Ad-PR | GD-PI : Sailing Through The Final Lap

Kunal Duggal: Just Blending the right ingredients and skill-set required to be Crazy, innovative and think business solutions that endear your clients and endures the organization where you work. I started my career into hospitality and later migrated to Digital media marketing. With almost 3.5 years of Work Experience & exposure across industries (worked with Intercontinental Hospitality group & Google India), I landed into IIMC in 2012 to continue my learning spree.  Post ADPR curriculum 2012-2013, at present I am working on some very exciting projects and brands with media major GROUPM as a BUSINESS MANAGER- Digital Insights and Strategy. Journey at IIMC was enriching, empowering and eclectic. Though never bothered about scoring, somehow learning was paramount but still landed to be 3rd topper in ADPR Batch 2012-13. Beyond Media and Advertising I am self-driven & self-grown entrepreneur, at present operating as COO for 2 of my young e-commerce ventures into fashion and Automobile sector. 

CONGRATUALTIONS for your mighty conquest over the ADPR entrance exam.

As far as I have understood the recruitment process at IIMC, they would combine your entrance exam & GD+ Interview scores and then bring out the final list of students.

To make things simpler and systematic for you folks I will share points some MACRO and MICRO level point.

MACRO points of consideration
• In order to prepare for GD and interview first of all recollect facts, figures and features about you. An arduous task but try to filter information of almost last 5 years in your life and build a grip on the most relevant, impactful & differentiating factoids. Remember there is going to be a clutter of talent and you need to exhibit your talent and core competencies.
• Read on topical issues in general and pertaining to the advertising industry. Try connecting dots or contemplate on information excerpts. The greater time you spend with data more facts and dimensions will be deciphered.  The  keyword is SPEND TIME WITH DATA (learned from a media planning Veteran)
• Try to delve into case-studies, prominent ad campaigns & major controversial issues in last 12-18 months and bring out some useful pointers and statements of debate. This will really help you in GD.
• Digital and Mobile Marketing are the next big cults in advertising, at least build some threshold level acquaintance with these subjects. This will be a value added.  Just to share, I was given a green signal to the course the moment I started talking about digital & social media stuff in the interview. It left a strong impact on the panelist.
• Just keep conversing and talking few hours before the event. It is somewhat helpful in removing hitches and glitches. One tends to get in flow and it also helps in curbing anxiety.
• Be well groomed and formally dressed for the D-day.

MICRO FACTS ON GD
• GD is conducted in groups of 6-8 people. In highest probability each group is a mix of over-aggressive, aggressive, tepid and introvertish people.
• The panel of evaluators will constitute of 3-4 members. Course director along with couple of Industry honchos form the selection panel.
• As a standard operating procedure, you all get 8-10 minutes to discuss the topic amongst the group members and then 1 minute each is allotted to all group members to self-conclude or share the crux of the discussion.
• The major scoring areas of GD as decoded by me are either to start or at the end one minute summarization session.
• There isn’t a sacrosanct or collection of sample GD topics. But the topics won’t be very outlandish or Greek to most of you. Panelists are just observing your confidence, communication skills and basic aptitude for the course. Majority of topics will revolve around social media, popular/trending industries, brand comparisons, brand ambassadors, etc.
• Just be aware of major happening in global, national and advertising front in last 6 months and have solid facts in place to support your viewpoint in GD. Do not make statements in thin air or vacuum. Have pointers to support when making strong interjections.
• Always make eye contact with your group members in the GD while sharing your point and do not look at the panelist. They simply get pissed.
• Try having a formalized discussion and not diverging into a boisterous outing. Argumentativeness and over-aggression can result in negative marking by the panelist.
• Don’t panic in case you receive a topic that isn’t your interest area. Just spend 2 mins and try to build a symbiotic relation with topic of your interest. Example) the topic for GD is impact of Facebook in India. May be you are not well versed with facts about social networking landscape and your interest lies in music. Simply try to connect growth in music trends via social media space and make some solid pointers on this. Just remembers each subject can get connected to other, provided you know the trait and trick. It isn’t difficult just need some common sense and presence of mind.
• Try to portray yourself as a pleasant personality and don’t enter yourself into phenomena of “ACHILLES HEEL”. Your exam score holds greater weightage. GD and interview share a smaller pie in terms of evaluation and selection process.  So play smart and no need to be overloaded.

MICRO FACTS ON INTERVIEW
• Interview is conducted post GD and there is no elimination in the GD round.
• Panelists conducting the GD also take care of the interview round.
• Be well versed with the details you have filled in the IIMC admission form during pre-admission process. There is a tendency of cross questioning from the panelist. In most circumstances it happens if the candidate details are very interesting or they seem highly dubious.
• Most of the panelists possess a work experience of more than the average age of candidate applying for admission into IIMC. So be candid and just talk about things that can be supported with facts. Do not get into superlatives, generic statements or platitudes.
• Make a note that the astute interviewers are industry experts and exposed to fathomic information & knowledge. Dodging them on facts or information can land you up into a meandering situation.  So just talk
- What you have done.
- What you know
- What are your key interest areas that made you apply into IIMC
- What you want to derive out the course & potential tenure at IIMC. These pointers are sufficient enough to make a mark on the panel.  
• If you are a mass communication graduate, brush-up your basics and technical terms. Panelist will examine your industry understanding and at situation this can be a pro as well as a con for candidates.
• Rather than simply answering or making it a linear interview, try to engage a conversation. That helps in occupying time and makes the panelist stick to your forte and zone of interest & strength.
• As far as my understanding first 3-4 min of the interview are very crucial as they contribute largely in forming an opinion about you. So you can make or break the interest of the panelist in those few moments.
• Conduct yourself well and behave little professionally. This is specially a caveat for fresh graduates who are still not exposed to the corporate culture and industry.

AT LAST I WOULD SIMPLY CONCLUDE MY SAYING---YOU ARE ALMOST THERE JUST FEW MORE MILES TO GO.

GIVE YOUR BEST SHOT & SIMPLY THINK THAT ALMIGHTY HAS GIVEN YOU THIS OPPORTUNITY BASED ON YOUR TALENT & EFFORTS.

SO MAKE THE BEST USE OF IT. DON’T PUT IN FRUGAL EFFORTS & SQUANDER THE OPPORTUNITY.

WISH YOU ALL BEST OF LUCK FOR A WONDERFUL CAREER AHEAD.

खुद को जानें, सवाल आपके ही आस-पास बुने जाएंगे

प्रियंका झा दिल्ली विश्वविद्यालय से हिन्दी पत्रकारिता में स्नातक करने के बाद भारतीय जनसंचार संस्थान पहुंचीं. हिन्दी पत्रकारिता विभाग की सेकेंड टॉपर और तमाम विभाग व सारे कैंपस की संयुक्त थर्ड टॉपर हैं. प्रियंका कैंपस प्लेसमेंट से हिन्दुस्तान के साथ जुड़ रही हैं.

एक ज़माना था जब लोग अच्छी नौकरी पाने के लिए इंटरव्यू दिया करते थे, पर आज अच्छे कॉलेज में एडमिशन लेने में भी इंटरव्यू बहुत ज़रुरी हिस्सा हो गया है. किसी भी प्रोफेशनल कोर्स के लिए तो ये लगभग अनिवार्य ही है.

अक्सर इंटरव्यू के नाम से ही घबराहट होने लगती है और ऐसा होना आम बात भी है. लेकिन कई बार लोग इतना घबरा जाते हैं कि उनकी परफॉर्मेंस खराब हो जाती है इसलिए हमें ध्यान रखना चाहिए कि हमारी नर्वसनेस कहीं हम पर ही हावी न हो जाए.

कई बार तो लोग इतनी हड़बड़ाहट में होते हैं कि वो सवाल पूरा नहीं सुनते और जवाब देना शुरू कर देते हैं. ऐसा करना मुसीबत खड़ा करता है. सामने वाला आपको सवालों के घेरे में कुछ इस तरह जकड़ता है कि आप और ज़्यादा घबरा जाते हैं. सवाल को पूरा सुनकर, सोच-समझकर ही जवाब देना चाहिए. जो सवाल किया जाए सिर्फ उसका ही जवाब देना चाहिए. कई बार बहुत लंबा हो जाने की वजह से जवाब के ऊबाउ हो जाने का डर रहता है.

इंसान कितनी भी कोशिश कर ले लेकिन वो हर छोटी-बड़ी बात को याद नहीं रख सकता. कहीं न कहीं कुछ तो छूटता ही है. ऐसे में अगर आपसे ऐसा सवाल पूछा जाए जिसका जवाब आप नहीं जानते तो साफ कह दें कि आप इस बारे में नहीं जानते.

इंटरव्यू में आमतौर पर सामान्य सवाल ही किए जाते हैं जैसे आपने जो पढ़ाई की है उसके बारे में. अच्छा ये होगा कि पहले से ही अपनी पढ़ाई का सारांश 5-6 बिंदुओं में तैयार कर लें. इंटरव्यू में आपसे सबसे पहले आपके बारे में ही पूछा जाता है. तो हम जिस क्षेत्र से हैं उसके बारे में अच्छी जानकारी बहुत ज़रूरी है. जैसे मैं बिहार के मधुबनी ज़िले से हूं तो मेरे लिए उस जगह की खासियत, कमज़ोरी, विधायक, सांसद, राजनीति, प्रसिद्ध कलाकार आदि की जानकारी बहुत ज़रूरी है. इसमें गलती की कोई गुंजाइश नहीं है. यहीं से बात निकलेगी और निकलकर दूर तक जाएगी. देश की राजनीति तक, देश से बाहर भी. कई बार आपको ऐसा लगेगा कि इंटरव्यू के ड्राइवर आप हैं क्योंकि आपके जवाब से ही सवाल निकाले जाएंगे. इसलिए जवाब देने में समझदारी दिखाएं और बातचीत को उस तरफ न ले जाएं जो आपका मजबूत इलाका न हो.

हर इंसान की अपनी पसंद-नापसंद, कमियां-खूबियां, रूचि-अरूचि होती है. बस ज़रूरत है इसे प्रभावी तरीके से बताने की. ऐसा न हो कि हमने संगीत को अपनी रूचि बताया और हमें प्रसिद्ध संगीतकारों के नाम ही न पता हों. इसलिए अपने बारे में जो भी बताएं, उसके बारे में अच्छी जानकारी रखें.

अंत में लेकिन सबसे महत्वपूर्ण बात. अपने आस-पास, देश-दुनिया में क्या घट रहा है इसकी जानकारी सबसे ज्यादा ज़रूरी है. इसके लिए रोज़ाना टीवी न्यूज़ देखना, अखबार, मैगज़ीन्स, अलग-अलग समाचार वेबसाइट्स पढ़ना ज़रूरी है. 

एक अच्छा इंटरव्यू देने के लिए ज्ञान की ज़रूरत तो है ही पर इससे भी ज़्यादा ज़रूरत है आत्मविश्वास की. आत्मविश्वास से ही आप हर सवाल का प्रभावी जवाब दे सकते हैं और अपनी एक अलग छाप छोड़ने में सफल हो सकते हैं.

सफलता का कोई शॉर्टकट नहीं होता

अंकित रॉय रेडियो एवं टेलीविजन पत्रकारिता विभाग के 2012-13 बैच के चौथे टॉपर हैं. कैम्पस प्लेसमेंट से IBN 7 न्यूज़ चैनल पहुंचे हैं.

इन्सान खुश होने के मौके ढूंढता फिरता है. और मैं भी यही करता हूं. फिलहाल मै इस बात से खुश हूं कि मुझे लिखने का या कहें कि ज्ञान बांटने का मौका दिया गया है. क्यूंकि ज्ञान तो बांटने से ही बढ़ता है. सबसे पहले तो प्रवेश परीक्षा में सफल होकर साक्षात्कार राउंड तक पहुंचे सभी साथियों को बहुत-बहुत बधाई एवं शुभकामनाएं.

मैंने खुश होने की बात कही क्यूंकि मैं तो सिर्फ इसी बात से खुश हो गया था कि मै साक्षात्कार के राउंड तक पहुंच गया हूं. खैर वो सब पुरानी बातें हैं. फिलहाल हम आप सबकी बात करते हैं. मै जानता हूं कि यहां तक पहुँचने के लिए आपने बहुत मेहनत की है और इतनी दूर तक पहुंचने के बाद आप खाली हाथ बिल्कुल नहीं लौटना चाहेंगे. चूंकि मै ‘रेडियो एवं टेलीविजन पत्रकारिता’ का छात्र रहा हूं तो मै आपको उसके साक्षात्कार का पैटर्न समझाने की कोशिश करता हूं. रेडियो एवं टेलीविजन पत्रकारिता के साक्षात्कार को दो भाग में बांटा जा सकता है. साक्षात्कार राउंड के 15 मार्क्स में से 10 नंबर साक्षात्कार के होते हैं और 5 नंबर PTC के.

Interview (15) = Interview (10) + PTC (5)

साक्षात्कार की बात करें तो उसमे सबसे महत्वपूर्ण है आपका ज्ञान. विषय आपकी पसंद का हो सकता है. मैं जानता हूं कि रूम में पहुंचने के बाद आम तौर पर लोग नर्वसा जाते हैं. मै भी नर्वस हो गया था. और मै समझता हूं कि थोड़ी घबराहट होनी भी चाहिए. इससे संतुलन बना रहता है और कॉन्फिडेंस ‘ओवरकॉन्फिडेंस’ में तब्दील नहीं होता. लेकिन एक बार अन्दर जाने के बाद सामने पैनल में बैठे हमारे प्रोफेसर्स माहौल को बहुत कम्फर्टेबल बनाने की कोशिश करते हैं इसलिए आप बेफिक्र रहें.

आम तौर पर कुछ सवाल हर किसी से पूछे जाते हैं. जैसे कि अपने बारे में बताइए. आप कहां से हैं और आपने क्या पढ़ाई की है और आपका पसंदीदा क्षेत्र (राजनीति, खेल, मनोरंजन) क्या है. यही सवाल सबसे ज्यादा महत्वपूर्ण होते हैं क्यूंकि इन्ही सवालों के जवाब से उनके अगले सवाल निकलते हैं. ये बहुत ज़रूरी है कि आप जो कुछ भी बता रहे हैं वो सब सच हो वरना अगले सवाल में आपका झूठ फ़ौरन सामने आ जाएगा.

दूसरी सबसे महत्वपूर्ण बात है “Eye Contact”. आप जो भी जवाब दें बिल्कुल सामने देखकर. नज़रें नीची नहीं होनी चाहिए. अपना “Eye Contact” सभी पैनेलिस्ट्स से बनाए रखें. टीवी की भाषा में कैमरा घुमाते रहें. सबको सुनाते रहें, सबको बताते रहें. किसी भी सवाल के जवाब में आपके जो भी विचार हों उसे खुल कर व्यक्त करने की कोशिश करें और अपनी बात को फैक्ट्स के साथ पेश करें. सिर्फ हवा में तीर चलाने और बिना सर-पैर की बात करने का कोई मतलब नहीं है. आप जितने अच्छे से अपनी बात को व्यक्त कर पाएंगे, उतना ही आपका फायदा होगा इसलिए इस बात का ध्यान रखें. किसी विषय के बारे में या किसी सवाल का जवाब आपको न पता हो तो साफ़ मना कर दें कि आपको इस विषय की जानकारी नहीं है. गलत जवाब देने का नुकसान होगा.

सवालों के बाद बारी आती है PTC यानी Piece to Camera की. साक्षात्कार के अंत में आपसे किसी विषय पर PTC करने को कहा जाएगा. आपमें से कई लोगों के लिए PTC एक नया टर्म हो सकता है, लेकिन फिलहाल आप इसे इस तरह से समझें कि आपको जो भी विषय दिया गया हो उसके बारे में 20 सेकेण्ड के लिए आपको कैमरा के सामने बोलना है. ये टेस्ट सिर्फ इसी बात को चेक करने के लिए किया जाता है कि कैमरे के सामने आप अपनी बात को कैसे रखते हैं और आपकी उपस्थिति कैसी है. पैनल देखना चाहता है कि कैमरे के सामने आप खुद को कितना सहज रख पाते हैं और बात को कितना सहेज कर कह पाते हैं. साथ ही इससे आपकी आवाज़ की गुणवत्ता का भी पता चलता है जो रेडियो एवं टेलीविजन की दुनिया में बहुत मायने रखता है.

एक बात और है जिसकी ओर मै हिन्दी भाषी छात्रों का ध्यान खींचना चाहता हूं. खासकर उनकी जो ये समझते हैं कि उनकी अंग्रेजी कमज़ोर है. वो पैनेल के सामने गलत या टूटी-फूटी अंग्रेजी में जवाब देने की कोशिश न करें. आप अगर हिंदी में अच्छे से जवाब दे सकते हैं तो हिंदी का ही प्रयोग करें. ये कोर्स जितना अंग्रेजी बोलने वालों के लिए है उतना ही हिंदी बोलने वालों के लिए भी. हम सभी जानते हैं कि ज़माने की ज़रूरत अंग्रेजी भाषा है और आप इतनी अंग्रेजी जानते हैं तभी इंटरव्यू तक पहुंच पाए हैं. अंग्रेजी के साथ खुद को ढालने के मौके आगे आएंगे. साक्षात्कार में आप गलत भाषा का प्रयोग करेंगे तो अनर्थ होगा. आप अपनी बात को ठीक तरीके से व्यक्त नहीं कर पाएंगे और ये बात आपके पक्ष में नहीं जाएगी. इसलिए जिस भाषा में कम्फर्टेबल हैं उसी का प्रयोग करें.

मै आपसे कुछ ख़ास पढने के लिए नहीं कह रहा हूं क्यूंकि वो तो आप पहले से ही करते आए हैं और इसलिए इस पोस्ट को पढ़ भी रहे हैं. बस उसी तरह पढ़ते-लिखते रहिये. रोज़ अखबारों, पत्रिकाओं और टेलीविजन से रुबरू होइए और उसमे मौजूद हर चीज़ को अच्छे से नोटिस करिए. इंटरव्यू वाले दिन प्रमुख अखबारों और समाचार चैनलों को एक बार देखते हुए घर से निकलें. रास्ते में भी अखबार पलटते रहें. कई बार आपसे उस दिन के अखबार या चैनल पर चल रही खबरों के बारे में भी पूछ लिया जाता है. आपकी जुबां से निकली हर बात के पीछे एक ‘क्यूं’ होता है, उस क्यूं का जवाब आपके पास होना चाहिए. अगर जवाब नहीं है तो जवाब को तलाशिये. चाहे कितनी मेहनत क्यूं न करनी पड़े क्यूंकि सफलता का कोई शॉर्टकट नहीं होता.

पढ़ाई-लिखाई से अलग हट के एक बात जो मैं जानता हूँ वो ये कि आप अपने हिस्से का काम पूरी ईमानदारी से कीजिये और अपना सौ प्रतिशत दीजिये, बाकी के लिए तो दुनिया वाले बैठे ही हैं. मेरे ख्याल में फिलहाल इतना ज्ञान काफी है.

उम्मीद है कि जल्द ही मुलाक़ात होगी. शुभकामनाएं.

Know Thyself: Ultimate Key to Crack GD/PI Round

Tanima Banerjee, topped from the IIMC, Dhenkanal campus in English Journalism of Batch 2012-13. She is 3rd topper of EJ among all six campuses. Graduated in English Literature from Lady Shriram College for Women, Delhi University. Worked as an Intern at The Asian Age, New Delhi. Presently works as Sub-editor at Business Standard, New Delhi. Regular blogger at Youthkiawaaz.com. Is a trained classical dancer and a complete book worm and movie buff.

First and foremost, a hearty congratulation to everyone for cracking the entrance examination, which is like more than half the battle won.  A good score in the written test will, in all probability, secure a place for you in India’s premier journalism institute. Yet, all’s not over.  A lot hinges on the GD/PI round, which will not just test your answers, but you as an individual.

For English Journalism, mostly a personal interview is held. But just in case you have a group discussion round, just remember a few things. Be calm and patient. Have respect for the views and opinions of your fellow groupmates. The GD topics would be very general, topics which bring out the pros and cons of the issue. You need to place your opinions smartly and suavely, without ending up in a tussle with any other group members.

In order to frame such opinions, I advise you to watch Newshour debate on TimesNow or We, the people on NDTV. These shows will also help you in your personal interviews, and help you not only in framing an opinion about an issue/event but also facilitate communicating those opinions. Do not haul or shout your views, as it posits a really bad impression on your selectors. Being a good listener, and giving logical arguments based on facts is the key to crack these group discussions.

For your interviews, the most important thing that you must remember, is that there is nothing to be intimidated about. You may see your peers with notes and newspapers, looking either too peeved or extremely over-confident. Shut your senses to these people, and believe in yourself. There is no reason to be nervous, because an interview examines you on what you know, and not on what you don't know.

You need to have a clear head before entering the interview room. Be smartly dressed in formal/semi-formal. Seek permission from your panel to enter the room. Don't forget that pleasant smile as you greet , acknowledging each and every member of your panel present in that room. The beginning of your interview would comprise of basic questions, pertaining to yourself, academic qualifications, your hometown, or the classic "Why journalism?" Make sure you are prepared with these answers mentally in your head. You don't have to give pretentious or amusing answers using flowery language. Just be true to yourself, and present yourself in a way that shows the panel your passion for this profession, and your willingness to seek training and guidance from an institution of national and international repute. If the panel gets the slightest hint that you are not sure of what you really want, or why you are here, that scraps your chances completely.

Soon the panel would get into asking questions based on your subject, or current affairs. In order to prepare yourself for these questions, you just need to read the newspaper daily, or watch news on television. Reading editorials and magazines will help you frame opinions and help to strengthen your answers with logic and facts. They usually ask your take or opinion on any incident or happening. Just deliver your answers confidently. In case you get bumped by a question whose answer you don't know, there is nothing to worry about. Just tell them whatever you know, or simply be honest to them and tell them you don't know. Also, its okay if you stammer or made some mistake. Either correct yourself with a 'sorry about that' or just go on with your answer. The panel will move on to some other question in your domain that you might be comfortable in answering.

An interview for the course of journalism will not only test your knowledge, but your communication skills. Enrich your vocabulary by reading novels and newspapers. Watch English news channels and English movies to improve your pronunciation and enunciation. A poor spoken English will not have a very good impression on your interviewers. Make sure you have eye contact with all the members of your panel while answering. Don't make unnecessary hand gestures while answering, or get too loud or too soft. Adopt a normal, conversational tone and engage your interviewers with clear, to-the-point replies.

Finally, the biggest assets you possess in  order to crack these interviews is your self-belief and self-confidence. If you truly desire to enter into the field of journalism, there is nothing that can stop you. Your ambition, confidence, sincerity and dedication will automatically reflect in your interview if you just be yourself. That's the key to crack the final code of Mission IIMC.

Best of luck everybody!

Your Confidence is the Key to Crack IIMC Interview

Anita Yadav is 8th topper of Radio & Television Journalism 2012-13 Batch. She is currently working with Rajya Sabha Television, New Delhi.

First of all my hearty congratulations to all  of you who have passed through  the first big hurdle -- the entrance exam. Don’t get complacent or be proud of yourself. You have just passed the first step to achieve your goal. After reading all the news related stuff from magazine, newspapers and all, now its time for you to gear up for the interview and get a foothold on your verbal skills. Written and verbal skills are totally poles apart. And its not always true that those who are good in writing will be equally good in speaking. So don’t get taken away by the success in entrance and concentrate on making yourself the best contender for IIMC. Dress up in proper formals as your first impression would be the last and the longer one.

Cracking the interview isn’t  a big deal but don’t take it lightly. You have to be very smart, quick, and clear in your thoughts. Start developing your own views on every issue and go into its depth. Don’t beat around the bush and try to give short, crisp and precise answers. No matter how much you know about the topic, just be confident and believe in yourself. Don’t pretend or get intimidated by others, just be yourself and give your best.

For the Radio and Television aspirants, brace yourself for the Piece to Camera (PTC). For PTC, you will be given a topic on which you have to speak in front of the camera and give your opinion in about 30 seconds. Try not to exceed the time limit. Do give your opinion but without being judgemental.

So, since very few days are left for the interview, prepare yourself thoroughly. Stay abreast of current affairs. Read as many newspapers as possible. Watch all the leading news channels. Only your knowledge in news and current affairs will give you the seat in IIMC.

Brace up yourself for the one last test to enter your dream college.

IIMC is waiting for you

All the Best ! Cheers!!

IIMC Entrance Interviews: The Final Frontier

My name is Shayak Majumder. I have studied English Journalism from IIMC Dhenkanal as a part of the 2012-2013 batch. Presently i am working as a reporter in Civil Society magazine. I am also an Assistant Editor in CampusHash.com 

For many, cracking the lionised written examinations is regarded as the gateway to the world of IIMC academia. Sadly, the journey is not over yet. The selected ones must traverse through the tricky IIMC interviews, which ultimately decide the final selections.

It is very easy to come out of an interview with flying colours, if one keeps in mind a few TO-Dos during their interviews. Here they are:-

1. Prepare the questions you couldn’t answer: After your written exam is over, make sure that you read up and collect enough information on all the questions you couldn’t answer on the test. Not only does this help build the much needed current affairs knowledge, it also sets you up in the right track of following current news and events, which will take a centre stage during the interview.

2. Read, Read, Read: The trickiest part of the interview round is that questions from any sphere of knowledge might be shot at you. So, you must strengthen your knowledge base as much as possible. Read newspapers and magazines on a regular basis. In interviews, the interviewees will mostly ask your opinion on certain issues and events. Reading up news editorials gives you enough information to formulate strong opinions.

3. Interview FAQs: Every interview starts with the question – “Tell us something about yourself.” Prepare a good answer beforehand, that gives all the important information about yourself in a nutshell. Make sure you mention your outstanding achievements, but don’t get too boastful. Interviewees may ask you questions regarding your birthplace and/or current place of living. So make sure you get the immediate facts about your locality/town’s politics, governance, specialities and other facts ready.

Another question that does the round is– “Why do you want to pursue journalism as a career?” You would probably face this question even after your IIMC classes start, all the way to the placement sessions. So, answer honestly, reflecting upon your passion for the profession of journalism. Also try to talk about any journalistic work you have engaged into so far.

Students of journalism may face the question – “You have already graduated with journalism as your subject. Why do you want to study further on journalism? Why not pick a different field of study?” Again, answer honestly; the interviewees must clearly understand why you want to pursue journalism from IIMC and what importance it holds for you.

4. If you don’t know the answer, just say it: It is impossible for a human mind to know everything happening all over the world. So, you might just come across a question which you cannot answer. Don’t make up an answer! Be polite and simply say that you don’t know the answer of the question.

5. Dress well: A formal dress-up is heavily advised. You are about to step into a professional course, so it is crucial that you look the part. As they say, the first impression is the last impression – your attire makes up 50% of your first impression.  Also, it gives you a much needed confidence boost once you enter the interview room looking your formal best.

Guys, try to put on a good formal tie that goes well with the shirt. Works wonders, trust me.

Girls, be it a shirt or a salwar-kameez, a formal wear will surely bring your smart, confident self out.

6. Be confident and showcase your soft skills: You will be interviewed by a panel of interviewees. Some will ask the questions, while some will keep an eye on your body language, spoken skills and confidence level. So be confident. Maintain eye contact with all the interviewees while answering the questions. Speak fluently in an average yet audible volume. Don’t speak out too loud or too low. Don’t get into a quarrel with the interviewees under any circumstances. Remember, the interview rounds don’t only check your knowledge but also your soft skills.

7. Relax, smile more often: You wouldn’t like to talk to a person who sits like a stiff cardboard, would you? Same goes with the interviewees. They would also like to converse with a relaxed person who is enjoying the conversation as much. A smile helps brighten up the situation and almost always is received as a positive sign of confidence. Don’t think of the interviews as some unbreakable juggernaut. Take it easy. It’s simply a round of talks that involves a few questions and discussions.

IIMC interviews are not hard to crack. Just be confident in yourself and your abilities. Don’t get tensed up too much before the interviews and am sure the entire process will be a breeze.

A time full of grand learning and experience lies ahead of you, just beyond the final frontiers of interviews. So give it your best and success will surely follow.

Best of Luck!!!

आत्मविश्वास से इंटरव्यू में पार लगेगी नैया

सबा वकील आईआईएमसी हिन्दी पत्रकारिता विभाग के 2012-2013 बैच की तीसरी टॉपर हैं. सबा कैंपस प्लेसमेंट के रास्ते हिन्दुस्तान अखबार से जुड़ी हैं.

आईआईएमसी की प्रवेश परीक्षा पास करने वालों को मेरी ओर से ढेरों बधाई. जो लोग इस बार परीक्षा में पास नहीं हो पाए उनके लिए बस इतना कहना चाहूंगी ये सिर्फ शुरुआत है. इस बार सफल नहीं हुए तो आगे और भी अवसर आएंगे जिनका फायदा उठाने के लिए प्रयत्न करें, सफलता ज़रूर मिलेगी. अपने लेखन को सुधारने के साथ ही लगातार पत्र-पत्रिकाओं और समाचार चैनलों से जुड़े रहें. बस हार नहीं माननी है.

अब बात उन लोगों की जिन्होंने आधी मंज़िल तय कर ली है और आधा सफर अभी बाकी है. प्रवेश परीक्षा के बाद बारी है पर्सनल इंटरव्यू की. हिन्दी विभाग में समूह चर्चा यानी ग्रुप डिस्कशन आम तौर पर नहीं होती है. आप में से बहुत से लोग ऐसे होंगे जिनको कई तरह के इंटरव्यू का अनुभव होगा, वहीं कुछ लोग ऐसे भी होंगे जिनके लिए यह इस तरह का पहला मौका होगा.

सबसे पहले तो आप सभी ये मान कर चलें कि जो व्यक्ति आप का इंटरव्यू लेने बैठा होगा वो भी आप की तरह सामान्य व्यक्ति है. देखा जाता है कि इस तरह के इंटरव्यू में अभ्यर्थी बहुत परेशान हो जाते हैं या फिर ज्यादा उत्साह में कुछ ऐसा बोल जाते हैं जिसका सामने वाले पर नकारात्मक प्रभाव पड़ता है. आप की कोशिश ये होनी चाहिए कि आप जैसे हैं, वैसा ही अपने बारे में बताए. इंटरव्यू के दौरान आप जो हैं, वही रहें. बनावटीपन से खुद को दूर रखें.

ये खासियत आईआईएमसी के साथ ही पत्रकारिता की भी है कि यहां कुछ लोग अपनी पसंद से आते हैं तो कुछ ऐसे होते हैं जो सिविल सर्विसेज की परीक्षाओं के अभ्यस्त होते हैं जिनका पत्रकारिता में आना मुख्य मकसद नहीं होता है. ऐसे में आपको ऐसा लग सकता है कि सामने वाले की जानकारी का स्तर आप से ज्यादा है. फिर आप नर्वस हो जाते हैं. आप खुद को किसी से भी कम ना समझें. आप के और सामने वाले के ज्ञान में ज्यादा फर्क नहीं है. ऐसा होता तो आप दोनों एक ही प्लेटफार्म पर नहीं होते. इसलिए बिल्कुल नर्वस न हों और अपने आत्मविश्वास को बनाएं रखें.

इंटरव्यू के समय जब आप से अपने बारे में बताने कहा जाए तो सबसे पहले नाम और जगह का नाम बताएं जहां के आप रहने वाले हैं. इसके बाद प्रारंभिक पढ़ाई से अब तक की शिक्षा के बारे में बताएं. हो सकता है कि इंटरव्यू बोर्ड के लोग इसके बाद भी आप से अपने बारे में ही बताने को कहें. ऐसे में तब आप पत्रकारिता में क्यों आना चाहते हैं, इसके बारे में बताएं. अपने जीवन के निजी पहलुओं पर बात करने से बचें क्योंकि सामने वाला आपके इसके बारे में इच्छुक नहीं होगा.

इंटरव्यू के समय और आगे भी आप का इस प्रश्न से सामना बार-बार होगा  “आप पत्रकार ही क्यों बनना चाहते हैं?” इसलिए ये अच्छा रहेगा कि आप खुद भी ये पहले से ही जान लें कि आप पत्रकार ही क्यों बनना चाहते हैं.

पत्रकारिता के अंदर किस क्षेत्र में काम करना चाहते हैं, इसका भी ध्यान रखें. जिस क्षेत्र को आप इंटरव्यू के दौरान अपनी पसंद बताने वाले हैं उसके बारे में जानकारी जुटा लें. जैसे कि आप भविष्य में खेल पत्रकारिता या फिर राजनीतिक पत्रकारिता में जाने की इच्छा जताने वाले हैं तो इंटरव्यू बोर्ड आपसे उस क्षेत्र की अलग-अलग हालिया गतिविधियों पर सवाल पूछ सकता है. मकसद ये होता है कि आप कितना अपडेट हैं. आप सिर्फ सपने देख रहे हैं या उसे पूरा करने के लिए आप सक्रिय भी हैं. सिर्फ इस इंटरव्यू के लिए ही नहीं अगर आप वास्तव में उस क्षेत्र में कुछ करना चाहते हैं तो उस पर अपनी पकड़ बना लें.

बाकी इंटरव्यू के समय जो पूछा जाए, उसका ही जवाब दें. बातों को गोलमोल घुमाए बिना सीधे जवाब दें.

आगे की मंज़िल के लिए मेरी ओर से सभी को बधाई. कामना है कि भविष्य में आप सभी बहुत अच्छा करेंगे.

Ad-PR GD-PI: Wide and Deep

Saumya Baijal is a 2007 pass out from IIMC, with a Diploma in Advertising and Public Relations. She has worked as a Strategy Planner at Ogilvy and Mather, and in Client Servicing in agencies like Ogilvy and Mather and McCann Erickson. She is currently the Brand Manager at Cisco Systems and runs her own theatre group called Aatish. She is a blogger and keenly critiques and sees the social impact of commercial cinema on society and vice versa. She is also an avid animal lover, and likes making friends with every dog she finds!

The first time I set foot in the IIMC campus to pick up my admission form, I decided I wanted to study here. A time when Mass Communication seemed like a flux of many ideas, I remember having filled up forms for English Journalism, Radio and Television Journalism and Advertisng and Public Relations. I had always wanted to be a journalist. Apparently the universe, IIMC and destiny thought I’d make a better advertising professional. But, it was to just study at IIMC that made me fill all three forms. Just to want to have the opportunity maybe, of penning this post don someday.

So, what is it that helped me through? It was knowledge. Knowing my interest area, understanding well, what there was to the career I planned to choose. The entrance exam provides ample opportunity for you exhibit your writing skills, and creativity, but its the GD and PI that really test your knowledge, your ability to get bombarded with questions and answer them truthfully and deftly, and how receptive you are to arguments of others. At the same time its about not drowning the others but making your point intelligently.

Group Discussion: The truth of the matter is that everyone in that room is vying for the same seat as you, and will try every trick in the book, and every way that they can think of to outshine you. Don’t let that dent your confidence. In a group discussion, I feel, one should never speak just for the sake of it, to make their voices heard. It is about making an intelligent point related to the discussion that can turn it around. There will be people who will try and drown your voice, but its content that wins. If you have a strong point, and if someone next to you is unnecessary wasting time reiterating a point already made/summarizing for others benefit, politely make your point, and use examples to bridge it together. Personally, I always advocate against making a completely unrelated point in Group Discussions. It just makes it futile. But then it is your own best judgment at the situation.

The Personal Interview: Its really your last lap that you need to cover. Read. Read. Read and then read some more! Be very very clear with the points you make, what you have done, have the complete information in your mind for anything you may say. I remember vividly sharing the fact that I did a lot of theatre and was immensely proud of it, when I was promptly asked to perform, making the washroom my entry point and using the interview area as my stage. Also, I remember being asked the name of the script writer of Rang De Basanti, since we had been talking of popular culture before that.

So, in a nutshell- 1. Know your FACTS 2. Don’t worry. Don’t buckle under pressure 3. If you don’t know something, say you don’t. Don’t try and cover it up. Honestly is always the best way to move. If it is meant to happen, it will. Read loads of Brand Equity, Ads of the World, Agency faqs and so on before the interview. Watch ads with filters. Watch worldwide ads like Superbowl commercials, Cannes Winners. And know your current affairs well! Its all a brand game now. For example, you should have a PoV on the impact on brand Manchester United now that Sir Alex is retiring.

So all the very best! Do well!

IIMCAA Wishes All The Best to Candidates

PHOTO: AGM of IIMCAA, October 14, 2012 at IIMC HQ, New Delhi.

Dear All,

IIMC Alumni Association wishes all the best to the candidates appearing for IIMC Entrance Examination tomorrow & day after tomorrow.

Give your best! Make it!! Wishing all the luck!!!


- Team IIMCAA

गुरू हम आ गए, अब शुरू हो जाएं...

सौरभ द्विवेदी. आईआईएमसी से हिंदी पत्रकारिता की पढ़ाई की 2006-07 में. उसके पहले और बाद में जेएनयू से पढ़ाई की. स्टार न्यूज और लाइव इंडिया से होते हुए नवभारत टाइम्स पहुंचे. फिर तीन बरस दैनिक भास्कर में न्यूज एडिटर रहे. फिलहाल करियर के अगले शो के लिए फुल ड्रेस रिहर्सल कर रहे हैं. सारे टिकट बिक चुके हैं और हूटिंग की सीटियां बैकस्टेज तक सुनाई दे रही हैं.

जब तुम घर से निकलोगे, इस्तरी की हुई कमीज पहने, झोले में अचार, आलू और पूड़ी रखे. सबसे ऊपर कुछ नोट्स और कटिंग रखे. तो माई चलते वक्त गीली आंखों और कुछ कांपते हाथों से माथे पर रोली लगाएगी. साथ में चावल के कुछ दाने होंगे, जो कुछ ही देर में गिर पड़ेंगे. बीज का काम है गिरना, मगर पनपने के लिए सही, जमीन जरूरी है. तुम एक बीज हो, अपार संभवानाओं से भरे, तुम्हें जो जमीन चाहिए, उसे यकीन कहते हैं. क्या कहा, कैसा दिखता है ये, ठीक सामने ही तो खड़ा है संजीदगी का लिहाफ ओढ़े. जब घर से निकलो, तो कनखियों से पिता जी के चेहरे की तरफ देख लेना. यकीन दिख जाएगा. इस यकीन को अपनी जींस की पॉकेट के ऊपर बनी छोटी पॉकेट में सहेजकर रख लेना. इतना सहेज कर कि पैंट फटकारा जाए, खूंटी से गिर पड़े या धुलकर भी आ जाए, तो भी ये वहीं अड़ा खड़ा बैठा रहे.

आईआईएमसी और उसके बाद जिस जंगल में तुम्हारा बसेरा होगा, वहां ये यकीन के बीज बहुत काम आएंगे. पहला यकीन, जो बलबन के वक्त की याद दिलाते लाल पत्थरों वाली दिल्ली से प्रेरित आईआईएमसी की इमारत को देखकर आता है. वह है कि आओ और इन पत्थरों के ओसारे के भीतर कुछ जिज्ञासाएं, कुछ खिलखिलाहटें, तेज बहसें, यारबाजी और उन सबसे बढ़कर गर्म लहू में पकते ख्याल बिखेर दो.

मगर यकीन तो मिड्ल क्लास की बचत की तरह ही बचा है. कहां कितना खर्च करें. नई टीशर्ट, जूते, फोन या फिर किताबें... सब की सब तो अपने हिस्से का इन्स्टॉलमेंट मांगने में लगी रहती हैं. अकादमिक दुनिया की बात करें, तो यहां भी मंगतों की कमी नहीं. पहला यकीन खुद पर करो. अपने होने पर. अपने परिवेश पर. अपनी समझ पर. और इसको बयां करने वाली अपनी जबान पर तो सबसे ज्यादा. मैंने पहले भी कई बार दोहराया है. फिर से वही मंतर पढ़ रहा हूं. जब तुम दिल्ली आते हो, तो तुम्हारे साथ सिर्फ तुम नहीं, एक जमीन का टुकड़ा, एक मोहल्ला, एक कस्बा आता है. इसमें पप्पू गुड़िया वाले की गली आती है, जहां कंधे से कंधे टकराता है और चूड़ियों, झिलमिल झालर और बिंदी, पाउडर की खरीद चल रही है. कुछ गीला सा बजरिया आता है, कहीं बिरयानी, तो कहीं टेलर गली के साथ. घंटाघर आता है, शहर के तमाम छुटभैयों और पान की बड़ी दुकानों को समेटे. एक राजनैतिक और सामाजिक समझ आती है. एक जबान आती है. उसे वहीं प्लेटफॉर्म पर समोसे के दोने में छोड़ मत आना. साथ लाना और सहेजना. क्योंकि तुम जहां रहते हो, वही तो देस है. तुम्हारा देस. और ये सब पत्थरदिल दिल्ली में कवायदें चलती हैं न. ये बिल, वो बिल, फलाने राजनियक की यात्रा, ढिकाना घोटाला, रैली, स्कीम और ऐसा ही तमाम रायता. ये उसी देस के नाम पर बघराया जाता है.

तो जब तुम ढाई घंटे के दरमयान अपना तिलिस्म रचो, अपने जवाब गढ़ो, तो इस देस और उसके मुहावरों और उसकी चिंताओं को मत भूलना. जीआईसी के मैदान में किरकिट के दौरान हुई बहस, गुप्ता चाट भंडार में पानी के बताशे खाते वक्त हाथ लगे लिफाफे पर लिखी खबर और डिग्री कॉलेज के सामने टंगी अंगरेजी सिखाने और विदेश भेजने का गुलमोहरी ख्बाव दिखाने वाली होर्डिंग, ये सब एक चाभी ही तो हैं, तुम्हारे वक्त की महीन दुनिया वाली पेटी को खोलने के लिए.

यकीन रखो, अपनी जबान, समझ और भाषा पर और फिर उस पर मुलम्मा चढ़ाओ, उन तमाम रेडियो बुलेटिन, न्यूज चैनल की बहसों, पत्रिकाओं, अखबारों के कमोबेश आयातित से ख्यालों का, प्रतियोगियता दर्पण नुमा मैगजीनों का, जिनसे तुमने तथ्य और कुछ तर्क भी जुटाए हैं. तब जो जवाब तैयार होगा, वो अभिजन भी होगा और भीतर भदेसपन लिए भी.

मेरी चिंता ये नहीं है कि दाखिला होगा या नहीं. यहां नहीं होगा, तो कहीं और होगा, बशर्ते यकीन के बीज बचाकर रखे गए हों. चिंता उसके बाद की है. जब एक लाठी, एक पोटरी और एक पेप्सी के उखड़ चुके स्टिकर वाली बोतल, जिसमें पानी भरते ही रहना है, लिए तुम सफर पर निकलोगे.

मिट्टी कभी इतनी पथरीली होगी, कि लगेगा, कहां इतने घाम पर पैर जलाए फिर रहे हो. कभी इतनी पोली, कि लगेगा मेरे गुलाबी आभा वाले पैर के नाखूनों को ये कैसा नजर का टीका लग गया कीचड़ का, कभी इतनी सुंदर कि लगेगा, बस अब यहीं टिककर सुस्ता लिया जाए. मगर ये जंगल रुकने नहीं देता. रफ्तार जिंदगी को जिलाए रखेगी और रुके तो खरपतवार बन जाओगे हमेशा के लिए.

तो बड़ी तैयारी पत्रकारिता के इस अरण्य में घुसने से पहले जरूरी है. कई बार लगेगा कि गुम गए. अंधेरा अपने साथ आवाजें लेकर आएगा. हवा हिलेगी, तो लगेगा कि चौंपियारी बखरी वाला भूत आखिर सामने ही आ गया. खुद अपनी सांस पराई लगेगी. ऐसे में फिर यकीन का मंतर पढ़ना है.

ये जो देस है, इस जंगल के परे एक नए सिरे से तुम्हारे इंतजार में है. कि वो लाठी हवा में घुमाता, बेपरवाह सा दिखने वाला, मगर बेहद संजीदा आएगा और जब जंगल की कहानियां सुनाएगा, तो उसमें हम होंगे.

असल में सारी लड़ाई तो यहीं आकर ठहर सी जाती है न. हमें अब न फूला रानी चाहिए, न मयूरध्वज जैसे राजकुमार. हमें तो बूंचा कुत्ता, चंदनपुर गांव, रामदेई जिजी, सोबरन कक्का और उनके सामने बदलते खेतों की सीरत की कहानी चाहिए. हमें तो बजरिया, तालाब और स्टेशन रोड के तपते किस्से चाहिए. और इन किस्सों को तुम ही तो सुनाओगे, जो उन सड़कों पर जून की सख्त आवारा दोपहरों में भटके हो. तो मसला सारा ये है कि देस की बात करने के लिए तुम तमाम औजारौं की पहचान रखते हो या नहीं. पहचान क्योंकि ये हैं तुम्हारे पास. उस चमत्कारी शमशीर की तरह, जो खुद तुम्हें भी नहीं पता कि तुम्हारी पीठ पर खुंसी है और पीछे से कमीज के भीतर हाथ डालते ही, यकीन के साथ, बाहर निकल आएगी.

आओ कि इस जंगल में टंगे कुछ पिशाच, ब्रह्मराक्षस, भूखे जानवर, यूं ही फिरते बनरोज तुम्हारा इंतजार कर रहे हैं. आओ कि कुछ तुम्हारे जैसे ही प्यास से ताकत पाते यात्री यहां भटक रहे हैं, पड़ाव कर रहे हैं. आओ कि जंगल के उस पार बैठे कुछ बूढ़े तुम्हें अपना झोला देकर मुक्त होने की कगार पर हैं. इनकी आंखों में देखना, तुम्हें वही बाप वाली आस दिखेगी.

...आओ क्योंकि नहीं आए, तो तमाम जिंदगी सालती रहेगी ये फांस, कि हम आवाज होते हुए भी फुसफुसाते ही रह गए...

तुम्हारी आवाज की शुरुआती तराश के लिए कुछ लोग अपने तानपुरे के तार कसते, लकड़ी के हथौड़ों की पॉलिश निहारते बैठे हैं. आओ और उनसे कहो, गुरू हम आ गए, अब शुरू हो जाएं...

To Ace the IIMC RTV Entrance Exam

Krittika De graduated with English Honors from Loreto College in 2012. She is 3rd topper of Radio & Television Department, 2012-2013 batch. Krittika is working with Asian News International (ANI).

Only 4 days left before the D day and too much of advice and counseling before one of the most important days in your life will not do much good. Or so I believe.  Increasing of heartbeat, nervous tantrums and bouts of frustration are some of the common symptoms that you all must be going through. But the mantra is “DO NOT PANIC”. Cracking IIMCEE is not a Herculean task and people who crack it are not super humans. Focus, dedication and love for news are sure to get you the ticket to this premier Institute.

 By now, all of you must have brushed up your current affairs, about the different happenings around you. Yes, I feel a little sorry for you as a lot did happen this year, which might make an appearance in this years’ entrance, so make sure you don’t miss out on anything.  While answering the broad questions, you need to be crisp, to the point and clear; beating about the bush never helps!!  They generally ask you for your opinion, and if you are confused, your answer will obviously reflect the same. So for all the current happenings, make sure you can take your own stand.

Reading of newspapers is a must, preferably more than one and this is one thing that will never change, even after you get a job. But that doesn’t mean, you’ll mug up the news and vomit them on your answer scripts. Nah.…Journalism does not work that way!  Try to compare and analyze the angles taken by the different newspapers and their editorials, and write your own article with your viewpoints. Will give you practice as well as improve your writing skills.

After the long questions, there will be a segment that will require you to write short notes on personalities, stating as to why they have currently been in news. Let me tell you, this is the most scoring part; because if you know your current affairs and GK correctly, you might as well score full marks here. And for RTV aspirants, it’s important that you track news bulletins to stay abreast of news and issues. Watch a little bit of “The Devil’s Advocate”, a little of “The News Hour”, and some of “We the People”; will give you an idea  about different political parties, HR groups and civil society’s take on a particular issue and help to broaden your perspective.

Lastly, and most importantly, BE CONFIDENT. Have faith in yourself and your skills. Because as Bill Cosby very rightly said,
“In order to succeed, your desire for success should be greater than your fear of failure.”

So, do away with all those fear and anxiety bugs, relax and rip the entrance, because trust me every bit of your effort will be totally worth it. IIMC is beautiful and you’ll love it here!!

Best of luck, mates! Hope to see you guys soon in the industry. Cheers J

Ad-PR Entrance: Keep Your Eyes & Ears Open

Abhishek Malhotra is topper of Ad-PR, 2012-13 Batch & got placed with HCL Technologies.

Content is king.

There is no “basically”.

Gadhe ho aap (sic).

These are a few in a long list of quotes that will be repeated in IIMC as a new academic session commences. With “Advertising and Public Relations” falling under the realm of integrated marketing communication, a plethora of subjects and learning is on offer for the 70 odd students who clear its written test, the group discussion and the personal interview.

If you have done any of the following over the past few months, there is no reason for you to worry.

A. Have you been watching television?
If you have attended the call for the “nation’s need to know”, seen Jaggu dada’s late night sermons for a vitality herb, heard tag lines as you switch been channels, viewed a couple of advertisements or observed that tony stark’s drive is an Audi R8, you will know enough about questions that require you to critique on media.

B. Are You TwitFace?
If you have been YouTube-ing, Tweet-ing, Facebook-ing, you would be aware of what’s happening in the online space and what people are talking/laughing/commenting/sharing/abusing about. Just follow Facebook pages like afaqs, Mad over Marketing, Ogilvy, social@ogilvy among others to know what advertisers and marketers are up to. If you can, then search for some episodes of “Brand Equity” on YouTube.

C. Have you read_________?
If you have been reading books or magazines or newspapers or articles on the internet or tried to read the newspaper on which hawkers keep pakodas, you would be able to sit through the length of the written test and apply yourself well. This would also help in the group discussion.

You don’t have to be a voracious reader to be aware of what’s happening around you.

I’m not sure if this has been of much help but keeping your eyes and ears open to all forms of communication and messaging around you will help you sail through the entrance examination.

All the best and look forward to the 9 month long party.

Your Best Help is 'YOU'

Anwesha Ambaly is 6th topper of English Journalism, 2012-2013. Love Social Work and Anchoring. Currently, working with OTV, leading 24 X 7 news channel of Odisha, as a Reporter.

Well, the question of ‘How to Start’ will always irk you. Since, you are setting out for a great mission that is equally competitive and challenging, you need to plan and then prepare, or else despite knowing to swim you will end up drowning in the ocean of news and information.

On the first thought of appearing for IIMC written examination, the first issue is keeping track of all the latest happenings around you in the past one year simultaneously decide on the significance of the news so that you gather as much as information as possible of the important happenings.

There is no substitute to reading. Go through as many as opinion-based magazines and editorials of various newspapers, this will immensely help you form your personal opinion and analyse issues on a wider frame.

Maintain a diary of events where you can jot down information on various issues and topics collected from various mediums. This will be extremely helpful two-three days before the examination; it will help you in quick revisioning and thereby save time before the exam.

While writing, your answers need not be ornamental or floral, stick to to-the-point theory providing as much as facts and fundamentals as possible.

Before concluding, seeking help and suggestions is fine but remember, at the end your best help is YOU. If you are confident and if you are focused on your goal, you will crack it easily. Opinions vary; many people will give many ideas but you have to settle on your comfort zone and prepare accordingly, just be sure of what you are doing keeping in background the thought, ‘There is no shortcut to success’.


Best of luck!

How to Make a Difference

Saloni Seth is 5th topper of Advertising & Public Relations, 2012-13 batch. Firmly believes creative people don't do different things they do things differently. Loves marketing and brand management. Currently working with HCL Technologies as Senior Executive Brand Team.

Tick tock Tick tock! As the countdown begins for the IIMC entrance exam, the anxiety over one’s performance in the exam also increases. But this exam is not like other exams where you have to memorize 100 pager formulas or theorems to solve. This exam requires cool and relaxed mind which can accommodate rooms for creativity and fresh ideas.

I would share three simple mantras which would help you to score well.

#1 BE An AD GURU: 
Critique every latest ad which are in air for past 1-2 month. Write what you liked in it and what not. Suggest some alternative taglines to the ads shown. Involve your friends and family member in this activity and share your ideas with them. Enjoy the fun of being an AD Critic.

#2 BECOME BREAKING NEWS: 
Be faster than any XYZ newspaper or news channel. Try to be abreast with the happenings around and be updated with recent laws and sections. And take proud in updating all current news in FB first. ;)
In entrance test, try to connect each and every answer with the latest happenings.

#3 BE YOURSELF: 
Listen to your favorite songs and watch all-time favorite movies. Let your imaginations take new shapes.   And most importantly carry your personal charisma, wittiness and intelligence into the entrance hall. This is what makes your answer different from rest of the crowd.

With these three mantras, I am sure you will come off with flying colors!!!


Wish you luck. J

रॉकेट साइंस का इम्तिहान नहीं, बस आत्मविश्वास और मौलिकता ज़रूरी

सुमित सुन्द्रियाल हिंदी पत्रकारिता विभाग के 2012-13 बैच के टॉपर और इस बैच में सभी विभागों के सम्मिलित दूसरे टॉपर हैं. कैंपस प्लेसमेंट से आईबीएन7 पहुंच रहे हैं.

साथियों! आप लोगों की प्रवेश परीक्षा की तैयारियां ज़ोरों पर होंगी. अब तो परीक्षा के लिए समय भी काफ़ी कम रह गया है. ऐसे में आपको क्या करना चाहिए, क्या नहीं, इसका पता चल गया होगा. अगर इस ब्लॉग को आप सब नियमित रूप से पढ़ रहे हैं फिर तो ये अच्छे से समझ ही गये होंगे.

अगर आपने पत्रकारिता को अपने कार्यक्षेत्र के बतौर पूरे मन से चुना है तो मेरी नज़र में आईआईएमसी से बेहतर विकल्प कोई नहीं है क्योंकि यहां सीखने और सिखाने वालों के बीच सर्वश्रेष्ठ माहौल व तालमेल उपलब्ध होता है. इसका अनुभव संस्थान में पहले दिन से लेकर आखिरी दिन तक होता है. तमाम मुद्दों पर अलग-अलग विचारों को कक्षा में एक साथ टकराते देखना और कक्षा से बाहर उन्हीं का आपस में बेहतरीन मेल-जोल इसी संस्थान में दिख सकता है.

बहरहाल, मुख्य विषय पर लौटना ज़रूरी है. अगर आपको वास्तव में पत्रकारिता करनी है और इसके लिए आप तत्पर हैं तो अख़बार, समाचार चैनल, पत्रिकाओं, न्यूज़ वेबसाइट्स- सोशल साइट्स से आप नियमित रूप से जुड़े होंगे. और अगर किसी ने बिना इन सबकी परवाह किए ही आईआईएमसी में आने की उम्मीद पाली हुई है तो वह खुद को ही अंधेरे में रखे हुए है. यह निहायत ज़रूरी है कि आप कम से कम पांच-छह महीनों से समाचार-सूचनाओं के इन सभी स्रोतों के संपर्क में रहे हों क्योंकि इससे आपके लिए राह कुछ हद तक आसान है.

लेकिन जो अभी तक भी पूरी तैयारी से दूर रहे हैं उन्हें भी ज़्यादा घबराने या निराश होने की ज़रूरत नहीं है. आईआईएमसी की प्रवेश परीक्षा कोई रॉकेट साइंस का इम्तिहान नहीं है. अगर कम से कम पिछले दो महीनों की कोई भी करेंट अफ़ेयर्स की पत्रिका पर आप अभी भी निगाहें डाल देते हैं तो कुछ ताज़ातरीन मुद्दों की सामान्य जानकारी आपको मिल जाएगी. यह इस लिहाज़ से मददगार होगी कि आप उनसे जुड़े सवालों का सामना करने की स्थिति में होंगे और फिर उस पर अपने विचार भी आप अच्छे से दे सकते हैं.

मसलन कर्नाटक विधानसभा चुनाव के नतीजों पर विश्लेषण या फिर कोयला ब्लॉक आवंटन घोटाला और उसकी सीबीआई जांच को लेकर चल रहे विवाद पर जानकारी किसी भी समाचार पत्रिका में मिल जाएगी, इंटरनेट पर सर्च करेंगे तो ख़बरों में दिख जाएगी. लेकिन इस बात का भी ख़ास तौर पर ध्यान रखें कि सिर्फ़ राजनीतिक ख़बरें ही पत्रकारिता नहीं हैं बल्कि आपको अर्थ जगत की ख़बरों पर भी ध्यान देना होगा. इनमें सबसे अहम है इस साल पेश हुआ आम बजट. 15वीं लोकसभा का यह आखिरी पूर्ण बजट था. इसलिए आपके लिए ज़रूरी है कि इस पर आर्थिक विश्लेषकों के विचार जरूर पढ़ें. साथ ही बजट की कुछ महत्वपूर्ण घोषणाओं की भी सामान्य जानकारी ज़रूर रखें. सरकार की महत्वाकांक्षी परियोजनाओं और उनके बारे में लोगों की राय की समझ रखना भी आवश्यक है.

भारतीय सिनेमा के सौ साल पूरे हुए हैं. इसलिए इससे जुड़े कुछ महत्वपूर्ण बिंदुओं पर अपनी सूचनाओं और विचारों को और दुरुस्त करें। वर्तमान समय में भारतीय फ़िल्मों की स्थिति, उनमें गंभीर सामाजिक मुद्दों की उपस्थिति और महिलाओं के चित्रण से जुड़े प्रश्न हो सकते हैं. ऐसे सवालों का मकसद आपकी समझदारी को परखना होगा. इसके अलावा ऑस्कर को लेकर भारतीय फ़िल्मकारों के मोह से जुड़े सवाल पर भी ज़रूर ध्यान दें. प्राण साहब को हाल ही में दादा साहेब फ़ाल्के पुरस्कार से सम्मानित किया गया है. इसे भी ज़रूर याद रखें. इस साल की चर्चित फ़िल्मों और पुरस्कारों को भी जान लें. अलग-अलग क्षेत्र की चर्चित हस्तियों के बारे में मोटा-मोटी जानकारी रखना तो बहुत ही जरूरी हैं.

इनके अलावा कुछ प्रमुख राष्ट्रीय-अंतर्राष्ट्रीय मुद्दों में पाकिस्तान चुनाव के नतीजे, चीन में नेतृत्व परिवर्तन, पाकिस्तान और चीन के साथ हालिया सीमा विवाद, सरबजीत की मौत, आम चुनाव के समय पूर्व होने की संभावना, दिल्ली गैंगरेप– आंदोलन और मीडिया के प्रभाव को भी समझ लें. इनके अलावा एक बड़ा मुद्दा रहा है- अभिव्यक्ति की स्वतंत्रता और राजद्रोह का कानून. पिछले साल सबसे ज़्यादा चर्चित रहा ये मुद्दा. सबने ही अपनी राय इस पर खपाई थी. तो उम्मीद है कि आप सबकी भी इस पर अब तक कुछ बुनियादी समझ बन गई होगी. बाकी खेल और मनोरंजन से जुड़ी बड़ी ख़बरों और विवादों पर भी ज़रूरी तौर पर नज़र डाल लें.

अब प्रवेश परीक्षा के सबसे महत्वपूर्ण पहलू पर ध्यान दें. यह है आपकी लेखन क्षमता. जितना ज़रूरी मुद्दों की समझ है, उतना ही ज़रूरी उनको सही से पेश करने की कला भी है. मेरा ये मतलब नहीं कि आप अपने जवाब में बेहद कलात्मक या रचनात्मक हो जाएं. इसकी कोई आवश्यकता नहीं है. जितने साधारण और स्पष्ट रूप से आप अपने विचारों को रखेंगे उतनी ज़्यादा संभावनाएं बनेंगी.

यह भी ज़रूरी नहीं कि आप ज्ञान के महासागर हों. अगर आप हैं भी तो आपके लिए बेहतर है. वैसे भी इसके लिए आपको कक्षा में भरपूर समय मिलेगा. लेकिन अगर आप ये सोच रहे हैं कि आप बहुत कम जानते हैं तो यह ज़रूर याद रखें कि आपको जितना भी आता है, उसमें गलती न हो. मतलब सीधी सी बात है- आप तथ्यों को सही रखें, चाहे जितना भी जानते हों. इसी को ध्यान में रखते हुए जवाब लिखें. तथ्यों की ग़लत जानकारी सारी मेहनत पर मिट्टी-पानी फेर सकती है. जवाब के लिए शब्द सीमा तय रहती है इसलिए इसका सबसे ज़्यादा ध्यान रखें. अपने जवाब को इतना भी विस्तार न दें कि शब्द सीमा के साथ ही समय सीमा भी हाथ से निकल जाए. इसलिए ‘सब्जेक्टिव’ सवालों के जवाब में भी ‘ऑब्जेक्टिविटी’ रखें. विचारपरक सवालों पर इमोशन न हो जाएं, रैशनल रहें. पक्ष-विपक्ष सबकी बात बताएं और आप किस पक्ष के साथ हैं, इस पर स्पष्ट तर्क दें.

लिखते समय भाषा पर भी ध्यान दें. बिल्कुल शुद्ध-साहित्यिक भाषा का प्रयोग ज़रूरी नहीं है. अगर आप लिख सकते हैं तो अच्छा है और नहीं लिख सकते तो भी समस्या नहीं है. बस ज़रूरी है वाक्यों की सही बनावट और वर्तनी की शुद्धता. ये सबसे ख़ास भूमिका निभाती हैं. अगर आपको कुछ खास शब्दों से ज़्यादा प्यार है तो ध्यान रखें उसका ज्यादा इस्तेमाल नुकसान भी पहुंचा सकता है. जवाब को पैराग्राफ़ बनाकर लिखें. मसलन, अगर दो सौ शब्दों में उत्तर लिखना है तो तीन या चार पैराग्राफ़ ज़रूर बनाएं.

अंत में सबसे महत्वपूर्ण बात. आईआईएमसी में प्रवेश पाने के लिए सबसे ज़्यादा ज़रूरी है आत्मविश्वास और सीखने की चाहत. इसका पता प्रवेश परीक्षा में आपके जवाबों से लेकर इंटरव्यू में आपकी प्रस्तुति से चल जाता है. ये ज़रूरी नहीं है कि आपमें असाधारण प्रतिभा हो तभी आप आईआईएमसी में आ सकेंगे. साधारण प्रतिभा के दम पर भी आप यहां प्रवेश पा सकते हैं क्योंकि प्रतिभाओं को असाधारण बनाने का काम यहां होता है. इसलिए ज़रूरी है कि अपनी मौलिकता को ही आप पेश कीजिए. किसी विशेषज्ञ की राय या विश्लेषण को ज़रूर पढ़िए पर उसे अंतिम सत्य मानकर अपना मत लीजिएगा. उस पर विपरीत पक्ष को भी पढ़िए. इससे आपमें मौलिक विचारों का विकास होगा.


हार्दिक शुभकामनाएं.

How To Crack IIMC’s Entrance Test

Nikita Arora of RTV, 2012-13 batch is working with Headlines Today. She was President of the Organising Committee of IIMC Media Fest, VOX POP 2013.

It’s almost crazy to find aspirants desperately seeking an answer to these million  dollar questions ‘How do I crack IIMC’s entrance test?’ and ‘How do I prepare for it?’ Although I hoped the previous blogs would have helped and satisfied you by now, here you are reading my piece. And I know exactly why…

Anxiety- This is what is making you do so. Do away with it asap. Remember, anxiety could either make or break you. It is JUST another entrance exam. Trust me. IT IS NOT REALLY THAT A BIG DEAL* (*- terms and conditions’ )

Q & A is the soul of this profession so I’ve compiled some FAQs for you:

1) How did you prepare for RTV’s exam?

Last year, I had applied only for RTV and had no clue whatsoever of how the question paper was going to look like. All I knew was that I’d been following news and that kept me hopeful and confident. So yeah, if you’ve followed news on a regular basis, nothing like it! You’ll have fun attempting the questions but if you’ve not, chances are that you might panic. So read up as much as possible. DO NOT MUG UP, it’s a complete mismatch to your chosen field. Understanding of the subject is must. And since you’ve applied for RTV, it is expected that you follow news on TV regularly!

2) What shows, magazines would you recommend the aspirants?

Me suggesting shows or magazines now, especially at a time when the exam is just a week away, will hold no good. You may tend to panic and I certainly don’t want to put you in a fix. Also there is no hard and fast rule so believe in what ever you’ve read and watched! Just make sure the source is credible. 

3) What is the exam going to be like?

It will be an interesting paper to solve, with some analytical and descriptive questions. And yeah not to forget our personalities! If you know them, half the battle is won!

4) Any other tip?

Time management is quite crucial as you might find the paper lengthy. If your writing speed is good, don’t bother! But if not, you’ll have to buck up.

I don’t know if this will help you in any way but what will (for sure) is the law of attraction. If you believe that you can crack the exam, nothing can stop you. For what you think, is what you manifest. So have no doubts, remain optimistic and give it your best shot! Cheers….!

IIMC- You are Not Just Taught, but Trained

Kunwar Abhishek Bhagat belongs to 2011-12 batch of English Journalism, Amravati Campus. He is working with Zee News as Assistant Producer. Kunwar is Secretary of IIMC Alumni Association.

English Journalism offered by Indian Institute of Mass Communication is one of the best and popular courses. Better infrastructure, well updated library and above all the Rank. IIMC is a place where you are not only taught; rather you are trained being journalist.

For clearing the entrance one should be with the news, means one should be always updated with the news, current events happening globally, in short rather, I would say ‘one should have nose for News. Stick to the news, start reading and evaluate yourself where you fit.’

IIMC entrance constitutes of two phases viz. written test and Personal Interview. For written test start reading newspapers, various competition magazines available in the market.

Important Topics that would help you in the written test are:
•       IPL 2013
•       Sarabjit
•       Increase in the rate of rapes in India
•       2014 Elections
•       Afzal Guru
•       Kasab
•       MP Elections
•       Pawan Bansal’s bribery case
•       Justice J.S. Verma
•       Boxer Vijender Singh issue
•       17th Dec Protest in Delhi against rape
•       ZEE and Jindal controversy
•       Justice Katju

Be ready to face the challenge and always accept what you believe and write that in the examination, because at IIMC, they are not expecting one to be perfect. But one should have capability of being perfect.

No matter after selection in IIMC, which centre is allotted, as IIMC itself is a brand and trust me, I am a Pass out from the Pioneer batch of 2011-12 from IIMC Amravati, and I am very well enjoying the status of being IIMCIAN.

Take It Easy Folks :)

Divya Sathyanarayanan of Radio & Television Journalism Department is topper of entire 2012-13 batch among all departments. She is presently working as a Correspondent at The Economic Times.

At the outset, I’m not here to give you any kind of ‘Gyan’- what I did, what you should read, what you should do, this that etc; all of which you know and is already out there.

I can very well understand the pressure which you all aspirants might be going through; with the entrance exam just 7 days away.  So to keep things simple, here are some pointers to help you say ‘All Izz Well’ after the exams.

Firstly, whatever you know, know it the best. It is not possible to know everything happening in this world. But be aware of the important happenings and the key people at the centre of it. So that when you write, you are sure of what you write.

Secondly, form a sound opinion about the important happenings and defend it with facts. Don’t give a chance for anyone to question your opinion.

Thirdly, knowing the prominent people who make news (someone who died or won some award or is the face of a controversy) helps, as the last question in the entrance exam usually deals with this.

Fourthly, one of your favorites– Digital Media, usually figures in some or the other way in the question paper. So, know what’s hot and what’s happening in the medium.

Fifthly, and the last one, don’t beat around the bush. Try to keep the key points in the beginning of the answer. Make the impact in the first few sentences itself.

These are just a few things that will help you get through to your dream course at IIMC.

One thing I would like to say, IIMC is all about enjoyment. But these nine months is the only time for you to learn all about the industry and what goes into it.

Remember, there will be thousands of journalism passouts like you waiting to enter the industry. In this rat race, you have to be the BEST to standout from the rest. But don’t worry, IIMC will surely bring out the best in you.

So to sum it up: Don’t Stress, Be confident of what you know and present it in the best possible way.


All the Best Folks !!

Ples Dnt Cum to Rite da IIMC tst

Gaurav Raghuvanshi (1996-97 English Journalism Program at IIMC New Delhi), started his career as a stringer for the Times of India in Lucknow while still in school. He joined IIMC soon after graduation and was the topper of his batch. He started his formal career with the Press Trust of India where he spent time both on the desk and reporting on the economy and defense. He covered the Kargil war for PTI. He then worked with Business Standard and the Hindu Business Line as a Special Correspondent in charge of coverage in Gujarat. In 2006, he joined Dow Jones Newswires in New Delhi covering macro economy. After a stint with Bloomberg in Delhi, he moved to Singapore in 2010 with the combined bureau of Wall Street Journal and Dow Jones Newswires. He now covers aviation in Southeast Asia across different platforms of WSJ. He also writes food blogs for WSJ Online. In his spare time, he volunteers for the Worldwide Fund for Nature (WWF) or goes airplane spotting at Singapore’ Changi airport or at some Indian Air Force base. He is married with two daughters aged 7 and 5.

“The cream rises to the top, and so does the cum.”

Words of wisdom from Mr. X to a bunch of ladies and a couple of us at the exam center in Lucknow in May 1996. I had seen Mr. X visit the Times of India Lucknow once, which is why I had decided to walk over to wish him before the test. Needless, because I think I was an unnecessary irritant.

“I am debating whether to take up an offer from Times to cover UP politics or join IIMC,” our man said, before writing the test. Of course, his audience gasped in awe. And here I was, writing on what school kids could do to protect the environment and interviewing a National Defence Academy topper.

A few weeks later, I bumped into him again at the Times office. The editor had asked him to buzz off, but he told me that he had topped the IIMC entrance. Well, that must be with the 000th rank because his name wasn’t on the list and he isn’t my course-mate.

Why tell this story? Because I think it clearly portrays the reasons why he didn’t make it. Too much gas. Or, incorrect use of words (‘scum’ is what he should have used). He either didn’t know the difference, or was foolishly trying to impress the ladies. Either way, that’s not the best way to approach the test.

It’s too late for me to advise anyone on how to prepare. So, I’d highlight a few things that you need to keep in mind while writing the test. But before we start, if you can readily understand and relate to the headline of this piece, please follow the advice and don’t waste your time!

1. I write poetry, I can be a good journalist: Wrong. Journalism is more about having the ‘nose for news’ and not about being able to use flowery language to impress. Avoid that in the test. Of course, correct usage of words is important, as illustrated by Mr X’s example. There’s a question on commonly misused words. Google that and you will come across enough examples of similar sounding words or those that are incorrectly used.

2. More is better. Definitely not. IIMC doesn’t give you extra sheets of paper for a reason. Brevity is very important for a journalist. Space is at a premium in newspapers. Even in online platforms, you need to bear in mind short attention spans. You might have proof that the chief minister was leading the crowds in a riot. But if you tell that in 50th paragraph, sorry, you’d have lost me by then. Come to the point directly.

3. Awareness: Journalists are not bursting with knowledge; they are more aware. The test has GK questions that simply try to test if you have been following the news.

4. Adjectives and Cliches: Do NOT use them. Simple. Adjectives have no use or place in a news copy and so they can’t have any place in the test paper. Also, avoid repeating words. Here goes a quiz: can you spot the obvious mistakes in point number 3 above??? Let me answer: ‘Bursting with’ is a cliché. Better say ‘Journalists are not the most knowledgeable people..’ Also, the word ‘test’ can be replaced at one place by ‘exam’.

5. Please don’t use SMS language. It has no place in good writing. So, my headline above is an example of how not to write.

6. Awareness about the profession: You will invariably find one question about a journalist who’s recently been in the news. If I were to evaluate the test papers, I’d give a lot of weight to that question.

7. Show, don’t tell: If you as a journalist, or as an IIMC aspirant tell me something without backing it up, I won’t take you seriously. “Mr. xxxx is a very bad, corrupt man who deserves to go to hell.” Write that, and you can’t be a journalist. If he is bad, I don’t need you to say that, show me how he’s bad or corrupt. If he was convicted of a crime, say that. Leave the reader to make his or her judgment on whether the guy was bad or not.

8. Give Opinion only when specifically asked for. There are a few questions where they ask you to give your opinion. Say what you want to, by all means, but back it up with solid reasons. And, say it very clearly, without repeating words or points and without adjectives.

We look forward to welcome the serious journalism practitioners among you into the profession.


All the best! 

It All Starts with a Why; Confusion is Good!

Saurabh Chaturvedi: Graduated in Political Science (Hons) from Hindu College in 2006. After which he studied English Journalism from IIMC, New Delhi, and was placed in Business Standard Newspaper. He had a brief stint there covering India's vibrant telecom sector. As news agency journalism was his priority, he moved to the Press Trust of India, where he was leading the metals, mining and infrastructure coverage, until he was picked up by the Wall Street Journal-Dow Jones Newswires in 2010. He currently tracks the country's energy, commodities, infra sectors. He rants through his blogs on WSJ website on various subjects. His in-depth coverage of the Delhi rape incident, alleged coal scam and world's biggest blackout of 2012 is widely appreciated globally.

When I was in your shoes in April 2006, there were trillions of questions on my head with no easy answers. It's normal to be confused about career plans.

As budding media professionals, it's quite good to have questions but tell you what you and only you have the answers. You would surely get a bunch of suggestions here, but perhaps it's the time to act and may be act now.

I don't think anyone here has a foolproof mantra on "How to crack IIMC test," but perhaps what I would like to tell you is what confusion did I go through and how, if at all, I overcame them.

Confusion

1--Why IIMC? Do I actually want to be a media professional or it's just that everyone is taking the test so I will also take it?

Possible Answer: Most of us don't really plan the IIMC entry. It just happens. And most of us don't have an answer yet to why did they enter this profession.

But once you are in: it's a lovely place. It's a brand for life. Work hard and you would be remunerated well in your respective area of interests.

For me, I never planned to be a journalist. It happened. I got through LLB at DU's CLC twice as well as  Master's in social work and sociology, but perhaps the turning point was my visit to the beautiful Delhi campus and the length (quite short to grab a job) of the course. Not to mention the Indian Institute...tag! I decided to take one step at a time and things just happened and there I am, now a insatiable journalist.

Trust me, this question of why this line haunts everyone at all the times. The grass on the other side is always greener, shiny, sparkling. It has been like this since Adam plucked that apple for Eve.

2-Many IAS/MBA aspirants take it as stop-gap arrangement. So should I also take it and I would prepare for my competitive tests?

Possible Answer: Depends. Most of us get placed within 9 months from August 1 and life takes a different turn. Dedicated souls would still like to stay off placements and focus on their bigger goals in life.

If you are among those dedicated ones, then IIMC can be an obstruction to your plans to prepare for CAT, UPSC etc. If you are so sure about not taking up media as your profession, I would advice you to go for academics and simultaneously prepare for competitive exams. Why to even bother about IIMC. It doesn't really matter guys. Chill. No back-up theory. Academics is far too lucrative and fun a profession and trust me UPSC interview panels may like academicians more than a media professional.

My second appearance for law tests at DU happened after IIMC, because I wanted to do more in life without sacrificing on anything. I even attended a year there while I was working with a leading news agency. But tell you what, the realization soon seeped in-- that in my quest to do everything in life am doing no good to my journalistic career-- and that was the turning. Here I am as a foreign correspondent for the world's biggest media house.

3-Which course to go for at IIMC as most of us at least take two tests. Which course would pay me well later on?

Possible Ans: That truly depends on you. I took EJ and RTV and got through EJ.

I spent some good time thinking that if I eventually become a media professional, what would I like to do. Mass Communication is a big word and a big world in itself.

What's good about IIMC, it has segregated the key mass comm fields and that gives us more clarity to pick one. No wonder, most of the top guys in the media world are from IIMC and the natural connect is good in the professional world. Trust me.

Thanks to IIMC, I had to pick from the four options. I decided for journalism after some self brainstorming. Though, it's all inter-connected and you would be briefly taught about all the courses, in whatever stream you pick.

All the fields have their own charm.

If journalism, do think where you would like to see yourself in times to come? As a good TV reporter like Rajdeep Sardesai/Debang or an awesome print guy like Shekhar Gupta. In the same way, would you like to be part of the colourful Ad world or the PR industry.

All of them pay nicely at a certain point.

Yeahh, better don't compare it with what your MBA fresher friends would be getting though. Initially, they would tend to get more money and have those weekends off. You have to be patient.

For now, focus on the tests first.

4-For EJ, how should I prepare. The clock is ticking away?

Possible Answer: There's no guide/kunji/dukki that shall ensure your passage to IIMC's top courses.

Don't fret over it. I never did.

I was an avid reader of Indian Express, ToI editorials and also had subscribed to the frontline magazine.

So I had an opportunity to learn the rightist (in economic sense) views from IE and ToI and leftist from frontline. It helped.

Though I never practised writing and the first time I grabbed the pen to write those essays was when I was taking the two tests. It would be good if you can practice writing few essays on leading news and views topics of the year and especially last six months. Be balanced in your writing. The "holistic" approach works.

Also, I grabbed some 12 monthly editions of competition magazines and went through their last section on general news and current events.

I actually glanced through them while I was in a bus on way to IIMC on the D day.

You better go through them in advance. That surely helps.

Simply speaking. IIMC tests does not warrant you to study 24x7 and 12 months in advance. If you are a regular newspaper reader (any newspaper), that means 80% of the work is done. Rest just work on bit of balanced writing, respecting the word and time limits.

If you don't have a great vocab, don't bother. IIMC paper-checkers won't give you additional marks for your thesaurus skills.


Cheers and all the best.
Follow me on Twitter: https://twitter.com/journosaurabh

RTV Entrance Exam: Standard Operating Procedure

Rahul Sharma (RTV, 2005-06) currently works as an Assistant Editor with The Content Bureau, an internal and external communication content and design service, at Genesis Burson-Marsteller since 2011. His field of operation include, developing communication strategy, stakeholder engagement, thought leadership, research and public affairs. He also specializes in media training. A graduate of New Delhi based Indian Institute of Mass Communication (IIMC), Rahul comes from a journalism background. During his stint in mainstream media, he has worked with various brands in television, print and online space and specialized in political and business reporting. He has covered, among other things, Union Budget 2007 and 2008, the 2009 general elections, the India-US nuclear deal, and written extensively on media, brands, marketing and advertising sector. He has also produced a documentary on noted architect Laurie Baker. He began his career with Zee Business and then joined India’s first 24-hour parliament channel, Lok Sabha TV as an Anchor-Reporter. Rahul then made a switch to newspaper industry and worked for Mint and Financial Express. He has also worked with the largest marketing communication website, Afaqs! for a brief while. Rahul holds a graduate degree in Economics from Delhi University and has completed online business reporting courses from Donald W Reynolds National Center for Business Journalism, ASU. 

Almost all machines and technical instruments come with a standard set of instructions of how to operate them. The funny thing is that the standard operating procedure applies to entrance exams as well. For exams, where there is no negative marking, the standard operating procedure is to attempt all questions! While this may sound easy, it is not. Let me explain.

So the best case scenario is that you know the answer to every question in the paper. On top of it, you have a flair for writing. You are excited and want to churn out perfect answers. But in your efforts to do so, you realize you have spent more than half the time allotted to answering just one or two questions! And then you are either rushing through others, or end up leaving some. In either case, chances are that despite knowing everything, you could not make it.

When you walk into the examination hall and receive the paper, make sure that you do not cross ‘x’ amount of time per question. You can arrive at this ‘x’ figure by doing simple math. This will help you distill your thoughts and focus on the key messages you want to deliver. And that is the essence of communication. Through this approach, you even out the risks of subjective assessment by increasing the response rate.

Now comes the second part. Ideally, if you have read newspapers all year around and when I say reading newspaper, it means from cover to cover and not just Delhi Times, it will be sufficient. You will know key developments and issues across politics, business, technology, city, sports, etc. What you need to focus on additionally is to understand the medium, its importance and its impact.

Remember, when you apply for a journalism programme you are not going to be evaluated solely on the basis of your general knowledge. Journalism is about putting perspective to developments and decoding the meaning. It is also about understand your own profession and industry. How a story is treated by media organizations? Was it ethical? What are your views on it and what are they based on? So spend time understanding media organizations, their business, treatment of news and how one medium affects the other. Pick up magazines and go online to sites which cover the media. Identify trends and big issues. It will help you develop the understanding required and expected out of you.


Good luck and all the best!