Here are some interview questions you might find useful.
I have 3+ yrs of Work Experience primarily in Java/J2EE, Oracle Applications, and Oracle Applications Framework.
So, people with > or < experience that me can expect an increase or decrease in the standard of the questions you might end up getting.
===============
CURRENT PROJECT
===============
1. Explain Business Requirement/Domain Need to which the product caters to.
2. Explain Architecture of the application.
3. Roles and Responsibilities in current project.
4. Participated in which all stages of the SDLC.
5. Which Software Development Model is used for the project. What is the business need to use this model.
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PL/SQL
======
1. Exception Handling.
2. Collection Objects.
3. Cursors.
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SQL TUNING
==========
1. Need for hints.
2. Name a couple of hints.
3. Performance implication of IN clause.
4. Advantages of IN v/s EXISTS.
5. Maximum number of parameters IN clause can take.
6. How does SQL Engine work.
7. Explain Plan - How is it calculated/decided.
8. When to go for denormalization/normalization of tables.
9. How to read a trace file.
10. Is full table scan always a bad thing.
11. When does an Index degrade performance.
12. What are the different types of indexes, and when and where should they be used.
13. Does using a hint ensure that the SQL Engine will follow the instruction specified in the hint.
===
SQL
===
1. How to lock a row in the table without performing an update command.
2. What is Outer Joint.
3. How to get the 3rd highest value of an attribute in a table.
4. Design criteria for deciding what all attributes will go into a table, and number of tables needed.
5. WHO Columns - What is the business need for such columns in a table.
6. Do you use index on String fields on a table. If yes - what is the performance implication of the same.
7. How do you partition data/tables to ensure maximum performance, especially when tables have 10's of millions of rows of data.
8. How can you do clustering of a D/B.
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JAVA
====
1. OOPS Concepts.
2. Difference between Abstract Class and Interface.
3. Why doest object class contain methods like wait(), waitFor(), notify(), notifyAll().
4. Why should all classes extend Object.
5. If Class A extends B, then how does A extend Object - since one class can only extend one class.
6. How can you load/unload a class which has been loaded by the JVM.
7. How to write Custom Classloaders.
8. What are the different interfaces in Collections.
9. Linked List - What is the advantage of using it in Java.
10. What is the significance of having a datastructure like linked list.
11. Performance of Linked List v/s ArrayList.
12. Difference between ArrayList and Vector. Which and Why and Where would you use these collection objects.
13. If you had to add 1 million objects to a particular collection object, which collection objection would you use and why.
14. Feature differences/advancements in Java 1.6 v/s 1.5 v/s 1.4
15. Usage of Iterators.
16. Garbage collection.
17. What are the different ways in which the JVM decides which objects are ready for Garbage Collection.
18. Why is a method like System.gc() given - when there is no assurance of the GC being called.
19. Give a practical need/use of overloading the finalize() method.
20. When and Why does a programmer have to do a System.gc().
21. Why doesn't Java give programmers the privilege to overload operators.
22. WHY is String considered a special object. Why is this privelege not extended to other classes.
23. String is an immutable object. Why so.
24. Difference between String and StringBuffer.
25. When is String more performant and useful than a StringBuffer.
26. Why is the entry point of an class which needs to be run from a console - public static void main(String args[])
27. How to write native methods in Java. Is it advisable to do so.
28. Explain what CORBA stands for and the need for the same.
29. Difference between Checked and Unchecked Exceptions.
30. Explain the design condition when would you decide that your method would throw a Checked Exception or an UnCheckedException.
Also, give a real-time example to support your answer.
31. Multi-Threaded Applications - What is your exposure to them.
32. How is exception handling done in Java.
33. What is the business need to have exception handling in Java.
34. Why do we need the finally block.
35. If an application encounters an Error or an Unchecked Exception - does it crash. If not - is it a good idea to continue running it.
36. Have you encountered and Errors, if yes - name them.
====
JDBC
====
1. Types of drivers available.
2. Which is the most performant driver and why.
3. Under which scenarios would and should one use each of the 4 types of drivers.
4. Different Steps involved in JDBC, from start to end, to fire an SQL query and get a resultset.
5. Where would you write the conn.close() - in the method or in a finally block. What is the advantage of doing so.
6. Connection Pooling concepts.
7. Explain what are the standard methods one would need in a ConnectionPool class.
8. Differences between JDBC 1.0 and JDBC 2.0
9. Difference between Datasource and ResultSet.
10. Scrollable Resultset - What is the advantage of such resultsets. When do we need to use such a resultset.
11. How to create a scrollable resultset.
12. Why do we need a Datasource when in the code we can make the URI being referred point to Collection Pool directly,
as a Datasoruce indirectly points to a Collection Pool anyways.
13. If ResultSet/Connection/Statement etc are Interfaces - who gives the implementation of these interfaces.
14. If you were to write your own Driver API - which class would you need to give and implementation of.
15. How to achieve Batch Update.
16. Difference between - execute(), executeQuery(), executeUpdate().
17. Difference between - Statement and PreparedStatement.
18. What is a PreparedStatement Cache.
19. In PreparedStatement - where is the explain plan cached - D/B, Application Server, JVM, Application, Heap Memory.
20. What happens when you fire an "Update ...." command in the executeQuery().
21. What happens when you fire an "Update ...." command in the executeQuery() and zero lines are updated.
22. How do you get SQL Warnings. Name other approaches besides using the getSQLWarnings() method.
23. Which approach is better - firing SQL from Java layer, or invoking a PL/SQL procedure to do the same. Explain.
====
J2EE
====
1. Difference between JSP forward and sendRedirect
2. Implicit Objects in JSP.
3. Session Tracking - Different Methods Used.
4. If cookies are not allowed by the client web browser - does any of the other session tracking methods work effectively.
(Hint - most of the other methods of session tracking internally depend on usage of cookies)
5. How to set a cookie and get cookies from a browser.
6. Explain MVC architecture.
7. Difference between MVC 1 and MVC 2 architectures.
8. What are the latest developments in J2EE.
9. Do you prefer JSP or Servlets. Give real-times examples of when Servlet is more useful than a JSP.
10. Servlet Life Cycle.
11. JSP Life Cycle. How is it different from a Servlet Life Cycle.
12. Difference between Static Include and Dynamic Include.
13. JSF - Have you used it.
14. How do you write custom jsp tags. Have you had to write custom tags in your career
15. Struts - Are you aware of the basic architecture. If yes - Explain it.
16. What are the different Back End Persistance Technologies that are "hot" in the market now. Have you used any of them.
17. How to tune a Web Application.
18. Explain the approach you would follow to identify in which layer the performance is poor and how would you fix this such
that minimal application down time is required.
19. Have you used eclipse plugins like JUnit and JMeter.
20. How to make an application run on a Single Thread Model. What would be the pressing business need to support such a requirement.
21. How to handle the challenge of Different Browsers interpreting HTML Tags in different ways, and also the need to give a rich UI.
22. Difference between GET and POST methods.
23. Max value of URL Length in GET protocol.
24. If I need a servlet to handle a protocol like GOPHER - how would I go about doing it.
25. Describe the Inheritance Architecture of the HTTPServlet.
26. Differences between the HTTPServlet and GenericServlet.
27. How does an HTTPServlet identify an incoming request as an HTTP request.
28. Explain how you would write a proxy server to intercept HTTP requests, process the request and send the output to the user.
29. Servlet Chaining - Why do we need this. How is it achieved.
30. Servlet Filters. Explain the need for the same. How to use it.
==========
WEB SERVER
==========
1. How to achieve clustering.
2. What are the different services that a Web Server provides that your application uses/needs.
3. Web Server Turning - Any exposure
Tuesday, April 22, 2008
Job Hunting!!!
Off late, things haven't been looking all that great in my team. People are leaving faster than you can say "Juranimoooooo", and this is really beginning to worry me.
Add to this the that the fact that workloads are spiking astronomically and pay hikes seem a loooooooooooooooong way away - and we have the perfect stage for people to start thinking of "migrating to better seasons"
As a result, to be on the safer side, I started interviewing with a few companies - just in case things go from bad to worse out here.
I haven't gotten any offers so far, partly because I haven't done any proper preparations for my
interviews, and partly because I still nurture a hope that things will get better here and I might not have to leave Oracle after all.
A couple of things I realized are as follows:
1. When you mention you are from Oracle, the expectations automatically soar. The interviewers expect you to be some sort of a rocket scientist and the nature and level of questions automatically goes from tough to impossible-to-answer.
2. Oracle Brand Name Rocks!!! It gives you a loooooooooot of leveraging power!!!
3. Markets are not as bad as analysts and newspapers claim.
4. If you can convince the interviewer that you are very smart and tech savvy - the company is ready to pay you whatever number you are quoting (when I mentioned I was expecting 9.5 laks per annum and I was not negotiable on that figure - they simply agreed to pay me that much)
5. Working in a product company and trying to move to a service company is a challenge - for two major reasons:
.a. Service Companies can't afford you.
.b. Working in a Product company makes you an authority on all aspects of a product. But, service companies need people who are authorities on Technologies - not products!
6. Trying to make a switch from Technology into something like Pre-Sales or Consulting is not easy - especially if you're not already doing something like that in your current organiztion.
Anyways ... I better start preparing harder and try to read up on the latest fads in the market. That way - I think - my chances of bagging an offer will increase.
So ... Wish me luck!!!
Add to this the that the fact that workloads are spiking astronomically and pay hikes seem a loooooooooooooooong way away - and we have the perfect stage for people to start thinking of "migrating to better seasons"
As a result, to be on the safer side, I started interviewing with a few companies - just in case things go from bad to worse out here.
I haven't gotten any offers so far, partly because I haven't done any proper preparations for my
interviews, and partly because I still nurture a hope that things will get better here and I might not have to leave Oracle after all.
A couple of things I realized are as follows:
1. When you mention you are from Oracle, the expectations automatically soar. The interviewers expect you to be some sort of a rocket scientist and the nature and level of questions automatically goes from tough to impossible-to-answer.
2. Oracle Brand Name Rocks!!! It gives you a loooooooooot of leveraging power!!!
3. Markets are not as bad as analysts and newspapers claim.
4. If you can convince the interviewer that you are very smart and tech savvy - the company is ready to pay you whatever number you are quoting (when I mentioned I was expecting 9.5 laks per annum and I was not negotiable on that figure - they simply agreed to pay me that much)
5. Working in a product company and trying to move to a service company is a challenge - for two major reasons:
.a. Service Companies can't afford you.
.b. Working in a Product company makes you an authority on all aspects of a product. But, service companies need people who are authorities on Technologies - not products!
6. Trying to make a switch from Technology into something like Pre-Sales or Consulting is not easy - especially if you're not already doing something like that in your current organiztion.
Anyways ... I better start preparing harder and try to read up on the latest fads in the market. That way - I think - my chances of bagging an offer will increase.
So ... Wish me luck!!!
Monday, April 21, 2008
What's The Difference Between Flirting and Being Very Friendly
"Is she flirting with me? Or is she just being very friendly?" This is a confusing question that most guys go through when interacting with females.
The correct answer - will steer you away from trouble or (if you're lucky i.e.) maybe even get you laid!!!
But, the wrong answer - most definitely spells TROUBLE!!!
I spoke to my friend and "Agony Aunt" - as she prefers to call it - Pallavi about this the other day, and she too did not have any clear cut formulae that I could use to identify which is which. But, she was kind enough to point out a few tell-tale signs that could be indicators of flirting. They are:
.1. One-too-many flirtatious touches
.2. Hugging for no valid/major reason
.3. Good-Bye/Good-Night Kisses
So, guys, if you've been getting a lot of hugs and kisses from any of your female counterparts (off late i.e.) - I think it'd be a good idea to try pushing it up a notch and giving her a soft kiss on the lips next time she comes really close to you.
[At least that's what Pallavi suggested. So, if things don't go as planned (read as you get slapped and kicked in the balls) - blame her, not me!!!]
The correct answer - will steer you away from trouble or (if you're lucky i.e.) maybe even get you laid!!!
But, the wrong answer - most definitely spells TROUBLE!!!
I spoke to my friend and "Agony Aunt" - as she prefers to call it - Pallavi about this the other day, and she too did not have any clear cut formulae that I could use to identify which is which. But, she was kind enough to point out a few tell-tale signs that could be indicators of flirting. They are:
.1. One-too-many flirtatious touches
.2. Hugging for no valid/major reason
.3. Good-Bye/Good-Night Kisses
So, guys, if you've been getting a lot of hugs and kisses from any of your female counterparts (off late i.e.) - I think it'd be a good idea to try pushing it up a notch and giving her a soft kiss on the lips next time she comes really close to you.
[At least that's what Pallavi suggested. So, if things don't go as planned (read as you get slapped and kicked in the balls) - blame her, not me!!!]
How not to attend a B-School Interview - My PGSEM Interview
My PGSEM interview on Friday (11-April-2008) was by far one of the most humbling experiences in my life. Till date, I have an 95% conversion rate for whichever interviews I have attended (i.e. 95% of the time I get the post/job which I am interviewing for).
But, the MBA interview is quite a different deal in itself. This - I realized the hard way!!!
Anyways ... Lets move straight into the story!!!
I was scheduled to have my interview at 2.30 pm. To avoid any delays due to traffic, I started early and got there at 2.00 pm itself. Quite a feat considering that 90% of the times, for a job interview, I end up reaching the would-be-employers-office late!
I somehow managed to hunt down the location of the classroom where I am supposed to report for my interview - only to find that my interview panel was in-charge of interviewing candidates for the FPM program as well, and ergo, my interview would have to wait till 3.30 pm. Since, I had no choice but to wait - I did just that.
In the meanwhile, I found a few other "candidates" who had come for the interview. To kill some time, I made small talk with them, and in the process learnt a couple of questions that their panel members were asking the candidates. These were basic questions like
.A. Strengths and Weaknesses.
.B. Achievements in Career and Personal Life
.C. Are you an entrepreneur material. Describe with examples.
.D. Roles and Responsibilities in current projects.
"No Sweat!!! I've already got rehearsed answers for those questions!" was what was going through my mind. And yes, I had spent the previous night working on "convincing" answers for these common B-School questions.
At around 3.15, I saw a lady standing in front of CPP Room # 5. Since I was scheduled to have my interview there, I rush over to meet her.
Lady: "Sharath Kumar?"
Me: "Yes Ma'am ... Thats me!"
Lady: "Please get into this room. We will start your interview shortly!"
Me: "Thanks ..."
I didn't figure that she would be the interviewer. She was in her mid to late twenties max. No way she was a professor here at IIM. But, as luck would have it - it turns out that she was one of my interviewers.
The other interview also turned out to be a lady - a really cute and young one at that!
She was so damn pretty that I had an instant crush on her!!!
;)
As soon as I enter the room, I knew the sane thing to do was to wish the interviewers "Good Afternoon". But, smitten by her beauty, I ended up saying "Hey ... Hi!!!"
For the sake of convenience, let me call the two ladies - L1 and L2; L1 being the person who asked me to get into the room, and L2 the cute pretty lil darling!
L1: "So ... You're coming from office is it?"
Me: "No Ma'am. I am coming from home. I took the day off."
The second I told her this, she looks at my shoes and then gives me a rotten look.
Let me take a moment here to describe my attire:
I was wearing a yellow checked shirt, black trousers, no tie, and a sneakers. Yes ... you read it right - a sneakers. To justify myself - I don't own a pair of formal shoes. And although - the sane thing would've been to buy one - I didn't think it was "worth it" to blow so much money on a pair of leather formal shoes - since I would be wearing it only this once.
Now, you know why she was giving me that rotten look. It's only when I saw her reaction - that I realized how important a formal attire was when attending a B-School Interview.
Anyways ... Moving right along ...
L1, and L2 settle down in their chairs. I am still waiting for an invitation to take my seat. L2 realizes that and asks me to take a seat.
Let me take another minute of your time to describe the seating arrangement in the room:
Basically, we were in some sort of a meeting room. So, there was this huge circular table with chairs strewn all over the place.
Now, back to the story ...
I observe that there is a seat right next to L2, and make a dash for it. I almost sat down on this chair when L1 points at a chair on the opposite side of the table and instructs me to sit in that chair.
Half heartedly, I obey her instructions.
L1 and L2 are busily leafing through my SOP. A minute later, L1 drops the SOP on the table and looks at me.
L1: "If I were to give you 3 minutes to tell me about you, what would you say. And since I have already read your SOP, I don't want to listen to anything you've written in there. So, tell me only stuff that's not there!!!"
This caught me unawares. I had rehearsed and re-rehearsed what I would say if I were asked this question. But, most of the stuff I had prepared for my "speech" was already there in my SOP. I was begining to go into a phase of Psychological Blackout. Trying to maintain my cool, I did some thinking and came up with an answer.
Me: "Basically, I am a very fun loving, jovial person. Also, I am very committed and dedicated to the tasks at hand. This is what you need to know about me that is not there in my SOP."
That's it. Seriously ... All I could cook up was this.
The ladies were giving me a "go on kiddo ... go on ..." look, but I looked back at them as if I had just spoken for hours and there was nothing more to say.
L1 looked pissed, but L2 felt sorry for me. She, I'm guessing, thought I was tensed at hell and decided to give me another chance.
L2: "So ... You mentioned fun-loving. What all do you do for fun?"
Me: "Well ... It depends ... On my mood and the resources I have at my disposal."
L2: "Music?"
Me: "Yeah ... I love music a lot."
L2: "What sort of music do you listen to most?"
Me: "Well ... I'm not sure whether you've heard of a genre called - Techno/Trance/Electronic?"
L2: (With an mischevious look) "Of course ... We're not that old Sharath!"
Me: "Sorry ... I didn't mean that. I just didn't think stuff like that 'sells' at places like this."
L2: (With a laugh) "No issues ... What else do you do - Books?"
Me: "Yes ... I do read a lot of books as well."
L2: "What sort of books do you prefer?"
Me: "I read all types of books. But, I like reading humor the most. As a matter of fact, I am reading this book called 'Snap Shots From Hell' by Peter Robinson. It's a very hilarious book.'
L2: "Hmmmmmmm ... I haven't heard about the author or the book. What's it about?"
I saw this as a chance to impress the interviewers and decided to talk at length about the book.
Me: "Its basically about the author's experiences while he was pursuing a MBA from Stanford. It talks about the woes of student from a non-financial/non-techie background. Also, it takes a dig at the MBA education system and how it breaks the students before moulding them. I short - Its fully loaded with satire about the MBA System."
When I stopped, L1 was giving me a schmuck look and L2 was not smiling her 70 mm smile anymore.
L1: "So basically, you like to laugh at the MBA and Education System eh?"
Its when she made this statement that I realized my folly. I knew anything I say wouldn't help me. So, I decided to smile back at them and keep quiet instead of trying to defend myself.
L2: "Hmmmmm ... So besides this. What else do you read thats humour?"
Me: "I just adore the Dilbert series by Scott Adams. Its one of my all time favourites."
L1: "But that's a cartoon strip, not a book."
Me: (Slightly Irritated with L1) "So what? It's still very funny and I like reading it!"
L1 looked slightly offended by my statement, but it also served as a clear indicator for her to back off.
L2: "Who is your favorite character in the series?"
Me: "Dilbert obviously!"
L2: "Why's that Sharath."
Me: "Basically, Dilbert is an engineer and he keeps taking a dig at management and their fallacies. As an engineer myself, I identify with him."
Yet again, L1 was giving me a schmuck look. L2 looked amused though.
L2: "And you are here to become a manager?"
Me: (With a laugh) "Well, real life is very different from a book."
L2: "So ... Besides this, what all do you do?"
Me: "I am into blogging."
L2: "Oh is it? Where do you blog?"
Me: "I write on www.blogspot.com"
L2: "Just one blog site?"
Me: "I explored other sites like www.ibibo.com, etc. But, I preferred the UI and features that blogspot gives me, and so I stick to one site."
L1: "What do you generally write about?"
Me: "I write about pretty much anything that happens in my life. You can expect to see my blog about this interview there in a bit."
L2: (Smiling) "Do you read any blogs?"
Me: "Yes ofcourse. I read blogs at a site called www.wokaylah.com. It's a web portal maintained by one of my seniors from college. A lot of good bloggers write there, and it makes for a fun read."
Since, I had made blunder after blunder, I decided to play on their feminist side to gain a few brownie points so that they wouldn't kick me out right away.
Me: "Also, I read a blog called 'What Women Want'."
L2: (Very Curious by now) "What's that about?"
Me: (Thinking - "The trick had worked") "It's basically an in-your-face blog maintained by a lady. It talks very openly about what women want in life, career, relationships and marriage. It definitely makes a fine read."
L1 and L2 were finally smiling together. Yaaaaaaaaaaay!!!
Me: "Besides this, I am also in the process of writing my first book."
L1: "Wow ... That's nice to hear! What genre?"
Me: "Its fiction. It talks about the life of a graduate - like me - from a good college and his dreams of a high flying career in the IT sector."
L2: "What stage of the book are you in right now?"
Me: "I'd say about 50%. I'm basically going through a writers block right now. Need to somehow maintain the humor and satire element and stray away from becoming overtly emotional per se."
L1: "Why on this topic?"
Me: "Well ... Basically, since I am an engineer who say dreams of a high flying career in this industry - I can identify easily with the protagonist in the story. Besides, with more than a million engineers in India - I am sure a lot of people will identify with this book, and hopefully - It will be a 'Best Seller'".
L1 and L2: (Smiling) "All the best with that."
Me: "Thanks."
At this point, I was hopeful that I could turn the interview to my advantage. But, that was not to be. Because, the very next second - Lighting Struck!
L1: "So ... Do you read the newspapers? What's the headlines today?"
To be honest, I haven't read a newspaper in a very loooooooooooooong while. To be more exact - 7.5 years. I read an odd article or two. But, nothing more than that.
So, I had two options:
1. Lie that I do read the newspaper.
2. Tell them the fact that I don't.
The problem with lying was the fact that they would catch me red handed - Because surely, when they asked me questions like - "What are the headlines today/yesterday/day-before, etc, I wouldn't be able to answer them. And that would clearly shatter my credibility per se.
So, I decided to go the safer route. In other words - Tell them the truth - that I don't read the newspapers.
Me: "I don't read the newspapers."
L1: "Oh ... you must be a very busy man. What about the news on TV?"
Me: "Well ... I don't have a TV at home!"
When I said this, L1 and L2 together looked at me in a totally shell shocked manner.
I bet they would've been thinking - "Even people in the remotest of villages have TV's. And you're staying in the most happenings high-tech city in India - and you don't have a TV?"
L1: "What about the internet?"
Me: (Slightly annoyed by her insistent prodding) "I don't follow the news. PERIOD!"
L1: (In a slightly annoyed tone) "So basically you're telling me that if I ask you about current affairs, international news, economy, politics, etc - you won't be in a position to answer?"
Me: (Nonchalantly) "Yup ..."
At this statement, L1 just gave up and fell back into her chair. L2 too didn't seem very impressed with my answer, but at least - she was still smiling (or at least trying to!).
By this time I realized that the interview had spoiled beyond recognition, and that my chances of getting an admit call was more remote than Milking A Rooster! So, I decided to have some fun myself.
Although L1 has given up on me, L2, I guess, wanted to give me a chance. I prefer to think of it as - she has a crush on me too, but I know that's just wishful thinking!
:D
L2: "You've mentioned in your SOP that the PGSEM class will benefit by your innovative ideas. Can you suggest one innovative idea that you would bring into class?"
Me: (Slightly nervous) "Wow ... That's a question I didn't anticipate ... Can you give me a minute to think?"
L2: "Sure ... Take all the time you need!"
Me: (After about a minute) "As per my understanding, you break the class into different groups to analyze case studies, etc. Right?"
L2: "Yes ..."
Me: "I also presume, that since this is part time course, no one is truly aware of the other persons skills and network per se."
L2: "Possibly yes ..."
Me: "I strongly believe in the power of social networking. And since MBA is all about business per se, I would try to bring in some sort of forum which would help the participants leverage the skills - both personal and their network - of every other participant in the class. You never know when someone you know could be useful. And more importantly - your classmate could be the one who could get you that multi-million dollar contract."
L2 seemed to be impressed with the idea.
L2: "Also, you've written about trying to achieve a work-life balance. Assuming that you reach a position in your organization where you can frame policies, what would you do to ensure that your employees also achieve a work-life balance?"
Me: "Well Ma'am. Firstly, I would try to incorporate Google's '1-day-for-your-own-ideas' policy. I believe, this is a way of clearly telling the employees that 'We Care About Your Needs'. Besides this, I would get the HR folks at each of the locations to conduct a lot of competition that would serve as a platform for the employees to showcase their talent. Additionally, I am aware that a lot of people want to learn new things like - Salsa, Public Speaking, Yoga, etc. But, due to a multitude of reasons, ranging from being shy to not having time because of workload, they are not able to pursue it. So, I would try to conduct workshops at office where people can pursue their interests."
L2: "Nice to see that you've got a lot of ideas ..."
Me: (Smiling) "Thanks Ma'am."
L2 takes a minute to read my SOP again.
L2: "You've written about wanting to do something for the blind. What's that all about?"
Me: "First of all, let me make one thing very clear. My idea of charity is not giving 100 rupees to a blind person because he/she needs the money more than me. I personally just can't buy the idea of giving away money when I haven't achieved all I need to with it. My idea of charity is giving away to people when I have in surplus. And that too by giving away - I don't mean giving away free. Its more like - I help them by giving them a tool or a skill which can help them in making a living."
L1 seemed offended by my statement. My guess is - her idea of charity is very different from mine.
Me: "Basically, I want to give them some sort of a vocational training which would help them earn a decent living. I understand most of the blind people make a living by making bags or chairs. The revenue they earn hardly helps them meet their day-to-day needs. What I want to do is something on the lines of starting a factory, or a business, where I can provide them a safe and conducive environment to work. Also, this would help them by giving them a job where they can fetch a daily wage and thereby lead a much better and economically better off life."
L2: "Hmmmmmm ... Ok!"
L1 who was silent till now, decides to step in and take a stab at me - AGAIN!
L1: "See Sharath ... I see you have a full life, and we're happy for you for that. But, we are looking for people who are very interested in what the Indian economy is like, what are the issues that affect the markets, international implications of the global cues and factors, etc. This course basically helps such people to go to the next level in their organizations by giving them an understanding of business and how best to run it. I am not sure you are interested in all that. Are you?"
I realized what the outcome of the interview was going to be with just that one statement she made. But, sure as hell, I wasn't going down without a fight.
Me: "Well Madam. The reason I am not very aware of these facts is because they don't really play a key role in what is the occurring in my life right now. But, like you mentioned, if these are key things which are required for me to be an effective manager - I don't see any reason why I can't pick them up. As a matter of fact, there are a lot of things besides technology that I have picked up as and when the need arose. For example, I am working on a ticketing solution which I am looking forward to sell. Technology wise, I am very familiar with how to build it. But, I learned the nuances of product feature specifications etc by reading a book on marketing. I did a market survey on the target audience to understand how successful my product would be. I did an analysis on existing market players and came up with features that would differentiate me from them. I also came up with an excellent revenue model for my product. These are things I learnt on my own because the need arose. So, like I said earlier, if the need arises, I don't see any reason why I can't pick up a newspaper reading habb\it and an interest in international affair or politics."
L2: "Hmmmmm ... Ok ..."
L2: "What do you think are the 3 major fallbacks in an entrepreneur
Me: "Arrogance ... Poor Money Management ... I don't know about the third."
L1: "What?"
Me: "Arrogance ... Poor Money Management ... And I'm sorry - I can't think of a third one!"
L2: What about strengths?"
Me: "Confidence ... Optimism ... and a Supportive Nature"
L2: "Could you please explain what you meant."
Me: "Without Confidence - there is no such thing as an Entrepreneur. By Supportive Nature I mean he should not be selfish and try to achieve only his goals, but he should also be sensitive to needs and goals of his team and the people trying to rally his cause. And Optimism - That is the most important strength. If you loose a contract, you should have the optimism to believe that another contract is around the corner and not cry or give."
L1 and L2: (Nodding their heads in a very appreciative manner) "That very true ... Well said Sharath!"
With this my interview came to an abrupt stop.
They asked me to ask anyone waiting outside to wait until called for. But, since no one was waiting outside, I took my leave and headed back home.
On the whole - It was a very very different experience. My performance was dismal to the core, but I learnt a loooooooooot of things and I am sure I can use this experience to my advantage next time around.
Anyways - For Now It's - Bye Bye PGSEM @IIMB!!!
But, the MBA interview is quite a different deal in itself. This - I realized the hard way!!!
Anyways ... Lets move straight into the story!!!
I was scheduled to have my interview at 2.30 pm. To avoid any delays due to traffic, I started early and got there at 2.00 pm itself. Quite a feat considering that 90% of the times, for a job interview, I end up reaching the would-be-employers-office late!
I somehow managed to hunt down the location of the classroom where I am supposed to report for my interview - only to find that my interview panel was in-charge of interviewing candidates for the FPM program as well, and ergo, my interview would have to wait till 3.30 pm. Since, I had no choice but to wait - I did just that.
In the meanwhile, I found a few other "candidates" who had come for the interview. To kill some time, I made small talk with them, and in the process learnt a couple of questions that their panel members were asking the candidates. These were basic questions like
.A. Strengths and Weaknesses.
.B. Achievements in Career and Personal Life
.C. Are you an entrepreneur material. Describe with examples.
.D. Roles and Responsibilities in current projects.
"No Sweat!!! I've already got rehearsed answers for those questions!" was what was going through my mind. And yes, I had spent the previous night working on "convincing" answers for these common B-School questions.
At around 3.15, I saw a lady standing in front of CPP Room # 5. Since I was scheduled to have my interview there, I rush over to meet her.
Lady: "Sharath Kumar?"
Me: "Yes Ma'am ... Thats me!"
Lady: "Please get into this room. We will start your interview shortly!"
Me: "Thanks ..."
I didn't figure that she would be the interviewer. She was in her mid to late twenties max. No way she was a professor here at IIM. But, as luck would have it - it turns out that she was one of my interviewers.
The other interview also turned out to be a lady - a really cute and young one at that!
She was so damn pretty that I had an instant crush on her!!!
;)
As soon as I enter the room, I knew the sane thing to do was to wish the interviewers "Good Afternoon". But, smitten by her beauty, I ended up saying "Hey ... Hi!!!"
For the sake of convenience, let me call the two ladies - L1 and L2; L1 being the person who asked me to get into the room, and L2 the cute pretty lil darling!
L1: "So ... You're coming from office is it?"
Me: "No Ma'am. I am coming from home. I took the day off."
The second I told her this, she looks at my shoes and then gives me a rotten look.
Let me take a moment here to describe my attire:
I was wearing a yellow checked shirt, black trousers, no tie, and a sneakers. Yes ... you read it right - a sneakers. To justify myself - I don't own a pair of formal shoes. And although - the sane thing would've been to buy one - I didn't think it was "worth it" to blow so much money on a pair of leather formal shoes - since I would be wearing it only this once.
Now, you know why she was giving me that rotten look. It's only when I saw her reaction - that I realized how important a formal attire was when attending a B-School Interview.
Anyways ... Moving right along ...
L1, and L2 settle down in their chairs. I am still waiting for an invitation to take my seat. L2 realizes that and asks me to take a seat.
Let me take another minute of your time to describe the seating arrangement in the room:
Basically, we were in some sort of a meeting room. So, there was this huge circular table with chairs strewn all over the place.
Now, back to the story ...
I observe that there is a seat right next to L2, and make a dash for it. I almost sat down on this chair when L1 points at a chair on the opposite side of the table and instructs me to sit in that chair.
Half heartedly, I obey her instructions.
L1 and L2 are busily leafing through my SOP. A minute later, L1 drops the SOP on the table and looks at me.
L1: "If I were to give you 3 minutes to tell me about you, what would you say. And since I have already read your SOP, I don't want to listen to anything you've written in there. So, tell me only stuff that's not there!!!"
This caught me unawares. I had rehearsed and re-rehearsed what I would say if I were asked this question. But, most of the stuff I had prepared for my "speech" was already there in my SOP. I was begining to go into a phase of Psychological Blackout. Trying to maintain my cool, I did some thinking and came up with an answer.
Me: "Basically, I am a very fun loving, jovial person. Also, I am very committed and dedicated to the tasks at hand. This is what you need to know about me that is not there in my SOP."
That's it. Seriously ... All I could cook up was this.
The ladies were giving me a "go on kiddo ... go on ..." look, but I looked back at them as if I had just spoken for hours and there was nothing more to say.
L1 looked pissed, but L2 felt sorry for me. She, I'm guessing, thought I was tensed at hell and decided to give me another chance.
L2: "So ... You mentioned fun-loving. What all do you do for fun?"
Me: "Well ... It depends ... On my mood and the resources I have at my disposal."
L2: "Music?"
Me: "Yeah ... I love music a lot."
L2: "What sort of music do you listen to most?"
Me: "Well ... I'm not sure whether you've heard of a genre called - Techno/Trance/Electronic?"
L2: (With an mischevious look) "Of course ... We're not that old Sharath!"
Me: "Sorry ... I didn't mean that. I just didn't think stuff like that 'sells' at places like this."
L2: (With a laugh) "No issues ... What else do you do - Books?"
Me: "Yes ... I do read a lot of books as well."
L2: "What sort of books do you prefer?"
Me: "I read all types of books. But, I like reading humor the most. As a matter of fact, I am reading this book called 'Snap Shots From Hell' by Peter Robinson. It's a very hilarious book.'
L2: "Hmmmmmmm ... I haven't heard about the author or the book. What's it about?"
I saw this as a chance to impress the interviewers and decided to talk at length about the book.
Me: "Its basically about the author's experiences while he was pursuing a MBA from Stanford. It talks about the woes of student from a non-financial/non-techie background. Also, it takes a dig at the MBA education system and how it breaks the students before moulding them. I short - Its fully loaded with satire about the MBA System."
When I stopped, L1 was giving me a schmuck look and L2 was not smiling her 70 mm smile anymore.
L1: "So basically, you like to laugh at the MBA and Education System eh?"
Its when she made this statement that I realized my folly. I knew anything I say wouldn't help me. So, I decided to smile back at them and keep quiet instead of trying to defend myself.
L2: "Hmmmmm ... So besides this. What else do you read thats humour?"
Me: "I just adore the Dilbert series by Scott Adams. Its one of my all time favourites."
L1: "But that's a cartoon strip, not a book."
Me: (Slightly Irritated with L1) "So what? It's still very funny and I like reading it!"
L1 looked slightly offended by my statement, but it also served as a clear indicator for her to back off.
L2: "Who is your favorite character in the series?"
Me: "Dilbert obviously!"
L2: "Why's that Sharath."
Me: "Basically, Dilbert is an engineer and he keeps taking a dig at management and their fallacies. As an engineer myself, I identify with him."
Yet again, L1 was giving me a schmuck look. L2 looked amused though.
L2: "And you are here to become a manager?"
Me: (With a laugh) "Well, real life is very different from a book."
L2: "So ... Besides this, what all do you do?"
Me: "I am into blogging."
L2: "Oh is it? Where do you blog?"
Me: "I write on www.blogspot.com"
L2: "Just one blog site?"
Me: "I explored other sites like www.ibibo.com, etc. But, I preferred the UI and features that blogspot gives me, and so I stick to one site."
L1: "What do you generally write about?"
Me: "I write about pretty much anything that happens in my life. You can expect to see my blog about this interview there in a bit."
L2: (Smiling) "Do you read any blogs?"
Me: "Yes ofcourse. I read blogs at a site called www.wokaylah.com. It's a web portal maintained by one of my seniors from college. A lot of good bloggers write there, and it makes for a fun read."
Since, I had made blunder after blunder, I decided to play on their feminist side to gain a few brownie points so that they wouldn't kick me out right away.
Me: "Also, I read a blog called 'What Women Want'."
L2: (Very Curious by now) "What's that about?"
Me: (Thinking - "The trick had worked") "It's basically an in-your-face blog maintained by a lady. It talks very openly about what women want in life, career, relationships and marriage. It definitely makes a fine read."
L1 and L2 were finally smiling together. Yaaaaaaaaaaay!!!
Me: "Besides this, I am also in the process of writing my first book."
L1: "Wow ... That's nice to hear! What genre?"
Me: "Its fiction. It talks about the life of a graduate - like me - from a good college and his dreams of a high flying career in the IT sector."
L2: "What stage of the book are you in right now?"
Me: "I'd say about 50%. I'm basically going through a writers block right now. Need to somehow maintain the humor and satire element and stray away from becoming overtly emotional per se."
L1: "Why on this topic?"
Me: "Well ... Basically, since I am an engineer who say dreams of a high flying career in this industry - I can identify easily with the protagonist in the story. Besides, with more than a million engineers in India - I am sure a lot of people will identify with this book, and hopefully - It will be a 'Best Seller'".
L1 and L2: (Smiling) "All the best with that."
Me: "Thanks."
At this point, I was hopeful that I could turn the interview to my advantage. But, that was not to be. Because, the very next second - Lighting Struck!
L1: "So ... Do you read the newspapers? What's the headlines today?"
To be honest, I haven't read a newspaper in a very loooooooooooooong while. To be more exact - 7.5 years. I read an odd article or two. But, nothing more than that.
So, I had two options:
1. Lie that I do read the newspaper.
2. Tell them the fact that I don't.
The problem with lying was the fact that they would catch me red handed - Because surely, when they asked me questions like - "What are the headlines today/yesterday/day-before, etc, I wouldn't be able to answer them. And that would clearly shatter my credibility per se.
So, I decided to go the safer route. In other words - Tell them the truth - that I don't read the newspapers.
Me: "I don't read the newspapers."
L1: "Oh ... you must be a very busy man. What about the news on TV?"
Me: "Well ... I don't have a TV at home!"
When I said this, L1 and L2 together looked at me in a totally shell shocked manner.
I bet they would've been thinking - "Even people in the remotest of villages have TV's. And you're staying in the most happenings high-tech city in India - and you don't have a TV?"
L1: "What about the internet?"
Me: (Slightly annoyed by her insistent prodding) "I don't follow the news. PERIOD!"
L1: (In a slightly annoyed tone) "So basically you're telling me that if I ask you about current affairs, international news, economy, politics, etc - you won't be in a position to answer?"
Me: (Nonchalantly) "Yup ..."
At this statement, L1 just gave up and fell back into her chair. L2 too didn't seem very impressed with my answer, but at least - she was still smiling (or at least trying to!).
By this time I realized that the interview had spoiled beyond recognition, and that my chances of getting an admit call was more remote than Milking A Rooster! So, I decided to have some fun myself.
Although L1 has given up on me, L2, I guess, wanted to give me a chance. I prefer to think of it as - she has a crush on me too, but I know that's just wishful thinking!
:D
L2: "You've mentioned in your SOP that the PGSEM class will benefit by your innovative ideas. Can you suggest one innovative idea that you would bring into class?"
Me: (Slightly nervous) "Wow ... That's a question I didn't anticipate ... Can you give me a minute to think?"
L2: "Sure ... Take all the time you need!"
Me: (After about a minute) "As per my understanding, you break the class into different groups to analyze case studies, etc. Right?"
L2: "Yes ..."
Me: "I also presume, that since this is part time course, no one is truly aware of the other persons skills and network per se."
L2: "Possibly yes ..."
Me: "I strongly believe in the power of social networking. And since MBA is all about business per se, I would try to bring in some sort of forum which would help the participants leverage the skills - both personal and their network - of every other participant in the class. You never know when someone you know could be useful. And more importantly - your classmate could be the one who could get you that multi-million dollar contract."
L2 seemed to be impressed with the idea.
L2: "Also, you've written about trying to achieve a work-life balance. Assuming that you reach a position in your organization where you can frame policies, what would you do to ensure that your employees also achieve a work-life balance?"
Me: "Well Ma'am. Firstly, I would try to incorporate Google's '1-day-for-your-own-ideas' policy. I believe, this is a way of clearly telling the employees that 'We Care About Your Needs'. Besides this, I would get the HR folks at each of the locations to conduct a lot of competition that would serve as a platform for the employees to showcase their talent. Additionally, I am aware that a lot of people want to learn new things like - Salsa, Public Speaking, Yoga, etc. But, due to a multitude of reasons, ranging from being shy to not having time because of workload, they are not able to pursue it. So, I would try to conduct workshops at office where people can pursue their interests."
L2: "Nice to see that you've got a lot of ideas ..."
Me: (Smiling) "Thanks Ma'am."
L2 takes a minute to read my SOP again.
L2: "You've written about wanting to do something for the blind. What's that all about?"
Me: "First of all, let me make one thing very clear. My idea of charity is not giving 100 rupees to a blind person because he/she needs the money more than me. I personally just can't buy the idea of giving away money when I haven't achieved all I need to with it. My idea of charity is giving away to people when I have in surplus. And that too by giving away - I don't mean giving away free. Its more like - I help them by giving them a tool or a skill which can help them in making a living."
L1 seemed offended by my statement. My guess is - her idea of charity is very different from mine.
Me: "Basically, I want to give them some sort of a vocational training which would help them earn a decent living. I understand most of the blind people make a living by making bags or chairs. The revenue they earn hardly helps them meet their day-to-day needs. What I want to do is something on the lines of starting a factory, or a business, where I can provide them a safe and conducive environment to work. Also, this would help them by giving them a job where they can fetch a daily wage and thereby lead a much better and economically better off life."
L2: "Hmmmmmm ... Ok!"
L1 who was silent till now, decides to step in and take a stab at me - AGAIN!
L1: "See Sharath ... I see you have a full life, and we're happy for you for that. But, we are looking for people who are very interested in what the Indian economy is like, what are the issues that affect the markets, international implications of the global cues and factors, etc. This course basically helps such people to go to the next level in their organizations by giving them an understanding of business and how best to run it. I am not sure you are interested in all that. Are you?"
I realized what the outcome of the interview was going to be with just that one statement she made. But, sure as hell, I wasn't going down without a fight.
Me: "Well Madam. The reason I am not very aware of these facts is because they don't really play a key role in what is the occurring in my life right now. But, like you mentioned, if these are key things which are required for me to be an effective manager - I don't see any reason why I can't pick them up. As a matter of fact, there are a lot of things besides technology that I have picked up as and when the need arose. For example, I am working on a ticketing solution which I am looking forward to sell. Technology wise, I am very familiar with how to build it. But, I learned the nuances of product feature specifications etc by reading a book on marketing. I did a market survey on the target audience to understand how successful my product would be. I did an analysis on existing market players and came up with features that would differentiate me from them. I also came up with an excellent revenue model for my product. These are things I learnt on my own because the need arose. So, like I said earlier, if the need arises, I don't see any reason why I can't pick up a newspaper reading habb\it and an interest in international affair or politics."
L2: "Hmmmmm ... Ok ..."
L2: "What do you think are the 3 major fallbacks in an entrepreneur
Me: "Arrogance ... Poor Money Management ... I don't know about the third."
L1: "What?"
Me: "Arrogance ... Poor Money Management ... And I'm sorry - I can't think of a third one!"
L2: What about strengths?"
Me: "Confidence ... Optimism ... and a Supportive Nature"
L2: "Could you please explain what you meant."
Me: "Without Confidence - there is no such thing as an Entrepreneur. By Supportive Nature I mean he should not be selfish and try to achieve only his goals, but he should also be sensitive to needs and goals of his team and the people trying to rally his cause. And Optimism - That is the most important strength. If you loose a contract, you should have the optimism to believe that another contract is around the corner and not cry or give."
L1 and L2: (Nodding their heads in a very appreciative manner) "That very true ... Well said Sharath!"
With this my interview came to an abrupt stop.
They asked me to ask anyone waiting outside to wait until called for. But, since no one was waiting outside, I took my leave and headed back home.
On the whole - It was a very very different experience. My performance was dismal to the core, but I learnt a loooooooooot of things and I am sure I can use this experience to my advantage next time around.
Anyways - For Now It's - Bye Bye PGSEM @IIMB!!!
I'm Flat Broke
Due to a family exigency - I had to lend Rs. 39000/- to my dad. This left me broke - yet again! Just that this time - its worse than my previous times.
This time - I am frigging BONE DRY!!!
(I mean it!!!)
But, anyways - since I have to pay up for my house deposit by next month (A whooping 40000 bucks) - I guess the only way out for me is to take alms/loans from my good old friends!!!
So, if anyone reading this lovely old blog of mine has a couple of thousands to spare - please feel free to contribute to the "Help Sharath Beat Poverty" fund. I will return your cash latest by the 1st week of June - That I promise!!!
Thanks in advance all you lovely philanthropists friends of mine ...
:-)
This time - I am frigging BONE DRY!!!
(I mean it!!!)
But, anyways - since I have to pay up for my house deposit by next month (A whooping 40000 bucks) - I guess the only way out for me is to take alms/loans from my good old friends!!!
So, if anyone reading this lovely old blog of mine has a couple of thousands to spare - please feel free to contribute to the "Help Sharath Beat Poverty" fund. I will return your cash latest by the 1st week of June - That I promise!!!
Thanks in advance all you lovely philanthropists friends of mine ...
:-)
Crying
Crying ... It's one of the most common things you see on TV Soaps these days (atleast the Hindi and Mallu ones that I know of). The TV serial heroine is always ostracised, and she is left with not other alternative but to "cry" it out (don't ask me the logic behind it - I have no clue!!!). Or, there is someone or the other dying (or if we viewers are lucky - Dead), and this leads to another set of people crying. In short - TV Soaps are filled with someone or the other crying!
Anyways - none of them are "crying for real". So lets not take into account their tears!
But, since we are on this topic - Lets take a moment to think:
Why do people cry???
Well - the answer is very very simple - Because they are really really upset!
Is crying the right thing to do?
Well - although the answer is not very straight forward this time around - its a mechanism, more like an instinct, to vent their frustration at not being able to do anything in particular to resolve the particular problem/crisis they are facing. And although it might not be the "best of solutions" - it helps one overcome, or at the very least - live with, an adversity.
Who all cry?
Well - The answer to this question is elementary - EVERYONE!
Even the most hardened criminals would cry - provided the right stimulus came their way!
Kids cry when the are injured.
Men cry when their glory is destroyed.
Women cry when their pride is tarnished.
Mothers cry when their children are hurt.
Lovers cry when their lover is upset.
I could go on and on and on ...
But to cut a long story short: "People cry whenever they experience an unforeseen person loss, and it is a very natural instinct - Period!"
Anyways - none of them are "crying for real". So lets not take into account their tears!
But, since we are on this topic - Lets take a moment to think:
Why do people cry???
Well - the answer is very very simple - Because they are really really upset!
Is crying the right thing to do?
Well - although the answer is not very straight forward this time around - its a mechanism, more like an instinct, to vent their frustration at not being able to do anything in particular to resolve the particular problem/crisis they are facing. And although it might not be the "best of solutions" - it helps one overcome, or at the very least - live with, an adversity.
Who all cry?
Well - The answer to this question is elementary - EVERYONE!
Even the most hardened criminals would cry - provided the right stimulus came their way!
Kids cry when the are injured.
Men cry when their glory is destroyed.
Women cry when their pride is tarnished.
Mothers cry when their children are hurt.
Lovers cry when their lover is upset.
I could go on and on and on ...
But to cut a long story short: "People cry whenever they experience an unforeseen person loss, and it is a very natural instinct - Period!"
My Kerala Vacation
Finally ... After around a 3 month long hiatus, I am back in Cochin, Kerala. My brother also made it a point to come down to meet me. Mom and Dad are extremely elated at being able to have a "family reunion" after such a long while.
Just like a Master Card ad - Their smiles are truly "Priceless".
Just like a Master Card ad - Their smiles are truly "Priceless".
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