By Rohan A.H. Noronha (Ex-XLRI), CEO/ Co Founder, Job CARR
A few years ago, while consulting with a top-tier MBA college in India, I met Sneha—a bright, hardworking student who had everything on paper: a stellar GPA, internships, and even a Six Sigma certification. Yet, she kept getting eliminated after the interview or group discussion rounds.
When I sat down with her, I realized the issue: Sneha spoke in bullet points, not in stories. There was no emotion, no journey—just facts. I asked her one simple question: “Tell me about a time when you truly failed and bounced back.”
What followed was a powerful narrative of how she led a failed college fest team in her undergrad, took accountability, restructured the team, and delivered an even bigger event the following year. That story became her anchor in interviews. The same Sneha who once struggled went on to crack a dream role with a multinational.
This is what I’ve learned in two decades of recruitment and training: Interviews aren’t interrogations—they’re conversations. And great conversations begin with storytelling.
Equally, in group discussions, I’ve seen candidates falter by trying to dominate. But hiring managers don’t just want volume—they want value. Candidates who listen, respond thoughtfully, and build consensus often stand out more than the loudest voice in the room.
To all MBA students—whether you’re freshers or lateral entrants—remember: your story matters. Don’t just prepare answers. Prepare moments that show your growth, grit, and grace. The job offer isn’t just for the most qualified—it’s for the most real.
At Job CARR, we help you discover and deliver that story—with purpose.
