officer after working in same bank and they
become chairman, MD of the same bank without switching bank so in
92 | P a g e
government sector bank career growth with job stability is higher
compare to private sector thats why sir I left the job.
M entor Review :
You still need to build on it. You elaborated one thing too much... Try
adding a couple of other things instead. Also, try not to villainise pvt
sector. Find out positives of Public Sector rather than negatives of Pvt
Sector.
I always love to interact with new people, helping or guiding them in
whichever possible manner. I also love to work in teams, organize events
and manage the team. Luckily, in my previous job, I learnt a lot of work
ethics and how to be a good team player but unfortunately production
support roles do not offer much intellectual growth or skill progression.
Moreover there was no job security and work life balance was also poor.
We were asked to work in night shifts without proper leaves. So, I
decided to prepare for banking sector which could provide me a stable
job and better growth opportunities.
M entor Review :
The disadvantages of previous job can be shared but should not
repeatedly be referenced upon in the interview. Rehearsing would give
you an idea what to change. So rehearse it well.
Q#13:- What do you do in your free time? / What hobbies do

you pursue? / How do your hobbies help you in becoming a
better individual?
93 | P a g e
Watching anime and reading all types of books. And having fun with my
bhai.
M entor Review :
Too Short. Hobby wise this will do. Apart from these objective answers,
you need to keep handy what you learn from your hobbies or how it
helps you etc.
Dancing and Cooking are my stress busters. In between my study gaps,
or whenever I get time, I love to dance and record it. I also like to cook
and try different recipes especially when some guests arrive. I also love
to throw surprise parties or to be a host of any kind of party.
Ratnabha Sir a query: Is this ok to tell in a job interview because these

are my genuine hobbies and I don't want to make anything up on that
day and tell them.
M entor Review :
Answer is fine.
Now regarding your query, Yes Obviously!! If it's your genuine hobby
why won't you? The interview is about the whole of you and not You-
The Bank Employee.
I usually spend my free time doing graphic designing, reading and
watching TV shows with family and friends. Working on graphic design
projects helped me in exploring my creative side and enhanced my
problem solving skills.
94 | P a g e
M entor Review :
Good. Go ahead.
In my free time I like to listen to music as it helps me relax. Also I love
to ride bicycle and this keeps me fit. I spare two hours everyday to teach
kids in my locality who cannot afford private tuitions. This keeps me well
informed and increases my knowledge and makes me happy.
M entor Review :
Good. Go forward with this.
My hobbies are reading, gardening, sketching and cooking. Reading
helps me to gain knowledge and a different perspective of life. Gardening
keep me calm and watching plants to grow give me inner satisfaction
and peace of mind. Cooking is a stress buster for me during cooking I
shed all my negative thoughts and tension and prepare favourite dishes
for my family and friends which bring smile on their face and in return
make me happy. Sketching helps me to clear my thoughts and bring it to
canvas.
M entor Review :
Good. Go ahead with this.
I believe that hobby should be such that it can earn living in hard times.
I am a diversified learner and have interest in learning foreign language.
95 | P a g e
Currently, I am learning German. It has helped me to develop my
interacting and communication skills. As in the class people from all age
age groups are there and we perform group tasks. I also go to gym daily
as I believe health is wealth, it makes me feel confident and keeps me
fit.
M entor Review :
Good Enough. Only suggestions is that if the first line is coming fine then
it’s ok or else do away with the first line.
Usually I read novels as it motivates me to move further in life with
positive attitude and approach. I basically spend my free time with my
family interacting with them as this is the time when I forget everything
let it be my work, tensions etc and just relax as it keeps my mind and
body calm and composed.
M entor Review :
Go Ahead. Be prepared for questions based on reading. Best one, last
read one, favourite author, who and why etc.
Sir, in my free time I like to solve suduko and talk with my family
members and my friends. Suduko works as a brain game which helps me
to think and talking with my family members encourage me for my goal.
M entor Review :
You can go ahead with this.
96 | P a g e
Sir, I like travelling, and in a bank job one has to be transferred every 3
years or so... So in that way I can accomplish my job and simultaneously
my hobby will also be taken care of automatically
M entor Review :
Traveling for leisure and Staying at one place for 3 years after being
transferred. Are they similar? - No! Isn’t it? So rework the answer.
Sir genuinely my hobbies are reading novels and listening to music. Sir i
like reading Khaled Hosseini and Anita Desai's novels. But Sir i don't have
any preference for any particular type of music I just like to listen to
recent English songs releases.
Sir what kind of questions can I expect from 'listening to music' part?
M entor Review :
In music rather than generic reference, mention type. E.g. English blues
and Bollywood numbers etc. And remove the “genuinely” in first line.
Rest is fine.
Now regarding your query, if you mention a specific type of music, then
prepare on the theory, popular artists etc. of that type.
My hobby is learning new things/practices which make my life easy and
better. Like, I have practiced to keep myself away from few of my
favorite foods in order to practice self-control; also i always search and
learn many things which will help me do my daily chores/ any work I do
in a better and brighter way instead of following the conventional
97 | P a g e
method, which I believe, would help me throughout my personal and
professional life. Apart from this, I like to solve sudokus and socialize
with family and friends in my free time.
M entor Review :
Fine. Go ahead. But be ready with other examples of new
things/practices (more tangible ones will be better rather than keeping
away from favorite food) just in case they ask for. Rehearse this well.
Sir I don't have anything tangible to say. I always explore the art of
living to its best and develop skills/methods that I need to do the same.
But one example is when I have lost my mother immediately after my
marriage I have managed to balance the needs of both families without
leaving anyone behind, despite it being a tremendous & irreversible loss
in my life. Please suggest what else I can do.
M entor Review :
Responding to your query, well what you are sharing is a very personal
share and a heavy loss is associated with it. Only share it if you are
comfortable doing so. Now as far as tangible is concerned obviously
things that you have done in your life would count in that. Now by
nature, you will always learn and improvise, as you are stating in the
answer then you would have multiple instances in your life which should
corroborate to that. Don't you think so? You just need to look harder.
May be some things which you are dismissing because you feel they are
too little or not important- Look into those.
98 | P a g e
I don't get much spare time as I'm always busy helping at my shop but
whenever I do I love to sit in peace or do pooja or mostly watch
cartoons - this is my favourite part. Some people say I'm childish as I
watch cartoons but i don't mind because my favourite anime series is the
main reason why I love my life to this extent and the will to not to give
up no matter what. It makes me a better person for the job and other
than that it keeps my mind creative. I've also planned to write some
story in near future just because of this.
M entor Review :
Don't be apologetic about watching cartoons. Reframe your answer with
the same content.
My hobbies are listening music, writing poem, shayari and playing mobile
games like PUBG. Also prepared my own shayaries and poems.
My hobbies relax me whenever it’s needed. Doing all these give me
pleasure and help to focus on my goal.
M entor Review :
Will do. But be ready for questions on your hobbies (especially PUBG &
other types of mobile games)
My hobbies are to write poems and to read answers on Quora. Writing
poem is a way of speaking your heart out through words and it makes
me a versatile person who is adaptable to different thoughts. By reading
on Quora I get to know about various other aspects which I am not
aware of and the experiences and knowledge that people share there on
99 | P a g e
Quora help me to evolve as a person. I feel more confident with
everything new that i learn.
M entor Review :
Writing Poems is OK, but "reading on Quora" is a little odd. It's like
saying Googling is my hobby. Reading what on Quora? Be a little
specific. If you are comfortable talking about it in general way then only
say that, but then remember you should be comfortable speaking about
a diverse range of topics.
I love to cook. I enjoy cooking cuisines from Kerala. In my friends’
hangout sessions, cooking section was controlled by me. Even when I
get a posting outside Kerala, concern about healthy food will be my least
priority.
M entor Review :
You can do away with the last line. Rather you can mention 1-2 favorite
dishes of yours in which you experimented or mastered.
Sir actually I do many things when I am free, it depends on my mood.
Sometimes I am listening to songs, watching TV or sketching. Besides, I
also love dancing. Sometimes I am just browsing internet. These
activities rejuvenate me and I feel refreshed. They give pleasure to my
mind and I feel relaxed.
M entor Review :
Make something look like hobby. You have mentioned so many and that
too un-importantly it seems pastimes rather than hobbies.
100 | P a g e
My hobbies are reading and teaching. I like reading about self help
related books. It motivates me to pursue my projects and maintains self
confidence. My last read is the subtle art of not giving a f**k by Mark
Mason. It is about a general personality. Like whenever anything
unwanted situation comes front of us... We all get frustrated and try to
make it positive. But instead of doing this, just try to accept situation as
it is and find ways to solve it. My other readings are the secret by rhonds
burne. The magic by Rhonda burne. Attitude is everything by Jeff Keller.
And I teach maths nd science of 10th std for free of cost.
Ratnabha Sir, A query: Book ka title...thoda different he...toh vaha panel

me kaise bolna chahiye? I think there should be no problem to saying
this. But still I would like to have your answer.
M entor Review :
Content wise the answer is fine but you need to work on the
presentation of it. Let me explain it through responding to your query.
You don't need to mention name of Books. But if you do, mention your
favourite ones. If Mason's book is your favorite one and you feel a little
awkward in pronouncing it- name the author first and then book.
In my free time I like pencil sketching...I am also fond of teaching. It is
like a symbiotic relation where both are benefitted...I keep on learning in
the process as I have to deal with different types of questions which may
not have come to my mind otherwise and it also helps the students who
don't belong to a well to do family background as it would be hard for
their parents to get them admitted in coaching centres.
101 | P a g e
Abhishek Sir the next question that I may be asked is "Why didn't you go
for a teaching job then?" I cannot think of a convincing answer. Sir
please help!!
M entor Review :
The answer is fine. You can go ahead with this.
Regarding your 2nd question, even if they ask, that gives you an
opportunity to say how banking is your career decision and knowledge is
something you love to impart. Don't try to find convincing answer. Frame
your answer well - that would be enough.
In my free time I love to do housekeeping. It helps in gaining satisfaction
and sense of achievement I like things that are well placed.
My hobby is playing badminton and it helps me in increasing my focus
towards my goal and learning from the mistakes that we commit. In
badminton if you are not focussed you'll miss the shot and I think it's
very important for one to be focused in his her life.
M entor Review :
Fine enough. Go ahead with this.
Q#14:- What are your strengths? / Why do you consider them

as your strengths? / Can you think of a situation where "this"
actually helped you get out of a tight spot?
I am a positive person who always looks for a glass half filled rather than
half empty! I have a strong will power & I push myself beyond the limits
to achieve what I want. Like in the men single final of our college annual
102 | P a g e
sports meet I was lagging behind my opponent by 10 points. Score was
11-1 in the final set. I was exhausted half way down the line. But after a
minute break when the play resumes somehow I gather energy &
positivity to come back & eventually beat him.
M entor Review :
Good. This Will do. But this is only one. Think about more strengths.
My biggest strength is my ability to stay calm in a stressful condition. A
month before my SBI PO exam last year my mom got her foot fractured.
I took care of her and managed the household as well without letting all
this hamper my preparations. I managed to clear both pre and mains
examination but unfortunately could not make it to the final list. I have
self motivating and positive attitude and this helps me introspect my
mistakes and learn from them so that i can improve myself.
M entor Review :
Good. You can go forward with this. Keep some examples from your life
handy.
I am a good listener and also a very patient person. I love to mingle with
people and hear them out. I consider it as my strength as it helps me to
interact with people easily and also handle the problematic situations
calmly.
M entor Review :
Good Answer. Keep some examples from your life handy.
103 | P a g e
Honesty, integrity and polite behavior are my strength. I can also take
leading part in any teamwork and achieve the goal. All these are my
strengths because it helps me to be successful in any situation. Yes, I
think so, because any awkward situation can be handled with good
behavior and honesty. I along with my friends formed a team and
inspired the local migrant labourers and low income households to save a
little amount everyday and deposit the same into the bank over regular
intervals. Thus we successfully able to grow the savings habit among the
vulnerable group of the society.
M entor Review :
Good Answer. Go forward with this.
My strength is my problem solving skills, my positive approach towards
problems & my humble nature. Also my ability to work hard to arrive at a
solution adds to my overall personality. Yes in my professional life, I was
able to crack a big deal due to my consistent effort, my communication
skills & my positive attitude.
M entor Review :
Good Answer. Freeze it.
I have good managing capabilities and ability to do well under pressure.
Most of the times, two or more exams fall together and there is always a
pressure to score well. I also prepare food sometimes and manage my
studies as well. I know when to do hard work and smart work. I also
104 | P a g e
possess good communication skills which helps me to be interactive and
persuasive.
M entor Review :
You can use this answer but have some specific examples rather than
theorizing your strengths.
My strengths are that I am self motivated person, full of optimism and
have positive approach for every problem. I can handle tremendous
pressure and stress very calmly and confidently. I have the ability to
manage things very efficiently and can lead a team very well. One thing I
think which is inbuilt in me is never giving up whatsoever the situation is
and always working hard and smart with full determination. During my
2nd trek i.e triune trek, I was the team leader. So I planned everything
from tip to toe, but this planning is nothing in front of nature. After 3-4
hours of trek, weather changed in a minute with clouds all around and
snowfall started. As we were in middle of the trek so everybody got
tensed and started thinking whether to go back or move ahead which
was looking impossible. But I was very clear in my mind that we will
complete this trek, I stayed calm and analysed every possible outcome if
we move ahead. Finally, with positive attitude I motivated everyone and
guided everyone. Path was very bad and due to snow it became worse
but i planned how we would cross it. After 5-6 hours of hardwork and
with teamwork and determination, we finally hiked to the top.
M entor Review :
Very Good Answer. Go ahead.
105 | P a g e
My strengths are my optimism, patience, cool and calmness. I also have
the ability of leading a team and achieve the goal.
I consider them as my strengths because with all these qualities any

tough situation can be tackled effectively.
Yes, I would like to share an incident where all these qualities really
helped me. During my engineering, I used to perform in theatres as a
part of my extra-curricular activity. So, once, the open national youth
festival was going to happen in our university. So, for that very fest we
were supposed to take part in the theatre competition. And for that our
theatre guru had handed over the script of a play "Kumar Swami" to me
and told me that he would be completely busy throughout the fest for
arranging various events and therefore had given me the duty of
managing the entire play by myself by making a team. He had given me
the complete freedom of selecting any person for any role whom I find
to be suitable for that very role. He told me that he had full faith in me
and my dedication and also added that he did not want any prize , the
thing that he want is the appreciation from the judges and the
audiences. These very words of him really became an energy booster for
me and also for my team that I made.
We practiced and rehearsed a lot and finally our hard work paid off and
we won the second prize in the competition after competing with many
institutes. And our guru was really very happy with our work.
M entor Review :
Good. Go ahead.
106 | P a g e
My strength is Optimism and Patience which I developed during my
entire years of preparation. Initially, I feel dejected with the negative
results, gradually I start admitting some more is needed to accomplish
my goals. So, with utter patience and perseverance I sharpened my
knowledge of understanding overtime. Yes, banking preparation is the
finest example of this situation.
M entor Review :
No Banking shouldn't be made an example!! You need better (>1
examples). So think a little more.
Sir I am a go getter with high will power. Whatever work is assigned to
me I give all what I have got to do it in the best way I can and in the
least possible time. As I was a fat kid, because of my determination in
three months I had lost 28 kgs when I was in class 10 and everyone
commended me for that. Besides that I consider my jolly nature as my
strength I usually connect with people very easily. Thirdly, my never
ending thirst to learn. I make sure I learn something daily and from
every situation and person I can and use it for my betterment.
M entor Review :
Good!! Go ahead with this. But reframe the first 2 lines in a different
way.
My strength is that I am a self motivated and optimistic person. These
two things have helped me a lot to face the failures during the time of
my preparations as there were few times when I was not able to qualify
107 | P a g e
my exams with some minor number. In those times, I kept on motivating
myself and worked hard and believed that I will come up with flying
colors.
It will be really disheartening if I don't get through it this time and it is

natural to feel sad as one has put in a lot of efforts and hard-work. But
yes I am optimistic that I will sail through this time and if not, I will be
sitting here again for the interview next year.
Samir Sir does this need any change?

M entor Review :
"I will be sitting here again for the interview next year." Why only
interview. Why limit your optimism? - Change this part to – “I will
introspect what went wrong, will work harder and will surely make it to
the final list next year.” Rest it seems you have got hang of the way you
have to answer.
I am honest hard-working and positive thinker; all these qualities make
me trustworthy as a person. Besides I always welcome challenges
because I believe that to overcome challenges I have to push myself and
that how I can grow. So I always honour the struggle in the journey no
matter what the result is. I took part many cricket tournament in my
locality. I admit I never win the finals, but I have reached one final and a
couple of semis. All these matches taught me great lessons. So I think
my strength always help me to improve as a person.
M entor Review :
The answer is OK but can be better if you instill some passion in it. Try
and rehearse if you are not able to reframe. That might help.
108 | P a g e
I am enthusiastic, disciplined, honest and trustworthy person. Because of
all these together I think I can be a good banker. My enthusiasm keeps
me active and full of zeal to work in any stable unstable environment and
helps me to keep my mind open to grab new bits of knowledge. Latter
qualities of mine make me a faithful employee for the organisation and a
humble service provider to the customers.
Abhishek Sir, can I add more of some achievement in my strength to

give example, like I won best boy award in my high school for my
discipline nature
M entor Review :
It sounds good. Just be ready to elaborate on any of the traits you
mentioned, and any further questions. Also, work on the language of this
answer.
Do not give examples from your childhood, if possible. Use recent ones.
College would be better.
Honesty, integrity, polite behaviour and good listening skills are my
strengths. I can also take leading part in team work. In my college and
during my internship I did always well when given a task to work in a
team, so I was looked at as a good team player. I am people’s person, I
like to interact with people and being a good listener I get gelled quickly
and it will also help me in this field.
M entor Review :
Fine enough. But reframe the line "I get gelled".
109 | P a g e
Curiosity - It makes me learn new things. From science in school to
technology in B.Tech to humanities for UPSC CSE and to economics and
banking for bank PO - this has helped me truly become a generalist. This
has also contributed in helping me develop my own opinion of things.
• Patience - I never fight or show my anger to other people. I have this

habit of keeping my negative emotions to myself. This has helped me not
to become a fickle minded person because of my curiosity. I am part of
Zooniverse project where we hunt for exoplanets in our galaxy. This is a
task that involves lot of patience because it is very difficult to detect the
signals from far off stars.
• Self sufficiency - I do not have any kind of consumerism in me and I

truly believe in "jitni chaadar ho utna hi pair failao". My parents have
inculcated this trait in me. This has helped me better manage my own
finances.
M entor Review :
If I am recollecting correctly, you have used "curiosity" as your weakness
too. Don't do that. Either use it as your strength or weakness – NOT
BOTH.
Q#15:- What are your biggest weaknesses? / How are you

trying to overcome them? / How would you be able to deliver in
your job with such kind of problems?
I have bad memory. Many times I have been in a situation when the
other person comes to me, shakes hands & starts talking to me & I am
110 | P a g e
wondering his name. It’s too embarrassing to ask the name! Trying to
actively address this issue.
M entor Review :
Very good example. It shows that you are working on your weakness.
Only 1 recommendation. Don't say "memory". Memory is too general a
term. It will also mean important work. Just explain the problem. You
don't always need to put one word to everything.
Sometimes, I take things too seriously... Few years ago, it was like if
somebody critcized me, I used to think about it day and night and felt
bad about myself. But as I came across many types of people and learnt
about their behaviour, I was mature to understand that if that person or
whatever he/she said is important, then I will definitely work on that and
strive to be a better person, but if a person is just trying to seek pleasure
by criticizing me, I have learnt to ignore it and maintain my calm.
M entor Review :
Good one. Freeze it.
I am claustrophobic.
Abhishek Sir, Can i mention this as a weakness? I am not getting any

other weakness. Can you suggest me some?
M entor Review :
You cannot use this as your weakness.
111 | P a g e
Regarding your query, please go through the lectures first. I am sure you
haven’t gone through our playlist.
I don't like to be criticized. Criticism hurts me. But now I've started
working on it. I've had some words with my father about this. He told
me that sometimes criticism gives you the scope to improve. It can make
you perfect in something in which you are just good. Take the positive
aspects of it not the negative ones. After having these words with my
father, I always try to look at criticism from another perspective. Yes, it
still disturbs me sometimes but now that I've started working on it, I
think I will be able to discard those disturbances very soon.
M entor Review :
Good One. But rehearse it well. You will have to be balanced in it.
At times, I underestimate myself or can be too critical of myself. I have
noticed this throughout my career that even when I’ve done well, I feel I
could have done more and this leads to negative self talk or sometimes
over analysing things. Now I have started to take a pause and celebrate
my small achievements. This has helped me to boost my self esteem.
M entor Review :
Good One. Freeze it.
My biggest weakness is that I am too straight forward. I am not afraid to
say anything to anyone without thinking about other's feeling. And I
112 | P a g e
think this is a strength too because I am able to express my thoughts
clearly than anyone else. I am trying to improve this weakness of mine
with self analysis. Correcting this will help me understand other's
emotions properly.
M entor Review :
Have you gone through the basic interview lectures? I have already
discussed what will be problems of generalising weaknesses in the way
you have done. Be specific. Go through the lectures and the comments
and responses here and see whether you can come with something
better.
Ratnabha Sir, can I say that my biggest weakness is I am not good in
remembering the figures of any data. To overcome this I try to find an
easy way to remember. Sometimes it become possible and some time
not. I also added some dry fruits in my diet which make easy to
remember things.
M entor Review :
Have mature examples from your experiences ready. If they are
consistent then this would do.
My biggest weakness is that I loose temper very rarely but when I do so
it’s very destructive in nature. I am currently working on it. I take
meditation sessions and will overcome it.
M entor Review :
Good. Go ahead.
113 | P a g e
I think my weakness is my emotional behaviour because sometimes
people want to make use of it. Sometimes even my friends made chance
of it. They come for some help but whenever I need their help they do
not support me. Now I am working on this by making myself little aware
and then taking any decisions.
M entor Review :
Primarily OK, you can use it, but you will have to reframe it in a different
way. It's too general.
I am not good in remembering road directions... This sometimes troubled
me but now technology has become the saviour and by using GPS, I am
able to handle this.
M entor Review :
But if they ask what is your weakness now, then what would you say?
Make that ready too.
I always aspire higher and work towards achieving the goals. But
sometimes it becomes impossible and I end up wasting time. This
happened when I decided to appear for RBI Grade B and started
preparing for it in three months before the exam which I think was quite
less a time as I need to build in-depth understanding of economics and
financial management. After that I realized I should set myself realistic
114 | P a g e
targets keeping in mind the time in hand and level of competition. So I
started preparing for SBI and IBPS PO.
M entor Review :
Good. Go ahead.
Unlike every person I also have some weaknesses. My biggest weakness
is I am not so fluent in spoken English. Sometimes I lack words to
express my thoughts. But I am working on it and I am confident that I
will get rid of it shortly and not let it affect me in any way in my job. For
this purpose I am reading English newspaper, discussing some topics
with my father and friends in English.
M entor Review :
It should be "Like every person" Rest is good.
My biggest weakness is I never accepted my weakness because I always
felt this world is a competition and if I show my faults, I am out of this
race. Due to this, 2 years back I lost some of my very close friends. It
was then that I realised that it is ok to have weaknesses and faults but
what is more important is to accept, and try to correct them. I was over
analyzing things and being very critical at times but now I meditate daily,
that makes me calm, I accept my mistakes, I say sorry, and I try to find
a solution to the situation rather than escaping. I am still working on it
and I feel this is why today I could gather the courage and accept this in
front of you all.
M entor Review :
115 | P a g e
Very Good one. But rehearse it well; it should be delivered with self
respect but without arrogance. The balance will only come when you
would rehearse.
I have this habit of putting things for later for example if there is an
assignment to be done in a week and I know I can do it in 2 days so I
will keep postponing it until 2 days are left and then in those 2 days I
would work very hard and complete it. I am trying to overcome it by
convincing myself that the deadline for something is earlier than the
actual date.
Sir, a query: Can we mention procrastination as a valid weakness in a

bank job?
M entor Review :
No it’s too general. And let me take the liberty of saying this that it is
false.
See, most of the times, the problem with us is that we generalise our
strengths and weaknesses with broad terms. Eg: - Do you procrastinate
if the job is important or excites your interest? - I suppose no, so then
why would you say so. Now if we take something which is boring and not
of immediate concern we all to on extent delay it to do something more
important or interesting.
So leave those one-word substitutes and try to capture your weakness in

a sentence rather than a word.
My biggest weakness is self criticism. When I fail to achieve some target
or unintentionally say something wrong which hurts people, I start self-
116 | P a g e
criticizing. Sometimes, it lowers my self confidence and proves
detrimental to my health. But now slowly I have started finding my
weakness and mistakes and try to correct it rather than self-criticizing.
M entor Review :
"self-criticism" is not a weakness, it's a necessity. Doing it too much
though is a weakness. Saying "self-criticism is my weakness" shows your
inability to identify correctly. Your weakness lies in that you "self-
criticise" yourself more than necessary. So reframe your answer on those
lines.
My biggest weakness is that I ask a lot of questions, which sometimes
provokes people. Although I do that for the sake of my clarity yet I am
trying to be more laconic and precise in asking questions.
Ratnabha sir, what i said is true. Will it work?

M entor Review :
Hmm! Very interesting but tricky. I am empathetic with you on this.
Brother, you are in the wrong place & time. In another place & time, this
would have been your greatest strength. I will try to help you in this by
framing a draft. See whether it helps you. Say it on the below lines
(sample below):-
"To arrive to a conclusion on an issue, I prefer to have data and
perspectives from different angle. For eg:- in a team activity to do that I
ask a lot of questions to my teammates and many a times those honest
queries are misconstrued as if I am displaying doubts in their capabilities
leading to confusion. This is one area where I want to improve. I need to
work on the ways of putting up my queries in an effective way, so that
others don't take it personally and my purpose is also solved.
117 | P a g e
Sir, the biggest weakness that I see in myself is my temper. There was a
time when I had very little control over it but as the time went by I found
those trigger points which led to these sudden outbursts. I have worked
hard on it and now I believe I have much more control over it. My
friends also tell me that my behaviour has improved by a good extent.
But, I know i still have a long way to go.
M entor Review :
OK but Have some examples which are not too extreme ready.
I can make friends very easily which happens to be one of my strengths
but sometimes it becomes my weakness as I start believing them and
they take advantage of me and I regret that latter.
I have been working on my weakness and I hope I will overcome this
soon.
M entor Review :
No don't state strength and weakness in same breadth. In a short
interview it leads to confusion.
Sir, my biggest weakness is that I have a habit of not giving up until my
task or work is completed and I get so much involved in my work until it
is finished satisfactorily because of which, unintentionally, I don’t give
much time or attend calls of my family and friends. When I talk to them
they understand me as they know how i am but i can clearly see that
118 | P a g e
sometimes they want me to spend some leisure time with them. I am
working upon this and soon i will learn to balance my work life with my
family without any negative effect on my work.
M entor Review :
Is this answer consistent with your work life balance answer? Secondly in
the first 4 lines, in the effort to sound positive, you ended up saying that
"not giving up until my task is completed" is weakness. Well that's not
right. So while talking about weakness talk about it, don't try to mask it
in strength.
You can say for Example: - Sometimes I cannot compartmentalize my
thoughts and concentrate on other things if a problem is unsolved.
Or you can reframe it in other ways.
Sir my biggest weakness is I overthink a lot. If someone close to me tells
me something sensitive which is for my own good I think it in other way
because of which I lose my temper but as I said it's because that person
is close to me I reconcile quickly. I talk to them about the matter and
clear the misunderstanding. I try to meditate and listen to music
whenever I find it disturbing.
M entor Review :
Seems genuine. Keep it.
Q#16:- What is your ambition in life? / What is your career

ambition?/ Where do you see yourself 5/10/20 years down the
line?
119 | P a g e
My ambition is to be happy and successful in whatever field I work in...
I want to make my career in banking sector as I am more inclined
towards it and it will help me to contribute to the society.
I see myself working in mid management level of a Public sector bank in
5-10 years.
M entor Review :
Will do, but rather than saying mid-management if you can direct
towards the kind of stuff you would want to do, that would be better.
My career ambition is to be very successful person and reaching new
heights by grabbing all the opportunities I get and my ambition in life is
that after I become stable in my life I want to help the needy section of
the society as much as possible. I see myself working as a chief manager
of SBI in next years and will work hard to take this organisation to new
heights.
M entor Review :
Good enough. Just know what roles a Chief Manager in different
departments do.
Sir, my career ambition is to be a successful banker by giving satisfactory
services to the society. And after I become stable, I would also want to
contribute in the education sector by making the children get well
acquainted and skillful with their passion, whatever they enjoy doing the
most. In the coming 5/10/20 years, I would like to see myself in a very
responsible position of a public sector bank from where I can contribute
to the organisation in a much effective way.
120 | P a g e
M entor Review :
A person can have career ambition and non-career ambition (based on
hobbies)? Interesting.. This one is OK. Also, if possible, ready a non-
career one too. That would add a zing to the answer.
Down the years I want to see myself working efficiently and giving my
best to my work and live joyfully and involve myself into the different
situation and try to create solutions of problems and keep going making
me productive for my society organisation for our country.
M entor Review :
Too general. Might do but rehearse it well.
Sir honestly speaking, planning for 10-20 years ahead is something that I
have not thought about but yes 5 years down the line I see myself
working with SBI in a mid management role. In these years I hope that I
would have widened my knowledge base and skill set and would have
contributed positively to the growth of the bank as well.
M entor Review :
Good. Go ahead.
Naming any particular position with my ambition will be putting a limit to
my growth. I want to use my communication, behaviour, labour and
honesty to its fullest and leave myself to them to take me where they
121 | P a g e
can. As of current perspectives, I will be in Middle management level
after 5 years and upper after 10/20 years. But Sir, I follow the saying
that "Only sky is the limit".
M entor Review :
Overtly adage oriented. When you are asked about "where do you see
yourself?” You are not supposed or required to quote designations, but
rather you are supposed to share the kind of responsibilities and job
profile that would keep you motivated. Reframe on those lines.
My ambition is to become a successful banker who will be a valuable
asset of banking field. In 5 years I will give my 100% to learn as much
as about banking to become a senior manager at least. In 10/20 years, I
want to be at high managerial post and having more responsibility, for
that whatever opportunities come in front of me, I will be very happy to
do all those.
M entor Review :
Rather than quoting designations can you talk about kind of
responsibilities you want to take. Think!
Sir in 10 years where I see myself is : can you see the blue salwar near
the 2nd counter she got her educational loan for pursuing her studies
and she is a sucessful engineer now serving people with correct payment
of dues. I feel blessed to serve that pensioner holding a stick near her
who is always a little grumpy but he is such a valuable customer. He is
banking here for 40 years with 2 FD accounts of his and his sons.
Though given an ATM card, he still comes here himself because he says
122 | P a g e
this is one window he comes for being in his home. This is where I see
myself sir as a Manager serving people better.
M entor Review :
Hmmm. Tricky one. If you are able to pull it off, this would be a real
good one. Rehearse and see whether you are able to strike a balance. It
should look genuine and on same time it shouldn't be melodramatic.
Besides doing cross functional roles in an effective and efficient manner I
would assist my juniors with the practical knowledge acquired through
these years. I will not stop my hunt for learning by preparing for
promotional exams. To attain a strategic position in an eminent
institution is my self actualisation goal and I will definitely work to satisfy
it.
M entor Review :
"Self actualisation" goal- Take care of the words. If you can comfortably
delve into the implications of these kind of words then only use them.
Rest content is good.
Sir, my ambition in life is to be at a place where my parents are happy,
satisfied and will feel proud of me. They have done and sacrificed a lot
for me now I want to be at such heights where they can say their hard
work has not gone in vain.
M entor Review :
This would not do. At your stage of life, you should have some active
and personal (your) reasons of why you are doing what- An ambition
123 | P a g e
which drives you to do challenging things. Parents being happy should
be a by-product not the main reason.
Just look at it this way- Your parents would be satisfied when you get
this job, but should you be? - Happy yes, but satisfied- no. Because if
you become satisfied too, you will not grow and neither will your
organisation. So organisation would always want a person who is driven
by inner fire. That fire would be different for different person, but it
should be dynamic and personal.
Q#17:- What has been your biggest achievement in life till

date? / What have been a few of your happiest moments in life?
/ Tell us about something that you have done that you are really
proud of.
I think my biggest achievement was that when I got 86%marks in my
10th board and I was in top 20 in my school. Then, my next
achievement as I think was my graduation 1st year exam in which I got
82%marks. Except these I have no further achievements. I appeared in
many examinations but was not successful but I never losed my hope
and believe in my self that I can do one day.
M entor Review :
Don't equate achievement with marks only. Think about your personal,
sports, cultural, humanistic achievements. This answer will not do.
Sir, I've been a topper in my school and college. I think those were great
achievements. But passing the SBI PO Mains is the biggest achievement
124 | P a g e
of my life till now. Because I've never seen my parents so much happy
earlier. My father almost started dancing in joy. For the first time I was
having a feeling that I've done something worthy for my parents. So that
is my biggest achievement.
M entor Review :
If you want to keep it, you can but have 1 or 2 more achievements apart
from this. Only this would be inadequate.
Sir, I am the one who finds happiness in each and every moment of life
whether it comes from helping the needy or from accomplishment of the
small goals. So, it is very difficult to choose the happiest moment of my
life but if I talk about some of those moments then I would say, I have
topped in the 5th class at the district level which set up a different image
among the teachers and students and that was a proud moment for me
and my family as well. My father is very fond of cricket, and he enjoys
watching my game whenever he has free time, the day when I scored a
quick half-century in my school games and helped my team to win that
game that was the one of the happiest moment ever and I remember my
father was blushing and I know life can't give more than this to anybody.
That was a true feeling I ever had and I will remember that till my last
breath. Cracking this exam and sitting in front of the exceptional
personalities is also the happiest moment and i am enjoying it.
M entor Review :
1-2 examples of college life would have added wings to this response.
Also, you may avoid the last line of your answer.
125 | P a g e
I have defeated the present women grandmaster Padmini Rout in an
inter school chess championship after a hard fought match which I
consider the biggest achievement in my life till now. My life has just
started and there are many goals which I wish to achieve in future and I
believe I would achieve them with my sincerity and hard work.
M entor Review :
See as it is a school time achievement you can list it but for biggest one
till date, a more recent one is preferred. See if you can find anything
else. Say this also but say the recent one first.
My biggest achievement till date is that we have seeds and fertilizer shop
at home and due to some reason my brother couldn’t join company and
the entire shop work was left with me and my father and at that time
everything was a mess due to loan and extra material at shop. I used my
business tactic on how to sell and what skills were required to sell those
products. I learnt everything from my brother through phone call and we
had a big profit and everything was settled in just two seasons. Baaically
my efforts saved us from facing big loss at such a critical situation. I am
not from agriculture background but the farmers got there results with
our suggestions. That makes me happy and my family too.
# Sir a query: I am working on my English. I made mistakes but I will

choose to speak in Marathi or Hindi will I?
M entor Review :
Answer is good. Go ahead.
Regarding your query See language shouldn't be a problem. Switch to

Hindi if you are more comfortable in it.
126 | P a g e
Q#18:- What has been the saddest moment in your life? / Is
there something in your life that you regret and wish you could
change?
My saddest moment was missing out SBI PO final list by 0.17 marks. I
was disheartened but from the next day I worked harder & smarter to
make qualify IBPS mains. My saddest moment will eventually lead to the
happiest moment in my life when I will be shortlisted for IBPS!
M entor Review :
You can use it, but rehearse it well.
My saddest moment was when in ibps I scored 20 marks above the
overall cutoff but missed GA sectional by 0.25. That was very saddening
for me but I decided not to lose hope and keep working on it
M entor Review :
Go ahead with this.
Saddest thing in my life was I took a wrong decision many times. Being
an engineering graduate, I did not join any IT company instead I went
for a lectership and now the condition of engineering colleges is worst so
the vacancy for lectureship is very low. And I am unemployed since two
years. But the good part is iIcame to know about banking exam where I
can see my future.
127 | P a g e
M entor Review :
Interview is not a place to criticize your past decisions. Even if you did
something in your career which was not perfect, still you learnt from it.
Right? So don't do this.
Find out something else, something where you tried and failed or some
unfortunate occurrence etc. and rewrite this answer.
The saddest day of my life is losing my smartphone just before the day
of my on-campus interview. It was very precious to me as it was my first
phone in my life ever and gifted by my late grandfather.
Although it might sound very common and mere monetary loss but I was
very much disheartened, couldn't concentrate on preparation for the next
day. However I trained myself to forget that mishap and cleared the
interview. Also from that day onwards, I became extra cautious to take
care of my personal belongings.
M entor Review :
Fine enough. Freeze it.
There are a lot of sad moments but with God’s grace, there is no saddest
moment. And, no i have nothing to regret, whatever happens, happens
for good, accept past and change the future, I should change my future
not past.
M entor Review :
Too philosophical, if this question is asked directly, this answer will not
suffice.
128 | P a g e
Q#19:- Do you care for the society? / What are the social issues
you care about? / Do you do anything about them?
Yes, I care about the society. I like cleanliness, so I do not throw
garbage on the roads and ask people not to do so.
Also pollution is one of the major concerns among us. For that I always
prefer public transport and avoid using personal vehicle. And if somehow
I have to use my personal vehicle, then I turnoff the engine on traffic
signals and jam, and urge people to do the same.
M entor Review :
You can use it as answer.
Yes I do care for the society. I hate corruption and I am and will always
be an honest person. I also despise the unawareness of sanitary napkins
these days. We have a group of some persons and we try to make
women and grls aware of the use of sanitary napkins.
M entor Review :
Good! Go forward with this. If you are really working on awareness of
"menstrual hygiene", depending upon your level of involvement, you can
make this a part of some larger responses too.
129 | P a g e
Yes sir, as every other responsible citizen of this country, I also care for
the society. Although right now, I am not in the capacity to do much, but
I am trying. I do this by not wasting water, saving electricity, not using
crackers and preferring public transport. I also encourage others for the
same; I hope our future generation will get a cleaner and greener earth
through our united efforts.
M entor Review :
Better not to mention the last line. End it at the previous line.
Sir, society is an integral part of human civilization and I believe that
everyone should do their bit in contributing something good to it. If we
go on finding, there are many things about which one can feel
disheartened. The one which affects me the most is education of children
and a basic two times meal.
I am associated with an organization called Robin Hood army. Basically,

they arrange for food distribution drives for the poor underprivileged
children. Whenever I get time I join the food drive and contribute my bit
to it.
For education till now I haven't done anything but yes I plan of financing
the education of children, if not many then maybe at least one, but yes
one for sure.
M entor Review :
Good!! Go ahead.
130 | P a g e
I do care about society. There are many issues to deal with. But mostly I
work towards literacy rate. Because education is so necessary that it can
develop new vision and can direct towards progression. So I started one
NGO like organization in 2012 in which I teach maths and science to
economically weaker students of 10th for free of cost.
M entor Review :
Good one!! Go ahead.
Yes I do care for the society, although there are so many issues to care
about but what bothers me the most is littering in public places. Most of
the people throw the wrappers, polythene and other non-biodegradable
waste all over the places. I never throw something in place where it
doesn't belong. If there is no dustbin, I keep that trash in my bag and
throw it in dustbin whenever I see one. I also suggest my family
members and many people to not throw trash if they are about to, in
front of my eyes.
M entor Review :
Good. Freeze it.
Yes, I do care about society. I believe in giving back to society. If we
have more than enough then it is our duty to share it with unprivileged
ones.
I mostly care about the illiteracy & hate on the based on caste, religion
etc. I think by giving proper education to the underprivileged section of
the society both the problem can be solved.
131 | P a g e
I give free classes to the poor children of my neighbourhood every
Sunday. I have a dream of opening a school where free education to the
poor children will be given so that they can grow and contribute toward
the development of the society.
M entor Review :
Good. Freeze it. You should make this a part of your intro too.
Yes I do care for the society. There is not just one thing that bothers but
there are many. Everything is related to corruption and ill mind set of the
people. Wish I could clean my country of corruption which is eating the
society from the roots. Due to this corruption many of the needy people
are deprived of the basic things of life. I try helping by associating myself
with charity works of the church. We distribute clothes, provide books
and stationaries to kids in orphanage and even provide food on some
special occasions at leprosy home and old age home. Spending time with
them and bringing smiles on their face really it's so blissful.
M entor Review :
The following part (part in inverted comma) is too generalistic and hence
not very mature. So change it or delete it. “Everything is related to
corruption and ill mind set of the people. Wish I could clean my country
of corruption which is eating the society from the roots.”
Rest is OK.
Yes sir I care for the society. I am coordinating member of an NGO ujjala
which works for children of poor sections of society. We collect money
132 | P a g e
for their uniforms and fees. It helps them to have dreams and hope to
achieve them.
M entor Review :
Good. Go ahead.
Yes sir, I do care for the society. The most poisonous issue that still
exists in this present era and not only in the rural area but also in the
urban area, is the issue of discrimination regarding religion, caste,
language, race. Whosoever gets connected with me whether my friends
or anybody, I always try to make them realise the fact that negative
characters can be there in anyone. It is we who should always try to
spread happiness in the society by removing all sorts of animosity in an
unbiased manner.
M entor Review :
Fine enough. Go ahead with this.
Q#20 What would you do if you are not selected here? / What is
your back-up plan if we don't select you?
Sir that will be disheartening but I will analyze myself where I got wrong,
what mistakes I have made and then come with more energy. Will try
my best to get success that time. Apart from banking I am preparing for
ssc exam also and I have given my state PSC exam and waiting for the
result.
133 | P a g e
Sir a query, if I tell them that I have prepared for civil services in these
last 4-years then will they ask me from that section also.
Sir one more thing I have cleared pcs exam pre should I tell them or
not?
M entor Review :
You can go ahead with this. But be prepared what if after your selection
you get SSC results?
Responding to your query now, if you are already saying that you have
prepared for it why won't you mention you’re clearing Pre? Go ahead.
Sir, it will be really disappointing for me if I am not selected. I have
prepared well this time and tried to remove my last year mistakes and
now I'm here in interview. I think I will be selected this time.
M entor Review :
As an initial response it's ok, but if they insist on still if you aren't
selected what would you do? - Have a response to that.
No problem. I will prepare for the next year.
M entor Review :
No Problem!!! Don't you think, it will be disheartening? – I think it would
be.
134 | P a g e
Well sir, I'm a very hard working person and at the same time I'm very
practical as well. For some time it'll be in mind...I’ll feel little bad... but
I'll pat my back... get my determination back... and I'll start it over
again... I don't believe in giving up as long as my chances are there. I'll
analyse what went wrong and will try to work on those areas more and
come back strong next year with more efficient preparation and try
again.
M entor Review :
Good!! Go ahead.
Sir A query: this is my last year to appear for all these government
exams so God forbid if I don't make it this time what can I say would be
my back up plan.. I was thinking that i'll say I'll try in pvt banks or pvt
job maybe...will that sound ok?
M entor Review :
Yes obviously you will do something. So this shows your commitment to
your career. Go ahead.
Q#21:-We have interviewed so many amazing candidates here.

You think you stand a chance? / Why do you think you should
be selected?
Sir for an aspirant banker what I understand you would be looking for a
person with adaptibility, positivity, never give up attitude and a zeal to
135 | P a g e
serve others. Being involved in Sports and NGOs I have inculcated all
those qualities in me.
M entor Review :
Reframe it. Try writing it in a linkage way like in the structure below:-
"Sir for aspirant banker, what I understand, you would be looking for X,
Y, Z. Through my A experiences I have inculcated X, through my B
experiences I have inculcated Y and so on."
Sir you should always select a candidate who is hardworking, who has
the ability to communicate well, who is self motivating and at the same
time capable of motivating others, who has leadership skills. I think I
possess all these qualities, so you should select me.
M entor Review :
Avoid saying "Sir you should"; just to make it a stress interview they
might pull up this and say "So now you would teach us what we should"
and then unnecessary confrontation would happen.
Sir, I am optimistic, hardworking, easily get familiar with persons, self
motivated, so I think I should get this chance. Though I don't have any
experience but when given I will do full justice with myself and my
company.
M entor Review :
Inadequate. Think a little more.
136 | P a g e
My educational background, creative ability and adaptability to any
situation make me a strong prospect for this job.
M entor Review :
This will do if they don't prod further, but if they prod what would you
say? Get that also ready in your mind.
I am a practical person, I believe in achieving best result in whatever
resources we get. I do not believe in excuses- I believe ideal situation is
not possible in life. Being from computer science background makes me
easily adaptive to new technologies. We don't know what more
technologies going to come in banking industry. I love to learn new
technology.
M entor Review :
Go Ahead.
For someone to be banker one must be a target oriented, quick learner
and customer friendly. And I think the skill set which I learnt in
academics and during teaching (as home tutor) is apt for me to be a
banker...
M entor Review :
If you have addressed questions of skills and strengths in the interview
before this question, then this answer would do. But if before this
question, you haven't mentioned your strengths and skills and how you
acquired them then you will have to have a more comprehensive answer
137 | P a g e
which will be nothing but including the elements of Intro and Career
questions into this.
I think/presume that I am one of those amazing candidates you had
interviewed. I am optimistic, hardworking and sincere. Working in a
challenging situation brings the best outcome of mine. I believe my
performance along with my qualities will help me to be selected.
M entor Review :
This would do if you can tell it in a well tone manner. Go ahead with this
answer but rehearse well.
Sir, I think I possess all the qualities of a good banker which are
patience, adaptability, a never give up and positive attitude. So I think
these qualities will help me to get selected.
M entor Review :
This is short and sweet and sometimes it works best. But if your
interview is till exploratory in nature then be ready to build on it a little.
Yes sir, I definitely stand a chance here among a bunch of amazing
candidates. For an aspirant banker, what I understand, you would be
looking for a person who has right set of skills. I am a self-motivated
person, with full of optimism and have positive approach for every
problem. From my travelling experiences, I know how to interact well by
understanding people and it also boosted up my communication skills. I
138 | P a g e
am adaptable to any place or situation. From my trekking experiences
and taking part in various college activities and also organising events in
college has helped to develop leadership and management skills and it
has also helped me to handle pressure and stress very calmly and
confidently.
Studying around 40-50 subjects in engineering shows that m quick
learner and have knowledge in every domain which can also be very
beneficial for me to perform better. So I have right set of skills and also
knowledge as required by you in desirable candidate.
M entor Review :
Sir everyone is unique. No two humans are the same. Since we all are
today standing at the same point we are all amazing in one way or
another.
Yes sir I stand a chance to shine out in this pool of amazing people
because I am a very curious person and it makes me learn new things.
From science in school to technology in B.Tech to humanities in UPSC
CSE to economics and banking for bank PO. This has helped me truly
become a generalist. Sir I am very patient person and I never fight or
show my anger to other people which will be very useful because as a
banker I will be dealing with different types of people having different
levels of understanding.
M entor Review :
Generalist?? If you are not deliberately in a mood to discuss terms like
this then avoid them. Also rather "than never show my anger" write "I
have control over my anger".
139 | P a g e
Each one of us is amazing as we cleared the 2 phases of exam and yes
I'm sure enough that I stand a chance to get selected as i have got
better communication skills, controlled temperament. I know how to deal
with different kinds of people. I'm honest and friendly too.
M entor Review :
Change "better" to good. You don't have idea about others so can't
comment.
As we all have cleared the two phases of exam its clear all here are really
amazing but I still think I stand a chance. This is the post for the
manager and I manage a family. I do multitasking by taking care of my
family and preparing for the exam. I have gone through extreme
pressure in life but still managed without giving up and do my
responsibilities with dedication. Even I can manage in any place as I am
good at 4 languages and very sociable. I think these qualities are very
much required for this job.
M entor Review :
Good one!! Go ahead.
Working in a bank requires dealing with customers with diverse
background and understanding their problem. I have diverse cultural
experiences and language exposure. Besides Hindi and English, I can
speak Nepali, Maithili and kannad. So if I get posted anywhere in India I
can adapt to that place which would in turn help me to establish a good
customer relation.
140 | P a g e
M entor Review :
Good one. Go ahead.
Sir Meri graduation 2015 mein complete Hui hai, after then I took
admission in msc mathematics but I left it after 1 year due to my mother
diagnosed with cancer and we had to move from Jammu to Chandigarh
almost every month. Even abhi bhi jate hai, that's why I have not done
any job during these years, only pvt tutions.
Sir Mein answer kaise frame karu ki mein Apni mumma ki disease
interview mein na batau and answer bhi reliable ban jaye
M entor Review :
It should be matter of fact. If something bad happened and it changed
your life in a significant way, you can't ignore it. But don't just mention
it; talk a little more about it. Focus more on how this phase made you a
better, stronger individual. Mention the skill-set that you possess in
general and also the value addition that this phase resulted in, and then
create a comprehensive answer to this question.
I do believe that all the aspirants appearing for the interview are equally
deserving and posses unique talents. One thing I must mention which
very few have is punctuality and attentiveness. I always maintain proper
timing and have hardly delayed ever. Also even during the final semester
of my college days, I had almost 100% attendance. My priority and love
towards work/ study has only driven me to achieve this...
M entor Review :
Well Framed. Go ahead.
141 | P a g e
Q#22:- You come across as a good candidate. We are happy
with your performance. But there are limited vacancies. Now
tell us a reason for which we should not select you. Help us.
Thank you sir, for considering me as a good candidate! Since I am a
fresher and don’t have any practical experience of working in any bank
or financial institution, it can be a possible reason of not selecting myself
as a Probationary Officer in SBI.
M entor Review :
Short and Sweet - will do. But then if they counter-question, so why do
you think we should select you? Keep that ready too. (Something on the
lines being fresher, I will also bring new perspectives kind of thing.) Keep
it just in case.
Sir, I am glad to hear that you have considered me a good candidate so
far. I think I have met all the criteria required for this job. If you still
want to know why I should not been chosen, I can say that I can't
tolerate unethical work among the organisation. So you should not hire
me if you are looking for someone who will just blindly follow his senior's
orders even if it’s not ethical.
M entor Review :
If you are able to pull it off without sounding derogatory, then it will be a
good answer. However, avoid using phrases like “unethical work in
organisation”. It would not sound appropriate in your situation. Make it
142 | P a g e
mild. You may rather say something like “If I see an individual indulging
in unethical practices, I cannot hold myself back…”
Sir, I am not afraid to voice my opinion and never hesitate to deny
something which I feel is wrong whether it's a command or a suggestion.
I will never compromise with my ethics.
If this gives you a strong reason to not select me then you may.
M entor Review :
It's a double edged sword. Will you be able to pull off without sounding
demeaning? If yes then go ahead.
Thank you for considering me as a good candidate and happy to know I
could give a good performance but still if you ask me why I shouldn't be
selected I can tell that I don't have a prior experience of working in a
company or a bank. In this gap I got to learn a lot and develop in
various aspects of life. I still think the knowledge and maturity which I
gained in this period will enable me to discharge my responsibilities
efficiently.
M entor Review :
Sir first of all thanks for considering me as a good candidate. Although, I
feel I have all the basic qualities of getting the job, but yes if anyone
143 | P a g e
from core finance background is preferred, then I might be in the
disadvantageous position as I am from science background and did my
MBA in marketing specialisation only.
M entor Review :
Good One. Go ahead.
Q#23:- What are the challenges of a working in a bank? Do you

understand them? If yes, why are you still willing for this job?
The first and foremost challenge is to fulfil higher customer expectation
from SBI. Improving capital adequacy ratio, improving asset quality,
profitability and reducing NPAs are some other challenges of working in a
bank.
Yes sir I understand all these challenges. Sir, I am confident to tackle all
these challenges through my strengths like hard working, situation
understanding and decision making ability upto the satisfaction of myself
and the organization as well.
M entor Review :
Good. Go ahead. Only thing you will not be in charge of NPA directly so if
asked you need to make a link of your contribution if in a small way in
that direction.
There is no job which is easy. It is our perspective about it. We
categorise it according to our interest. Banking has its own set of
challenges. But with my ability to interact with diverse people,
144 | P a g e
understanding their problems, looking for speedy solutions will definitely
help me to face those...
M entor Review :
Good. Go ahead.
Interacting with customers from different backgrounds, understanding
their needs, and helping them with a satisfactory service are definitely a
challenge. Also the pressure of achieving targets within stipulated time
will also be a challenge. Yes, sir I understand all these challenges.
There is no such job without challenges sir. Challenges do make the life
an exciting one. No matter what the results are, but after facing all the
challenges with full dedication, when I would be having my salary in my
hand in the month end, I can atleast be proud of myself, that yes, I
really deserve this and that self motivation is very important.
M entor Review :
Good. But rehearse it.
Every job has its own challenges. As banking is a service sector we come
across diverse groups of people and we need to patiently hear their
problems and find solution. Then currently banks are facing the NPA
problems which have to be dealt with calm and then there is this target
set which we to meet in a deadline set. Yes all these builds pressure but
I still like facing these challenges.
M entor Review :
Good. Go ahead.
145 | P a g e
Working in a bank requires you to be very responsible and accountable
for whatever you do. High work pressure, ability to maintain customer
relationship meet targets etc. are the various challenges one may face
depending upon his personality but sir, I am confident that I will tackle
all of them with my strengths and a little bit of challenge is required if
someone wants to grow in his life so these challenges will help in getting
skills required for the professional and personal development of mine.
M entor Review :
Good. Go ahead.
Q#24:-Would you be interested in exploring opportunities in

private banks after working here for a few years? If no, why
not; they may pay better? If yes, why should we hire you, train
you?
Sir, I am not interested to join in Private sector bank. If salary was a
concern, I would not leave my current IT job after six and half years. I
think SBI will provide me better job security and career growth. Also
being a patriot at heart I always wanted to join the most patriotic branch
in India who has a reach from rural level to industrial level and would
contribute in GDP of India.
M entor Review :
Patriotism?? Too much. This wouldn’t do. Reframe it.
146 | P a g e
Public sector banks reach to the masses even in the remotest part of the
country. The financial inclusion aim was achieved though public sector
banks only, most of the government schemes are carried out by public
sector banks, unlike private banks who are only concerned to earn
profits. Public Sector Banks serve the society on a larger scale and have
a deep impact in the economy.
M entor Review :
End it with something like "I would like to be a part of it." Also if you can
add on 1-2 liner about what's your dream or expectation about your
career and how SBI and not a private bank will help in it, which would be
better.
No Sir, I am not interested in exploring opportunities in private banks
though they would pay me better. Public sector banks have a very
extensive network and they reach all the sections of the society from
small farmers to top industrialists and benefit them. SBI provides
immense career growth, job security, to its employees. There is ample
scope to gain more experience. Working in SBI, I can contribute to the
economic growth of the nation, being my job satisfaction.
M entor Review :
Go ahead with this but rehearse it well.
No I am not interested in joining a private bank. Yes even though the
private sector pays high salary, job security is always a question mark. I
prefer not to work in such a speculative environment but rather work in
147 | P a g e
the country's largest lender which reaches every corner of the country. It
would be of immense pleasure to work with such a goal oriented bank
which works for the policies of the government.
M entor Review :
It is unwise to use Job Security as your main reason to join a company.
Frame a better answer.
No, Obviously not!! I have put lot of efforts to get into PSB, where I will
get real life satisfaction by contributing into growth of the economy, I
want a work-life balance environment and that's better in PSB when
compared to private banks. And PSB pay enough to lead a financially
stable life. So I'm bit sure to continue in same organisation.
M entor Review :
Prepare for the following scenarios:-1. They say Work-life balance is not
good here. 2. So you think pvt. organisations don't contribute to growth?
Also avoid words "real-life satisfaction" – They are ambiguous.
I prefer SBI over any other bank because of the tremendous growth
opportunities it provides. SBI is the only Bank I have applied for. I would
be happy to be part of largest Indian Bank in the foreign market.
Employee gets the opportunity to work abroad for 3 – 5 years. This
purely based on merit.
M entor Review
Narrative is a little disconnected. Try to frame it in a better way
148 | P a g e
No sir, I am not interested in exploring opportunities in private sector
banks even if they pay me better. Because sir for me life is not only
about monetary satisfaction it is also about the satisfaction of serving the
mass. Public sector banks or more precisely SBI being the largest public
sector bank has a very extensive network of customers covering people
from all backgrounds, and so working for SBI I would be able to reach
and serve the maximum. Moreover SBI provides an immense career
growth and a better social standing to its dedicated and honest
employees. So, there would be an ample scope for me to gain more
experience.
M entor Review :
Good enough. Rehearse it well so that it doesn't sound made up.
Sir it would be an honour and privilege to work in SBI which is the
largest commercial bank in India and ranked 216th on the Fortune Global
500 list of world's largest corporations in 2017. Sir working in a Public
Sector Bank brings job stability, job security and respect in the society
which any amount of money from pvt banks cannot provide. I believe
that I will get tremendous growth opportunities within SBI itself so there
would be no reason for me to look outside. And I will try my best to
utilize those opportunities and contribute to the growth of the bank as
well.
M entor Review :
Leave the "Job Security" "Job stability" part. At least don't make it the
first 2 points.
149 | P a g e
Ratnabha Sir a query: I don't understand the job security part. If I
explain the interview board about Maslows hierarchy chart. It does
explain how any security be it financial, emotional leads to maximum
output from a person. Would it still create a negative impact on the
board?
M entor Review :
The problem is most of the aspirants when they say this point sounds
like “Sir I want Public sector job because even if I don't work you can't
fire me". Well Maslow would be hard pressed to accept this.
Think it this way, if you use security argument in Maslow's hierarchy then
any white collar job in a good organization gives that. So that can't be
the only reason. There has to be something more.
No sir, I'm not interested in exploring opportunities in private banks. If I
wanted I could have gotten that job easily a few years back as a friend
of mine is assistant manager in ICICI and he offered me a job but I want
to work in a PSB.
M entor Review :
But “why” is the main question? You haven’t answered that. Reframe
this.
Q#25:- Since you don't seem interested in working in the

private sector, are you looking for govt jobs or openings in other
public sector units? Tell us about it.
150 | P a g e
No sir I am not interested in working anywhere else than a bank. This is
the part which I decided at the starting of my preparations at that time I
matched my strengths, skills, and ambitions with all the profile and I
found that banking suits me best because here I can utilize my strengths
and skills fully, it has a well-defined career progression path, this
industry is customer-oriented where you have to interact with the
customers on a daily basis which as an extrovert suits me and make me
feel happy and this industry is so dynamic that it has always something
to offer for the growth of your personality which will benefit me in my
professional as well as in my personal life.
M entor Review :
Will do. Go ahead.
Yes sir, I am not interested in private sector. And for other public
sectors, if I got chance to work there then also I will like to work for a
public sector bank instead of that. I want to join only banking industry as
there are many reasons from my side - like banking industry is more
secure and safe for girls; it gives new and challenging opportunities and
makes able to contribute in country's development.
M entor Review :
"Safe and secure”:- Make it last point. And frame it how I have done in
the below lines. Obviously use your own words:
In our country banking industry is more concerned about their

employees especially female employees and that reassuring nature of
this industry makes it my first priority.
151 | P a g e
Sir, I am not interested in working for private sector but I am also
looking for public sector banks over other public sector units because:-
1) Through public sector banks I would be able to reach maximum
amount of people from different backgrounds and provide service to
them.
2) Secondly, as we all know India's economy is growing at a faster rate
and banking sector is the backbone of Indian economy, so, it would be a
huge motivating factor for me that somewhere down the line indirectly
ofcourse, but I would be able to make a contribution for the nation's
economic development.
3) Lastly, banking sector provides huge opportunity for a faster career

growth to its employees, who are dedicated, genuine and very honest
with their work.
Sir a query: can I use the same reasons as why banking?

M entor Review :
This one is good. Yes definitely you can.
The main difference between Pvt Sector and Govt sector is job security.
In a current job like mine, layoffs might happen anytime, also
dependency on foreign countries make them highly unstable. Compare to
this bank jobs in PSU (SBI) can give me better job securities. By working
in this sector, I can directly contribute to the economic growth of my
country. I would like to be a part of the recent transformation in banking
industries.
M entor Review :
152 | P a g e
Imagine you are a recruiter and the candidate comes and says the
reason I want to join is that even if I don't work you will not be able to
fire me (that's what security means. Right?). Will you select him? If not
why are you giving the same reason? Think of something more positive.
Sir, I am not interested in working in the private sector but I am looking
for the govt. jobs and public sector units specially banking. I really prefer
banking over other sectors because-
1. Banking sector will provide me the opportunity to directly

communicate with people from small farmers to top industrialists.
2. It will provide job security, immense career growth and financial

stability to me.
3. Working in this sector, I can directly contribute to the economic

growth of the nation.
4. Since my father worked in the banking sector, I want to follow his

footsteps.
M entor Review :
The part where you talk about your father - make it an inspiration &
starting point to join banking and not the main reason. Rest 3 you can
say as reasons.
Q#26:-Who is your role model? / Who is your childhood idol? /

Whom do you idolise? / What qualities of this person appeal to
you, and what have you learnt from him/her?
153 | P a g e
My idol is my dad. My dad is a cancer fighter. He had 2 operations
already and still fighting against it since last 9 years. He always
motivates me to pursue my aim however difficult it may be. I am always
inspired by him by seeing how he does his work with never-ending zeal
and enthusiasm. He always emphasizes on the proverb "If there is a will
there is a way" and I think he personifies this.
M entor Review :
Very good. Go ahead
Sachin Tendulkar is my idol. Because of this man, cricket becomes a
religion in India. He saw the dream to win world cup for India, waited for
22 years and in 2011 WC helped India to win the world cup by scoring
second highest runs in the tournament. He turned his dreams into
realities. I hope my dream to be a SBI PO will be real soon.
M entor Review :
Will do. Be prepared with questions on Sachin.
My role model is my father and my husband. My father always motivates
me and encourages me to get my dreams. Being a daughter he has
always supported me more than my brother. He never said no to me for
anything. He is always with me in any phase of life to support me. And
my husband always understands me and supports me to become
successful. He made my dreams his own dreams and he is also working
on my dreams to come true.
154 | P a g e
M entor Review :
Will do but see, ideal answer would be, if by their life they have provided
points to you which you use in your own life too. So see if you can
reframe on those lines.
My role model and my idol is my mother. Coming from a little village and
being a middle-class woman she dared to dream big that's why now at
her age she's able to run a successful business. Her leadership qualities
her fight against all odds inspires me a lot. Her never-ending zeal to
learn new things is really astonishing. When women of her age are busy
watching daily soaps she prefers learning nuances of new apps and new
techniques of the market. Her patience and willpower is something I
have learned and still learning from.
M entor Review :
Definitely a different answer!! If you can say it well, it will be good. Try
to include this piece of info (Mom's business) even when not directly
asked, maybe in intro or someplace where it can be conveniently and
appropriately incorporated. Also, do know the ins and outs of your Mom's
business.
Honestly, I do not have a single role model. I observe the world around
me and try to take inspiration from each and every source I can. It can
be the struggle of a sportsperson to make it big in his career. It can be
my Mom and Dad who have done their absolute best to make sure I get
the best facilities to grow and pursue my dreams. I try and learn from
their struggle and tell myself, “If they can, so can I.”
I must mention that my dad is my inspiration for me taking up banking
155 | P a g e
as my career. He was a distinguished banker in Bank of Baroda and he
inspired me to take up banking.
M entor Review :
Good would do. But rehearse it well.
Q#27:- Are you a team player? / Do you prefer working alone or

in teams? / How important is teamwork for the success of an
organisation?
I am a team player and a Philomath as well. I think teamwork fosters
creativity and learning. I have always believed that 2+2= 5. In my
opinion a team can always have better decisions than individuals. I was
the captain of my school cricket team and being a captain I was aware of
which player should be placed at what place on the field as per his
strength. For instance, one of my teammates had a very sharp vision so I
always used to place him at slips while fielding.
M entor Review :
Tone down the philosophy; focus on your experiences and your learning
from them. You take the example of cricket and then how it has shaped
you or you say this is what you have and give an example of a particular
incident from your cricketing experiences.
Yes, I am a team player. Working in team provides you with the idea of
sharing your thoughts and also get many innovative ideas. I was an
active partner of my school and college dance and drama teams. It gives
156 | P a g e
you a thought of being better than another one. A feeling of competition
makes you work even harder.
M entor Review :
Fine. Go ahead.
Yes sir I am a team player. There are some events where I worked both
as team member and a team leader. Working with a team gives us
different solutions to a problem and one of them can be best to apply to
situation. Working alone means you have only one solution to apply
whatever this is.
M entor Review :
Fine enough go ahead, just don't demean working alone. It's situational.
Yes sir, definitely I am a team player, I got to know the value of team
work during my theatre performances as well as my during my MBA
through humongous amount of project works.
I always prefer working in team over working alone.

For an organisation team performance plays a vital role in developing
innovative ideas, because an individual can only think from very few
perspectives but when multiple people's different point of views are
taken into consideration , it really helps in creating something new which
no one has ever thought about.
M entor Review :
Add this dimension that theater, street plays couldn't have happened
without Team. Rest is good.
157 | P a g e
Yes I'm a team player I've been working in a team since last 7 years. My
family is my team so far, we all are working in our business like a team
everyone have his duties. If we don't work together we surely will fall
likewise an organisation will thrive only if people are working together as
a team after all an organisation is just like a family.
M entor Review :
As you have a family business you can take this line. But rehearse this
answer well or it would seem very cosmetic.
Q#28:-How do you define success? / What is the meaning of

success for you? / What would you want to achieve to consider
yourself successful?
Success according me is to be able to spend your life the way you want.
The meaning of success is different for everyone, for me it is more short
term based, as I look for success in small tasks that I do on a daily basis.
At present cracking this interview and getting shortlisted would mean
success to me.
M entor Review :
Good! Go ahead.
158 | P a g e
Success is directly related to our satisfaction. It means setting goals high
and accomplishing them without any regrets.
M entor Review :
Apart from theory you should have some tangibles too. Have some
recent or past successes ready as example where this happened.
For me success is something which makes me feel happy and satisfied.
Success makes me feel confident, optimistic and inspires me to do more.
After all the hard work, getting selected for this job will be a success.
M entor Review :
The term success is subjective in itself. It differs from man to man and
situation to situation. If a poor gets two time meal for his family he
considers himself as successful but there are some people who have
earned lots of money and power but they are demanding more to
consider themselves as successful.
For me, success is that when I get able to make understand someone
who is doing wrong but after my suggestion he started moving on right
path. If I get satisfied with my work then it is a success for me. Success
can't be counted but only can be felt.
M entor Review :
If you can deliver it well, then it’s a good answer. Rehearse this or else
you might not deliver it as effectively as you have worded.
159 | P a g e
Success is something by which one gets satisfaction in achieving that he
wants....
Human wants are not limited so there will not be any ultimate success....
For me success is to achieve the goals which will lead to my aim....
I will consider myself successful if I get selected as a Probationary Officer
in your esteemed organization.
M entor Review :
Philosophy and what you would consider success doesn't match in
narration. You are saying there is no limit to success then you go on and
say getting into SBI will be success enough for you. It just doesn't fit.
Reframe it. I think you want to say something like the below assertion in
your own words.
"As we progress in our life, yardstick of success changes. At this stage

when I am at the start of your career, starting my job as an PO in India's
biggest bank will count as success"- If yes reframe it on these lines.
Q#29:- How do you handle stress? / How do you behave under

pressure? / Can you give your best when put under stress? / Do
you feel like giving up at times when put under a tremendous
amount of pressure?
Stressful situations brings the best out of me. I tend to push myself
beyond the limits to achieve what I want. Like in the men’s single final of
our college annual sports meet, I was lagging behind my opponent by 10
points. Score was 11-1 in the final set. I was exhausted half way down
160 | P a g e
the line. But after a minute break when the play resumes somehow I
gather energy & positivity to come back & eventually beat him.
M entor Review :
Good one. Go ahead.
Good stress or eustress is beneficial to bring out the best in us. But when
things get out of control, I stay optimistic and react as per the demand
of the situation to seek maximum positive results. I never feel like giving
up if that task is important for me. I work harder to reach my goal,
irrespective how adverse the situation is.
M entor Review :
Good enough. Go ahead with this.
Sir, whenever I feel tensed or under stress, I take the help of music. I
either listen to any melodious songs or sing alone in my mind or with my
vocal depending upon the situation. But yes after doing this very exercise
everything seems refreshing to me as if nothing has happened. It helps
me to gain full confidence with a positiveness that yes I can definitely do
it and thus I try to give my best without ever thinking of giving up.
M entor Review :
What kind of music? Be ready with that. Content is fine. Also you can
divert, through your answer, in this question towards your hobbies (if it
hasn’t been touched till then).
161 | P a g e
Sir, A query: I listen to Bengali Songs and Hindi songs- what sort of
questions could be basically asked?
M entor Review :
There is no dearth of questions. It can be from anywhere. But what you
really need is to be able to tell about your preferences with a little bit of
specificity.
Eg: - In Bengali only we have so many varieties. Hindustani Classical,
Semi-Classicals (Tagore, Nazrul, Dwijedralal etc.), Modern Songs (Salil,
Hemanta, SD Burman etc.), Rock (Mohiner Ghoraguli, Bhoomi,
Chandrabindu etc.), Fusion & Pop (Suman, Nachiketa, Shilajit etc.),
Bhakti (Shyama Sangeet, Kirtan etc.) to name some.
Same is for Hindi. Hindi is not only Bollywood.
You can also go with Artistes or Composer if you are not very
comfortable with Genres.
I think pressure brings the best of us. I try to remain calm and composed
under pressure. Also, I don't feel like giving under a tremendous amount
of pressure. Instead, I take it as an opportunity where I can use my full
potential to get the desired result. If there is something which i don't
know how to do then I also seek for help but I never give up because
there is no problem which can't be solved. Being an engineering
graduate and head of various committees in the college I had worked
hard under the deadlines so think I can handle the pressure well.
M entor Review :
Good. Go ahead.
162 | P a g e
I think stress makes me work more efficiently; I take stress positively
and try to keep my calm. Under tremendous amount of pressure i keep
my motivation high with the help of my writing skills (quotes) and give
my best.
M entor Review :
You can say this but have examples ready for under tremendous amount
of pressure situation how writing helped you.
Yes I have handled pressure situation by thinking simply. I found that
any pressure situation mainly caused by two reasons, (i) complex
problems (including minimum resource availability) and (ii) high
requirements with shorter deadlines. To counter them, I prefer planning
a lot before actual action. I always maintain a schedule consisting of
small goals and try to achieve them one by one.
The best example I can provide is preparing for SBI PO alongwith my full
time IT job. I believe that pressure brings out the best of me as diamond
is made under tremendous pressure only.
M entor Review :
Good Enough. But deliver the "diamond" dialogue only if the interview's
tone allows it.
I always try to keep myself calm and relax in a stressful situation. I take
a deep breath when I am under pressure and cheer myself by thinking
that I can do it. In that situation, I also divide the target into small parts
163 | P a g e
and it brings the best outcome of mine. For example, in the semi-final
match of the inter block Cricket tournament of my locality my team was
lagging behind around 75 runs, which needed to be scored within 6
overs and 7 wickets gone. I took a deep breath at that situation and
along with the tail-enders able to take the match upto the last over and
won the match. I never give up in any stressful situation because I
believe it brings the best outcome of everyone.
M entor Review :
Good. Go ahead.
An education of engineering gave me many situations when I was under
stress and my job experience also gave me this. Under pressure of work
I use my cool mind and think like "it is just work and you can do it
easily" which boosts my energy to handle pressure and if still I am not
able to perform good under pressure, I take advice from good persons in
my life. Giving up under pressure is not my choice; every situation gives
an experience that is valuable.
M entor Review :
Good. Go ahead.
There are times when situation may get stressful and there is always the
pressure to give our best. In such a case, I feel that there is always inner
push which motivates me.
Yes, in hard situation I may feel like giving up but then i start thinking
why i have started it. Deep breath reduces stress for me and opens up
new ways to look situation in differently.
164 | P a g e
M entor Review :
Good. Go ahead.
Q#30:-What are you passionate about? / What motivates you?

/ What is your driving force in life?
I am passionate about the thing I want to achieve. I put all my efforts to
conquer that. I have reached this stage of giving my interview because
of my zeal only. Over 10 lakhs candidates applied for this post. Only 6k
made it to the interviews. So this shows my passion to conquer one of
the toughest banking exams and I am confident to making it through.
M entor Review :
Don't give this example.
I am passionate about learning and getting better with every day. I want
to grow with each passing day, better than what I am today. My
responsibilities towards my family and the people to whom I am entitled
to serve motivate me to do my best.
M entor Review :
You can go with this but rehearse it well. If you don't say it in the right
way it will not sound genuine.
165 | P a g e
I am passionate about my success. The goal which I set for myself to
achieve drives me each and every day to work harder than the last day.
It brings positivity. It makes me a keen learner and helps me in
improvising myself and bringing out the best in me.
M entor Review :
Cool. Go ahead.
I am a progressive person and try to improve myself in every possible
way. To do this, I try to learn from my mistakes as well as others and try
not to repeat that in future. I actually realised this during the course of
my competitive exam preparation.
M entor Review :
This would do but have example other than competitive exam prep.
I am passionate about learning new things and improving myself every
day so that I can contribute for the welfare of the society in a much
better way. My passion motivates me to associate myself with such an
organisation that helps me to bring out the best of my character and
skills which in turn would prove beneficial for the organization and
society as well. My passion acts as driving force in my life. With the help
of this driving force I am confident to fulfil my passion and balance
between my professional and personal life.
M entor Review :
Good. Freeze it.
166 | P a g e
I am passionate about being happy in life and living life joyfully. When
someone criticises me or praises me, I motivate myself to do my best
and try to achieve my goal. Never quit is the driving force of my life.
M entor Review :
Good. Go ahead.
I am passionate about learning from my surroundings. This makes me
add at least one good thing in my kitty everyday and make better version
of me. My parents are driving force for me. Whenever I feel low their
words clicks me: tu kar legi... Smile on their face brings enormous
energy in me.
M entor Review :
You can go ahead with this if you feel like it.
Sir, I am passionate about my success and happiness of my family. This
is the driving force in my life. A quote "whatever happens, happens
something good" motivates me when I miss any opportunity after my
hard work.
M entor Review :
This will do if you feel like it. But rehearse it.
167 | P a g e
Sir, I am passionate about learning new things. Irrespective of whether it
is a success or a failure, it would definitely teach us in becoming a better
individual. My self motivation is my driving force, that yes I can definitely
do it, let me just give it another try, and all these help me to sail through
every difficult situation.
M entor Review :
Good. Go ahead.
I feel passionate about becoming the best version of myself and helping
the needy so that their life can be changed. These things always drive
me to improve myself and to give my best to achieve new heights. So I
always wanted to be associated with the career where I can continuously
improve myself & I think in banking sector I will get lots of chances to be
the best version of myself and to work for the needy section of the
society.
M entor Review :
Good. Go ahead.
I feel passionate about my everyday planning. The goal which I have set
for myself to achieve drives me each and everyday to work harder than
last day. Achieving everyday goals gives satisfaction and inspiration for
the next day. It makes me a smart worker too.
168 | P a g e
M entor Review :
If it's true then say it because being passionate about "everyday
planning" seems to be too often a work. "Passion" is normally associated
with a medium-long term target. If you have used this because you are
not sure what to write- then change it. Go for something more specific.
Q#31:- How do you handle criticism? / What do people

generally criticize you about? / Do you agree with them? If yes,
what are you doing about it?
I take constructive criticism as a motivational fuel which helps me to
work even harder. However if someone criticises only to demotivate me
then I just ignore it.
M entor Review :
Cool. Short and Sweet. Go forward with it.
Constructive criticism is a great way to learn. I often talk to some people
who genuinely bring my mistakes to my notice and this helps me to learn
from them and improve myself. But i stay away from those who intends
to demotivate me
M entor Review :
Good. Freeze this. But be ready for questions like how would you
differentiate between constructive and destructive criticism?
169 | P a g e
I am open to people's ideas and suggestions, whether positive or
negative. Everyone has different opinions, which I respect. If the
intention behind criticism is good, I try to accept it as it helps me to
improve.
M entor Review :
Good. Go ahead.
Sir most of the time people criticize others to demotivate them and I
simply avoid it. But there are people who know you and criticize you for
good. Sometimes people criticize me for my weak immune system, I
started yoga and normal exercise for that...
M entor Review :
You can go ahead with this. But organize it better. Use me rather than
you.
I am open to listening to the criticism. If it’s a healthy criticism, I listen to
it, work on it and try to improve myself. But if the purpose of criticism is
merely to demotivate me, I ignore it completely. People generally
criticize me of being dependent on others for most of the work. I am
trying to break this thinking, and to some extent I have managed to
convince them that I can do things by myself.
M entor Review :
Refine this part, "People generally criticize me of being dependent on
others for most of the work. I am trying to break this thinking, and to
170 | P a g e
some extent I have managed to convince them that I can do things by
myself."
Q#32:- Do you lose your temper ever? / What makes you

angry? / Do you think it is a weakness? / When did you get
really angry last time?
Yes I lose my temper but it is rare. I react angrily only when I think this
is needed to control the situation. But I rarely get angry unconsciously.
Yes if you get angry on every other day then it is a weakness. I don't
remember when I expressed my anger to someone last time. Maybe in
my college days.
M entor Review :
Balanced answer- Go ahead.
Sir I don't like being angry and I don't get angry generally. The things
that really make me angry or sad are when people waste water and food
or hit animals - I just can't stand it. These are the things that make me
angry and I don't think it's a weakness. I think everyone should get
angry about these issues but in a polite way.
M entor Review :
Content is OK. But work on the presentation.
171 | P a g e
I used to lose temper during my teenage a lot. But gradually I have
learnt to control my anger. I don't abruptly react to the situation, rather I
try to analyse the situation calmly and react accordingly. No, I don't think
it is a weakness as it is an emotion which shows how a person feels.
M entor Review :
Till ‘accordingly’ OK, but then you say you don’t think it as a weakness-
then why would you change it? Be ready to answer that.
I am a really patient man and I take situation at hand in a well-educated
manner and focus my energy on solving the problem. Well, I do lose my
calm and get angry at times but I try to get back to normal as soon as
possible. No I don't think getting angry is a weakness. It’s a human trait
and everyone does. Though if I feel that I might have offended someone
I would immediately apologize for the same.
M entor Review :
Sir, generally I do not lose my temper. But there are some occasions like
smoking in front of others, abusing girls, eve-teasing news etc. really
makes me angry. No sir, I don’t think it’s a weakness of mine because
we all know smoking is injurious to health and it causes cancer. Passive
smoking is more dangerous because it harms other citizens with various
respiratory troubles. We all know men and women are two sides of a
same coin. Abusing, eve-teasing of women are social sin.
A few months back I was travelling in a local train, I noticed that a
172 | P a g e
couple along with a child is sitting and the father is smoking. I was really
angry with the father at that time.
M entor Review :
Good. Go ahead.
Q#33:- What are your views about work-life balance? / Would

you be willing to take your work home?
Work-life balance is essential for any person as it helps him/her in doing
the work with full vigor and at the same time he/she can spend time with
family which rejuvenates him further, so that when he/she comes to
work again he/she can do that with same energy and concentration.
I will not carry my work to home but if on some exceptional day I am
unable to do it at my office then I will try to update it at my home.
M entor Review :
Good. Go ahead.
I think there should be a perfect balance between private and
professional life. At any point of time they should not be mismatched. If
it takes an extra hour or two to get the work done we should complete it
first. It’s like giving 100‰ of our efforts at one place at a point of time.
M entor Review :
Fair enough. Freeze it.
173 | P a g e
I always go by a quote that says "We don't live to work but work to live."
I always live to the fullest, i.e. whenever I am at office I am fully
involved in office works only and try to finish all the work in office itself,
even stretch for a couple of hours if needed. But whenever I am at home
I totally become a family person. Because I believe, to work efficiently
one need inner peace which we can get only away from daily chores of
work life. I have maintained it well so far and looking forward to do the
same in coming days.
M entor Review :
Go ahead.
It might sound very cliché statement but sir money is not everything for
me. There is a reason why office hours are fixed. One must be smart and
dedicated enough to finish his task within office hours. Also, outside my
work cubicle, there is a house where a mother needs her daughter, a
child needs his mother, a husband needs a wife and most importantly,
my non-professional self needs time for herself.
Sir, I believe, to perform well at work, one must adhere to the art of
balancing professional as well as the personal life. If we try to mingle
these things in one another, neither will we be able to perform well in
professional life, nor will we be able to be happy in personal life.
Therefore, I would not take work home; instead, I would make sure that
the entire task is completed within office hours. However, if someday my
organization needs his employee to support it by staying at the office
after office hours because of the workload, I wouldn't shilly-shally about
it.
174 | P a g e
M entor Review :
The 1st para which essentially is theory- Whether you would be able to
share it or not depends upon how your interview is going till then. If it
had been an interview where the panel had preferred pointed answers,
just go on with the 2nd para.
If I solely focus on my work I will be disconnected from the people
society I love and care for. Although I will get success, yet there will be
no one to celebrate with. On the other hand if I solely focus on personal
life, I cannot do my office work with my full efficiency both cases I have
to suffer. So I have to maintain a balance between these two, so that I
can stay at the peak of my productivity at connected with the people I
love and care for.
M entor Review :
Q#34:- Suppose you get this job. If you are convinced that your
boss is not doing the right thing on some matter, what action
would you take?
First, I would put myself in his shoes and try to understand his/her views
behind his action, because being senior he has better ability to handle a
situation and not all wrongdoing should necessary be unethical.
Although if I find him doing something unethical, I would calmly
approach him with my point of views. I think I can convince him with
valid reasons. But if situation still not improved I have to escalate the
175 | P a g e
issue to higher management. Because as much as I respect his seniority,
I respect this esteem organisation even more which I can't let down.
M entor Review :
In ethical questions be direct; don't try to give a lot of rationalisation.
Whatever you will do state it. Remove understand his views etc.
(because the question is you are convinced he is not doing right). You
can ask him and see whether you misunderstood but that's it. Then state
your actions.
In this case I will approach him personally and will ask about it in very
polite manner to know that whether his step is right or wrong if he is
doing something wrong then I will politely ask him to refrain from it but
if he still continues to do that then I will report about this to my seniors
because it may result as loss for my organization's esteem.
M entor Review :
The question says that you already know that he is wrong. So this
answer would not do.
As I am convinced he is doing something wrong.... So in very polite
manner i will try to make him realise that what he has done can have the
consequences and can affect his image and bank reputation also.
M entor Review :
This is an incomplete answer. They may ask, what if he doesn't listen.
Then what would be your call? Be ready to respond to that.
176 | P a g e
Sir if I feel that he is wrong, then I will ask him personally regarding his
point of view, and then explain him the cons of his certain decision. I'm
sure I will convince him, but if he doesn't agree I will contact higher
authority regarding the same because at the end of the day it's all about
our organisation/bank so we have to take care of its value and image.
M entor Review :
Go ahead.
Sir, if it is regarding his decision related to some work which I thing is
not right I will personally try to talk to him and explain my views
regarding it. I will try to convince him that how his decision is not the
best for that particular scenario. If he still doesn't listen to it, I would
report it to the higher authorities.
M entor Review :
Go ahead.
Q#35:- Do you have any questions for us? / Would you want to
ask the panel something before you leave?
As a PO what role should I have to play and how can I make my
organization beneficial and prosperous. I had a great conversation with
you.
177 | P a g e
M entor Review :
Avoid such question. They would not like to give you a detailed answer
so avoid asking such questions
Sir a query, I have 2 questions in my mind- Which one can I ask?
After assessing me, please advise what are my areas of improvements?
Is there any feedback session arranged for various branch managers to
improve overall services?
M entor Review :
2nd one. Start it like. Sir it might be irrelevant but there was always a
query in mind that "is there......"
Thank you for the opportunity. I was curious why SBI doesn't have
online Chat option for customer service as visiting branch or reaching CC
through telephone is really time consuming. Will this be a good question
to ask?
M entor Review :
Make sure they don't have the online chat option before asking this
question. Also it isn’t a good choice as a question. You are a job aspirant
there, not a customer, and it would be more appropriate if the question
they are asking you to ask revolves around the curiosity a candidate is
expected to have about a new job. Not something seemingly trivial like
money, location, but something that sounds better.
178 | P a g e
As Arundhati Bhattacharya is one of my inspirations in banking industry
what qualities I must gather with passage of time to get success like her
in my banking career apart from hard work?
M entor Review :
Too general; would the panel be able to explain to you in detail the
answer to this question in that time period? NO right? They have so
many candidates to interview. Now why would you ask a question which
you know cannot be possibly answered at that point? Better to say "No
Sir Thank you" if you don't have anything better.
Thank you sir for giving me this chance. In the end I would like to say
only one thing that it was nice and memorable experience with you. I
wish to meet you again in future with my dream job. There is not any
question from my side which I can ask you. Thank you sir. Have a nice
day.
M entor Review :
Good! Freeze it.
*********End of Questions and Answ ers********
179 | P a g e
ANNEXURE-1
This is from where to start your interview preparation:-
We have done all the relevant things to help you in the last round
(INTERVIEW round) of Selection Process on our YouTube channel. We
are sharing with you the link of these Playlists. With each link, we have
given the approx length of the playlists and also a 2-liner of the purpose
that it would serve for you. You need to follow them in the order
suggested, with details of every playlist, to get the full benefit.
1. Personality Development Playlist (2.5 hrs):-
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y1i3afv7TQc&list=PLhuF3CfgKa3Zdq
tu8FSIEdJjN6vm2AJIK
This play list is the Starting Point. What and How of Communication,
Content Development, Group Discussions, Case Studies (situational
analysis), PI etc. are covered. The full playlist is of around 2.5 hrs. Don’t
just go through the lectures. Do the exercises suggested, alongside. With
exercise this playlist should take 2-3 days. The first draft of HAPI-G &
Flowchart should be ready by then.
2. SBI/IBPS Interview Playlist (9 hrs):-
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9xcrJ6uMtWE&list=PLhuF3CfgKa3bq
GNC4qGD4lX3Fzbr7eWiI
This playlist is a going-forward playlist from the last one. Once you have
done your own exercises, then you see how and where you can make it
more relevant to the task at hand. What are the other things you are
supposed to do apart from what you have done? You will also get to
watch 4 Mock interviews, to give you an idea about how things would be
out there.
3. SBI PO 2019 Interview Playlist (4 hrs):-
180 | P a g e
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zPY8831rc-
w&list=PLhuF3CfgKa3aYER3TR2wJZJuQPgarKRZe
In this playlist, we ourselves have enacted different scenarios in an

interview and showed how to tackle them. This would add on to the
learning of the previous 2 playlists as well as give you valuable inputs
regarding handling of interviews.
4. Banking Awareness Playlist (12 hrs):-
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rDVYYSo96Z0&list=PLhuF3CfgKa3Y
DSnu3gCuwXtjvUa3sUQvS
This is a playlist, as the name suggests, of Banking Awareness. This you

can start simultaneously with the Playlist 1. A lot of you have been
asking what to study and what not to regarding Banking Awareness. Just
go through this playlist. Start Right-away. 1 video a day from this
playlist, and within next 10 days, you will have an idea about almost all
relevant conceptual things related to banking, that you ought to know.
5. RBI-Grade B Playlist (11 lectures)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YY_k73hWOE4&list=PLhuF3CfgKa3Z
kzbIeL60zyK50eyO01gD0
In this playlist you need to do selective sessions (11 in no.) only. Also
this is an advanced playlist which is to be taken only when you have
manage-ably handled the other four. This playlist needs to be started in
the next 10 days. You can take a little extended time to complete it
though.
The sessions to go through are: - Economic and Social issues (Session-1

to 6) and Finance (Session 1-5)
Apart from these, we have compiled a PDF on generic interview

questions expected from Banking and Finance section. There are 8 pages
of these. Check these to see your level of preparedness. Find them in the
link given below.
181 | P a g e
List of Banking Related Interview Questions: -
https://www.facebook.com/download/preview/437808863407720
To discuss these questions with each other use the link given below:-
#RRBInterviews1:-
https://www.facebook.com/groups/meritshine/permalink/170837323585
0985/
182 | P a g e
ANNEXURE-2
We are sharing with you all the 35 links below. If you want to look at
more answers and reviews you will be able to navigate from here only.
#PIQ01:-
8023/
#PIQ02:-
4322/
#PIQ03:-
7308/
#PIQ04:-
0223/
#PIQ05:-
9887/
#PIQ06:-
9166/
#PIQ07:-
8359/
#PIQ08:-
4326/
183 | P a g e
#PIQ09:-
0358/
#PIQ10:-
5851/
#PIQ11:-
8311/
#PIQ12:-
1013/
#PIQ13:-
0007/
#PIQ14:-
6243/
#PIQ15:-
2598/
#PIQ16:-
1884/
#PIQ17:-
7529/
184 | P a g e
#PIQ18:-
3507/
#PIQ19:-
9542/
#PIQ20:-
9087/
#PIQ21:-
8819/
#PIQ22:-
8575/
#PIQ23:-
8622/
#PIQ24:-
4298/
#PIQ25:-
0615/
#PIQ26:-
8069/
185 | P a g e
#PIQ27:-
4577/
#PIQ28:-
7686/
#PIQ29:-
0647/
#PIQ30:-
7205/
#PIQ31:-
7050/
#PIQ32:-
6909/
#PIQ33:-
0134/
#PIQ34:-
2903/
#PIQ35:-
2312/
186 | P a g e

HR QnA & Feedback - Meritshine

Uploaded by

Document Information

Original Description:

Original Title

Copyright

Available Formats

Share this document

Share or Embed Document

Sharing Options

Did you find this document useful?

Is this content inappropriate?

Copyright:

Available Formats

HR QnA & Feedback - Meritshine

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

Dear Aspirant,

To aid you in your endeavour Meritshine is presenting you with this HR

This would give you an idea of different situations and different

W hat to do & w hat not to do before going through this PDF?

How to use this PDF?

W hat if you need m ore of this?

Q#1:- Tell me something about yourself./Please introduce yourself. (20

Q#3:- What is the meaning/significance of your name? / Have you ever

Q#5:- What is the significance of your date of birth? / Do you know of

Q#13:- What do you do in your free time? / What hobbies do you

Q#16:- What is your ambition in life? / What is your career ambition?/

Q#21:- We have interviewed so many amazing candidates here. You

Q#23:- What are the challenges of a working in a bank? Do you

Q#27:- Are you a team player? / Do you prefer working alone or in

Q#30:-What are you passionate about? / What motivates you? / What is

Q#31:- How do you handle criticism? / What do people generally criticize

1st is what you can do at this point? (like a robot's capabilities)

Also I'm a mechanical engineering graduate from Sinhgad academy of

To get more clues go through the Interview-1(HAPI-G) lecture once.

To get a step by step process go through the Interview basics lecture

Things to take care of:-

1. Don't make direct associations of your strengths and banking job.

2. Too much data without discussing their significance. Your exact

You should go through the Basic Interview lectures (HAPI-G and

My family consists of 4 members, my parents and one elder sister. My

In my free time I do blogging and watch Korean shows. Currently apart

My father is a retired library attendant and mother is a home maker. I

My father is a retired Automobile Engineer and my mother is a

2 things need to be taken care of:-

2. 'Myself XXX' is wrong grammar. Use I am XXX or My name is XXX

I completed my graduation in CS from GVC which is in my hometown

My hobbies are traveling and exploring places. Travelling has helped me

I also love adventurous sports like trekking, hiking, mountain biking.

Q#2:- Tell us something interesting about yourself. (OR) Tell us

2) Things that make me different from others: I do not believe in saving

3) Something that is not mentioned in my CV: I become too nervous

2. This is something that differentiates me.

3. Also I don’t know to swim – this is not there in my CV.

I have a little inclination towards Indian history. Whenever I get time I

My strength is my speech which I thought not to mention it on CV as it

Q#3:- What is the meaning/significance of your name? / Have

Q#4:- What is your native place? / What is your native place

From a banker’s perspective getting cash rich business into organised

Q#5:- What is the significance of your date of birth? / Do you

(Would this do Ratnabha Sir?)

(Abhishek Sir and Ratnabha Sir, is it necessary to mention birthdate and

Let me give you an example: - October is a month of festivals. Normally

Q#6:- Tell us something about your family. / How many siblings

In my latter family we are 7 members in family including our

In our family as my father and mother are not educated, I had to be

(Ratnabha Saha sir should I drop telling about my brother's occupation

4. Perks and allowances

5. Work culture and work life balance

6. Social Status and many more.

And I find all these in this bank.

Q#9:- Tell us about your educational background. / What did

(Query: - Ratnabha Sir, I had interest in my field so I am afraid that if I

(Query: - Ratnabha Sir, I am not getting the answer to question "were

For your query: Do a little rehearsal, you might automatically end up

(2) Sir, I wished to be a doctor from very beginning, decided to be a

Q#11:- Why is there a gap in your studies? Did you flunk? /

Q#13:- What do you do in your free time? / What hobbies do

*End of Questions and Answ ers