Your introduction in the IBPS PO interview is not just a formality. It is the first impression you create, and very often, it becomes the question bank for the panel. Most of the follow-up questions come from the details you provide in your introduction. So it is important to know how to give your introduction in the IBPS PO Interview.
Why the Introduction is Important?
Your introduction helps the panel understand your background, personality, and communication style. It also gives us insights into your confidence level and clarity of thought. Many candidates underestimate this section and either speak too much or give very little information. The right approach is to remain balanced; crisp but informative.
How to give your introduction in the IBPS PO Interview?
One of the first things you’ll be asked in the interview is to introduce yourself. This is a crucial moment to set the tone of your interaction. The introduction should be brief, clear, and structured within two minutes. Start by greeting the panel members politely with “Good morning, Sir/Madam.” Then, proceed with a concise introduction that includes:
- Personal Background: Mention your name, place of origin, and family background. If applicable, share any relevant details such as your parents’ professions or any significant family achievements.
- Education: Clearly state where you completed your schooling and college education. If you have special achievements (like awards or notable projects), highlight them briefly.
- Professional Details: If you have any work experience or relevant skills, share them here. It’s essential to link your skills to banking if possible.
- Hobbies and Interests: While hobbies might seem less important, they offer insight into your personality. Avoid generic answers like “watching TV” or “playing sports.” Instead, relate your hobbies to the banking sector—such as educating others, volunteering, or participating in financial literacy programs.
- Native Place and Local Highlights: If you’re from a place with notable historical or cultural significance, mention it briefly to make your introduction stand out. This can serve as an icebreaker and give you a chance to show your local pride.
Discussing Your Strengths and Weaknesses
Once you’ve introduced yourself, the panel may ask about your strengths and weaknesses. It’s vital to answer these questions with honesty and confidence:
- Strengths: Focus on qualities that are relevant to the banking profession. You could mention skills like attention to detail, communication, problem-solving, and leadership. For example, you might say, “One of my strengths is my ability to stay organized, which helps me manage tasks efficiently even under pressure.”
- Weaknesses: Be honest but strategic when discussing your weaknesses. Instead of mentioning a critical flaw, focus on a minor area you are actively working to improve. For instance, “Earlier, I found it challenging to delegate tasks, but I’ve been working on trusting my team more, and I’ve seen significant improvements.”
A Sample Introduction for IBPS PO Interview
A well-structured sample is given below for your understanding:
“Good morning sir/madam.
I am Rohan Kumar. I was born and brought up in Lucknow.
I come from a business family.
I completed my graduation in Commerce from Banaras Hindu University. I have also completed a certification in financial markets, which helped me build basic knowledge of banking and finance.
My hobbies include reading biographies and playing badminton.”
What you should not include in your Introduction in the IBPS PO Interview?
Candidates often make avoidable mistakes while giving their introduction. The introduction should be polished, brief, and professional. From the panel’s perspective, the following must be strictly avoided:
- Do not narrate your life story.
- Do not explain your gap year unless asked.
- Do not go into percentages, grades, and passing years.
- Do not list all family members.
- Do not justify why you want to join banking in the introduction.
- Do not use casual language or slang.
- Do not speak continuously without pauses.
How long should the Introduction be in the IBPS PO Interview?
The ideal introduction takes between 30 and 45 seconds. In this duration, you should cover all key points without rushing or stretching. If it becomes too long, the panel may lose interest. If it is too short, we may feel that you are underprepared.
Tips to deliver your Introduction confidently
Presenting your introduction confidently is as important as preparing the content itself. The panel observes your body language, clarity, and presence of mind from the very first sentence. These small behavioural cues help us understand your suitability for a customer-facing and responsibility-driven role like a Probationary Officer.
- Maintain natural eye contact: Shift your gaze gently between panel members to show confidence and engagement without appearing forceful.
- Speak at a steady and balanced pace: A moderate pace indicates clarity and control, helping you avoid sounding anxious or rehearsed.
- Maintain a stable and upright posture: Sitting straight with relaxed shoulders signals maturity and prevents distracting movements.
- Practice your introduction aloud: Speaking it out helps you understand your tone, eliminate fillers, and build a natural flow.
- Understand the structure instead of memorising lines: A structured approach keeps your introduction natural and flexible, even if the panel interrupts midway.
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Hi, I’m Tripti, a senior content writer at Oliveboard, where I manage blog content along with community engagement across platforms like Telegram and WhatsApp. With 3+ years of experience in content and SEO optimization related to banking exams, I have led content for popular exams like SSC, banking, railways, and state exams.