Edtech, media and entertainment
Times Internet Academic Counsellor Interview: Rounds, Questions and Preparation
For Academic Counsellor roles at companies like Times Internet
What the job involves
An Academic Counsellor in edtech, media, and entertainment guides students and parents through course selection, career pathways, and enrollment decisions. You act as the bridge between learners and the company's products, using counselling sessions, follow-ups, and data to drive admissions and retention. Daily work includes calls, CRM updates, webinars, and coordinating with marketing and product teams.
Role and Industry Knowledge
- 1
What does an Academic Counsellor do at an edtech company like Times Internet?
Cover the full cycle: lead engagement, needs assessment, product pitch, objection handling, enrollment, and post-sale support. Show you understand it is a revenue-driving role, not just advisory.
- 2
How is edtech in media and entertainment different from pure-play education companies?
Highlight the integration of content, media reach, and entertainment-led learning. Mention how companies like Times Internet leverage their media platforms for user acquisition and brand trust.
- 3
What are the key metrics a counsellor is measured on?
Talk about call volume, connect rate, lead-to-demo conversion, demo-to-enrollment conversion, revenue targets, and retention. Show you know the funnel.
- 4
Name a few popular courses or products in the edtech media space and who they target.
Give examples like test prep, upskilling, or certification programs for students and working professionals. Explain the target audience and why they buy.
Practical Scenarios and Objection Handling
- 5
A parent says the course is too expensive. How do you respond?
Acknowledge the concern, then reframe around ROI, career outcomes, EMI options, and scholarships. Never argue; guide with empathy and data.
- 6
You have 50 leads and only 20 calls to make today. How do you prioritize?
Segment by lead score, recency, and intent signals. Focus on high-intent leads first, then nurture the rest via WhatsApp or email. Mention using CRM filters.
- 7
A student is interested but says they will decide after two weeks. What do you do?
Set a clear follow-up date, offer a limited-time incentive if genuine, and send relevant content to keep them warm. Document the next step in CRM.
- 8
How would you handle a lead who is angry about a previous bad experience with the company?
Listen fully, apologize sincerely, and escalate if needed. Then offer a solution or alternative. Show you can turn a negative into a positive without being defensive.
Behavioural and Situational Questions
- 9
Tell me about a time you convinced someone to do something they were initially reluctant about.
Use STAR format. Focus on your persuasion approach, listening, and the positive outcome. Relate it to counselling or sales.
- 10
Describe a situation where you had to meet a tight target or deadline. How did you manage?
Show planning, prioritization, and resilience. Mention any tools or techniques you used to stay organized and motivated.
- 11
How do you handle rejection or a day with zero conversions?
Demonstrate emotional resilience, self-reflection, and a growth mindset. Talk about reviewing calls, seeking feedback, and staying positive.
- 12
Give an example of how you have used data to improve your performance.
Pick a real instance where you tracked metrics, identified a gap, and adjusted your approach. Quantify the improvement if possible.
HR and Motivation Questions
- 13
Why do you want to work as an Academic Counsellor in the edtech media sector?
Connect your passion for education and media with the role's impact. Mention specific aspects of the sector or company that excite you.
- 14
Where do you see yourself in three years?
Show ambition within the counselling or sales track, such as team lead or senior counsellor. Avoid saying you want to move to a completely different function.
- 15
What are your salary expectations?
Research typical fresher salaries for counsellor roles in edtech. Give a range and mention flexibility based on incentives and growth.
- 16
How do you handle work pressure and long hours during admission season?
Be honest about your coping strategies: time management, breaks, support systems. Emphasize your commitment and ability to stay focused.
Practise the conversation
Much of a Academic Counsellor's job is conversation. Practise a sales call, an upset customer or a negotiation with an AI persona, and get a scored report.
Ready to try it for real?
Take a timed test or talk through a mock interview for this role, then see your scores.
This is practice material for Academic Counsellor roles, written with AI. It is not a list of questions Times Internet or any other company has asked.