CAT is well designed to test an applicants managerial aptitude, says Mr Kamlesh Sajnani, MD, IMS Learning Center

These are some of the thoughts shared by Mr Kamlesh Sajnani, Managing Director of Indias leading MBA test-prep company IMS Learning. He was speaking to MBA aspirants at the B-school tour organized by Advancegde MBA, a monthly magazine from IMS Learning. When you start thinking about doing an MBA program, first try to answer the basic question: why do you want to do an MBA? It is important to be clear about this basic question. Money cannot be the primary motive, Mr Sajnani said.

Explaining how CAT (Common Aptitude Test) tests the managerial aptitude of students, he added: CAT tests whether you have managerial aptitude or not. For example, test of English language is necessary because as managers you will be communicating with your business associates, and approving crucial legal documents in English. Managers deal with tremendous amount of data, tables and charts. Ability to quickly comprehend the key message is very important, and thats what Data Interpretation section tries to test. Similarly, quantitative skills help in decision making.

Mr Sajnani said that students should not be too worried about getting into B-schools too soon. They should consider gaining some work experience. Students should be in no hurry to get into any B-school. Dont get into just any B-school. Aim for the institute of your choice, and if you dont get there, get some work ex meanwhile. In India today there are lots of opportunities for graduates to work.

He advised students to know their institutes and companies well before taking important education and career decisions. Read the vision, mission and goals of the institutes or companies that you want to join. See if you fit into that culture and goals. Its very important to know what you are getting into, he pointed out.

Delivered in his inimitable style, Mr Sajnanis talk drew loud cheers and claps from over 1,000 aspirants gathered at a North Delhi venue.