Times of India Group Academic Counsellor Interview: Rounds, Questions and Preparation

What the job involves

An Academic Counsellor in the edtech, media and entertainment sector guides students and parents through course selection, admission processes, and career pathways, often for test prep, skill certifications, or media-related programs. Day to day, they handle inbound and outbound calls, conduct counselling sessions, follow up on leads, and coordinate with sales and academic teams to meet enrolment targets. At established employers like Times of India Group, the role blends student advisory, relationship management, and target-driven sales.

Role and Sector Knowledge

1. 1

   What does an Academic Counsellor do in an edtech or media company?

   Explain that you advise students on courses, clarify doubts, guide admissions, and follow up on leads. Mention coordination with academic and sales teams to meet enrolment goals.

2. 2

   Why do you want to work in the edtech, media and entertainment sector?

   Connect your interest in education and media, mention the growth of online learning and content careers, and show awareness of companies like Times of India Group that operate in this space.

3. 3

   What do you know about the courses or programs offered by companies like Times of India Group?

   Research common offerings such as journalism, digital marketing, film making, or test prep. Talk about how these courses help students build careers in media and entertainment.

4. 4

   How would you explain the difference between a course and a career path to a confused student?

   A strong answer distinguishes short-term skill training from long-term career goals, and shows you can simplify options without overselling.

Practical Scenarios

1. 5

   A parent says the course fee is too high. How do you handle this?

   Acknowledge the concern, highlight return on investment, payment plans, and career outcomes. Do not argue; focus on value and alternatives.

2. 6

   A student is interested but keeps postponing the decision. What do you do?

   Show follow-up strategy: understand the real objection, share success stories or deadlines, and set a clear next step without being pushy.

3. 7

   You have 50 leads and only 10 follow-up calls possible today. How do you prioritise?

   Talk about qualifying leads by intent, urgency, and budget. Mention using CRM tags or a simple priority matrix.

4. 8

   A student completes a course but is unhappy with the placement support. How do you respond?

   Show empathy, gather details, connect them to the right internal team, and follow up. Mention documenting feedback to improve service.

Behavioural and Situational Questions

1. 9

   Tell me about a time you convinced someone to see things your way.

   Use the STAR method. Focus on listening first, presenting benefits, and respecting the other person's decision.

2. 10

   Describe a situation where you had to meet a tight deadline or target.

   Highlight planning, prioritisation, and persistence. Quantify the result if possible, even from college projects or part-time work.

3. 11

   How do you handle rejection or an angry caller?

   Show emotional control, active listening, and a calm tone. Mention that you note the feedback and move on without taking it personally.

4. 12

   Give an example of working in a team to achieve a common goal.

   Pick a college event, group project, or internship. Emphasise your specific contribution and how the team succeeded together.

HR and Motivation

1. 13

   Why should we hire you as an Academic Counsellor?

   Match your communication skills, empathy, and target orientation to the role. Mention any counselling, sales, or teaching experience.

2. 14

   Where do you see yourself in three years in this role?

   Show ambition within the counselling or edtech space, such as senior counsellor, team lead, or specialised career advisor. Avoid saying you want to leave the function.

3. 15

   How do you handle pressure and monthly targets?

   Talk about breaking targets into weekly goals, maintaining a positive routine, and seeking help when needed. Give a real example if possible.

4. 16

   Are you comfortable working six days a week and on weekends?

   Be honest. If yes, confirm your flexibility. If no, explain how you manage time, but understand that edtech counselling often requires weekend availability.