Niharika Bakshi wanted to do her PGDM from a reputed B School because she wanted to build a strong career. That’s the reason she joined VJIM, Hyderabad and it began her upward rise, which has led to her placement with Tech Mahindra as a Management Trainee. “I would say the preparation for placements began the day I joined the B School. All I did was grab the opportunities I was offered and started learning from each one of them,” she says enthusiastically.

Tip that did the trick for Personal Interview

The placement process for the reputed firm involved three stages. Niharika had done well in the first round of Aptitude, Reasoning, Verbal ability and Psychometric tests. “The second round was Group Discussion about a current topic – Uri attack. Right from day 1 at VJIM, we had inculcated the habit of reading ET. So I was aware of the news and mock GDs we had at the institute taught me the etiquette that came handy,” she explains.

Niharika sheds light on the crucial Personal Interview that was largely focused on her resume and SIP. She had done her homework about the company but given the stakes was bound to be nervous. “A day before the PI our faculty advised us to get good 8 hours sleep. That helped me stay energetic, reduce anxiety and have presence of mind during the interview. I am obsessed with Human Resources, so I think that passion showed too,” she explains.

Two year long prep

While the simple tip might have turned things in her favor, Niharika remains mindful of the fact that VJIM, Hyderabad offered her the best platforms for two years, including the SIP. “I did my internship in Mahindra and Mahindra Automotive and Farm Sector. Apart from learning and development, I was also involved with recruitment, which was a huge experience to have. Along with various initiatives at my B School, it helped mould me as a professional,” she claims.

Nikarika admits that in her initial days she couldn’t communicate in English during JAM sessions. But today her communication skills impressed her recruiters. “I think the mentoring sessions helped me get over my weaknesses. I was also a part of the placement committee that taught me multitasking. I was involved in many informal and formal events including the Business Conclave at the B School, which gave me required corporate experience,” she recounts.