The aggregate marks of candidates qualifying in both the Objective Tests and Descriptive Test will be arranged in descending order in each category. The adequate number of candidates in each category, as decided by the Bank will be called for Group Exercises and Interview. The qualifying marks in Group Exercises & Interview will be as decided by the Bank.
Note: Unlike previous years, SBI PO 2017 selection process has group exercises in place of group discussions. Many aspirants have been very inquisitive about the replacement of group discussions with group exercises. Below we discuss group exercises along with the evaluation criterion for group exercises.
So, what are group exercises?
Group exercises are tasks (one or more) performed by candidates in small groups. Each group will consist of 3-5 individuals and is constantly monitored by some assessors. The assessors make notes of the performance of each of the individuals in a group in different tasks. The candidates are evaluated based on their contribution to the group exercises. Following are examples of some of the group exercises:
1. Group discussion about the given topic. The topics can be generic or currently trending topics in the world. Sample GD Topic: Discuss the impact of demonetization move on Indian economy? Impact of GST on Indian Economy (Advantages, Disadvantages, any other thoughts/comments/suggestions)
2. Identifying an optimal solution to a Problem. A problem is given to the group. The individuals in the group have to discuss and debate over the different possible solutions, pros and cons of each solution, the feasibility of the solution and present an optimal and final answer to the assessor.
3. Finish a group task.
In group exercises, the candidates will be ranked/rated based on the following: (Note: The list is not exhaustive)
- Ability to follow the rules and regulations set for group exercises.
- Leadership skills
- Knowledge of the current affairs topics,
- Ability to initiate the discussions,
- Ability to present logical arguments for the discussions,
- Ability to speak confidently
- Clarity of thoughts and language,
- Interaction with the members of the team,
- Body language and Eye contact with the members of the team,
- Voice modulation
Group discussion topics will prominently be based on current affairs of the World/India/Banking sector.
Interview:
An interview is the final phase of SBI PO selection process. Interviews generally last for about 20-30 minutes. Be calm and composed during the interview. The following are the commonly asked questions in the Interviews for SBI PO Selection process:
Generic Questions: Name, Place of Residence, What is your hometown famous for, Hobbies, Where did you finish your schooling, Why did you choose this career option? etc..
Academic Background: Academic Qualifications, Questions related to your graduation discipline/degree, Projects that you worked upon during your undergraduate/graduate studies, Questions about any internships/previous employment, etc..
Banking Sector: Basic questions about banking, Your knowledge of the roles and responsibilities of the position you have applied for, your views about the current changes/trends in banking sector, etc..
Current Affairs: Your views about the currently trending topics in the world/India. Your suggestions about how could things be different, Your knowledge/understanding of the impact of major changes(demonetization) on Indian economy, etc..
Group Exercises: Can you explain your point that you mentioned in the group exercises, What is your opinion on the points mentioned by others in the group exercises, etc..
Note: The interviewers do not expect the candidates to know the answers to all the questions. The candidate is examined for: his/ her ability to speak confidently, ability to present his/ her views, clarity of thought, interaction with different people, ability to handle different questions, clarity of language etc. among several others.