IBPS PO is the exam conducted by the Institute of Banking Personnel Selection for recruiting candidates for the post of probationary officers in public sector banks. It is a highly sought-after position since lakhs of candidates take the IBPS PO exams every year. The IBPS PO exam is conducted in three phases – the preliminary exam, the main exam, and the personal interview. 

After clearing the Preliminary exam and the Main exam, you’ve finally reached the last phase – the interview. It is a critical stage and is the make-or-break factor in the IBPS PO recruitment procedure. You are just one step from landing your dream job of becoming a probationary officer. Read ahead for some tips on how to crack the personal interview.

1. What are panellists looking for? – The first thing that candidates need to know to successfully crack the IBPS PO interview is what the panellists are looking for. If you have a good understanding of what criteria you are being judged on, you can prepare for your interview in that manner. The IBPS PO interview is to evaluate the communication skills, confidence, attitude, and sincerity of the candidate. Panellists want to see how clear and self-aware the candidate is. They will also consider how aware you are of the ongoings in India as well as globally.
2. Driving the interview – One of the best tips to crack the IBPS PO interview is to drive it in the direction you want it to. Generally, the first question is the ice breaker – “Tell us something about yourself.” Your answer to this question should include points that you want the panel to ask you questions on. So try to steer it towards topics or subjects that you are most comfortable in. For example, if Economics was your favourite subject during your undergraduate degree, mention this in your answer.
3. Knowing your resume/CV thoroughly – In the IBPS PO interview, you may be asked questions from your resume. Hence, all candidates need to know their CV or resume inside out. You might be asked questions based on your previous work experience, academics, internships, or volunteering experience. To tackle questions related to your work experience, be prepared with your job description and your role in your past organization. You must also be prepared with information on the industry or sector of your organization. If you are a fresher, you must be prepared with information on your college subjects.
4. Knowledge about the banking sector – Since you are interviewing for a position in a public sector bank, it is a must to know the banking sector. You should be prepared with information about the banks you are targeting. You should also know a fair amount of banking terminologies and be up-to-date with current affairs. Read newspapers such as The Hindu or The Economic Times daily, as these newspapers are more focused on banking and business sectors.
5. Communication skills – To crack the IBPS PO interview, your communication skills need to be excellent. You should have a good command of the English language and be able to convey your point clearly and concisely. To improve your verbal English, try to watch English news channels or shows. Practice speaking your interview answers with your friends or family members. You can also practice your answers in front of a mirror to observe your body language and how confident you appear.
6. Physical appearance – Apart from your resume and your past academics, how you present yourself is also important. You need to be well-dressed and be neat and clean. Wear ironed clothes including a formal shirt and trousers with formal shoes. Avoid using perfume or deodorant with a strong smell.
7. Body language – Your body language is also an important aspect if you want to crack the IBPS PO interview. Sit straight and lean to the front slightly to show that you are paying attention. Keep your hands on your lap and make eye contact. This shows that you are confident. Also, keep a light smile on your face. While explaining something, use your hands to make it more expressive. Sit in a simple position.
8. Strengths and weaknesses – Two common questions that are asked in an interview are your strengths and weaknesses. While talking about your strengths, try to frame your answer in a professional scenario such as talking about a problem you solved at your internship. While mentioning your weaknesses, also address what you are doing to improve them.
9. Mock interviews – You can practice for your IBPS PO interview by giving mock interviews. This can be with your mentors or friends. By taking mock interviews, you will get a fair idea of where you stand, what areas you need to work on, and how well you can communicate your answers and get your point across to the panellists.
10. Don’t bluff – It is never a good idea to lie or bluff with the panellists during the interview. If you don’t know the answer to a question, you should be honest about it instead of making up an answer. The panellists can see right through you. 
11. Be prepared with answers – Before your IBPS PO interview, look up the questions that are frequently asked and start preparing your answers to each of these questions. 
12. Think before speaking – Instead of jumping to answer the question, wait for a moment and think before answering. Candidates should never make any controversial statements on religion or politics. Avoid discussing personal issues during the interview.
13. Don’t be nervous – You might be nervous during your interview, as candidates often wonder “What if I am not able to crack my interview?” You need to be calm and poised during the interview. Fidgeting or shaking your legs are signs of nervousness. Panellists like candidates who are confident and composed while talking. Hence, avoid being nervous.

If you are a banking aspirant, follow these tips to crack the IBPS PO interview and find out everything about the IBPS PO exam with Oliveboard.