Planedge Consultants Junior Engineer Civil Interview Questions and Answers

Q1. Tell About yourself and
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Q1. Basic accounting questions
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Q1. They don't ask anything great just basic easy questions
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Q2. 5 principals of internal audit......
Ans. 
The 5 principals of internal audit are integrity, objectivity, confidentiality, competency, and compliance.
• Integrity: being honest and truthful in all aspects of the audit process

• Objectivity: remaining impartial and unbiased throughout the audit

• Confidentiality: ensuring that sensitive information is protected and kept confidential

• Competency: possessing the necessary knowledge and skills to perform the audit effectively

• ...read more
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Q1. CV overview i.e education and corporate experience
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Q1. What is asset management & real estate sector
Ans. 
Asset management is the professional management of various types of assets, including real estate, to maximize their value and generate returns.
• Asset management involves the strategic planning, acquisition, operation, and disposition of assets.

• Real estate sector refers to the industry that deals with the buying, selling, and management of properties.

• Asset management in the real estate sector focuses on optimizing the v...read more
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Q2. How India Real Estate Sector grow in past
Ans. 
The India real estate sector has experienced significant growth in the past.
• The real estate sector in India has witnessed a boom in the past few decades.

• Rapid urbanization and population growth have fueled the demand for housing and commercial spaces.

• Government initiatives like the introduction of Real Estate Regulatory Authority (RERA) and affordable housing schemes have further stimulated the sector.

• Foreign direct in...read more
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Q3. Company Overview
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Q4. Excel Formula related question
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Q1. Tell me about yourself
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Q1. Tell me something about yourself.
Ans. 
I am a highly motivated and detail-oriented individual with a strong background in consulting.
• I have a Bachelor's degree in Business Administration with a focus on consulting.

• I have completed internships at top consulting firms, where I gained experience in conducting market research and analyzing data.

• I am skilled in problem-solving and have a proven track record of delivering effective solutions to clients.

• I am a str...read more
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Q2. What drives you toward doing something?
Ans. 
I am driven by a desire to make a positive impact and constantly challenge myself.
• I am motivated by the opportunity to make a difference in people's lives.

• I thrive on pushing myself to achieve new goals and overcome challenges.

• I am driven by a passion for continuous learning and personal growth.

• I find fulfillment in using my skills and knowledge to solve complex problems.

• I am motivated by the satisfaction of seeing the...read more
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Q3. Why would you choose A&M?
Ans. 
A&M is a top consulting firm known for its expertise, global reach, and client-focused approach.
• A&M has a strong reputation in the consulting industry

• A&M has a global presence with offices in major cities around the world

• A&M is known for its client-centric approach and delivering results

• A&M offers diverse and challenging projects that provide opportunities for growth and learning

• A&M has a collaborative and supportive w
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Q4. What can you bring to the company? List your 5 qualities or skills which would help this company grow.
Ans. 
I can bring a unique combination of analytical skills, problem-solving abilities, strong communication, leadership qualities, and a passion for continuous learning.
• Analytical skills: I have a strong background in data analysis and can effectively analyze complex business problems to provide valuable insights.

• Problem-solving abilities: I excel at identifying and resolving challenges by thinking critically and creatively...read more
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Q5. Can you estimate the number of chairs sold in India in a year?
Ans. 
It is difficult to estimate the exact number of chairs sold in India in a year due to lack of available data.
• There is no centralized database for chair sales in India

• The number of chairs sold varies greatly depending on the region, market demand, and type of chair

• Factors such as population growth, urbanization, and economic conditions can also impact chair sales

• Estimates can be made based on industry reports and survey
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Q6. What do you first consider in a race?
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In a race, I first consider the starting position, competition, and strategy.
• Starting position: The position from which the race begins can have a significant impact on the outcome.

• Competition: Assessing the skills, strengths, and weaknesses of the competitors helps in formulating a strategy.

• Strategy: Developing a plan based on the race distance, terrain, and individual capabilities is crucial.

• Example: In a sprint race...read more
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Q7. Can you estimate the number of jhumkas sold by a shop in Bareilly Since you are from Bareilly?
Ans. 
It is not possible to estimate the number of jhumkas sold by a shop in Bareilly without additional information.
• The number of jhumkas sold depends on various factors such as the popularity of the shop, the price of the jhumkas, the season, and the target audience.

• Without knowing the above factors, it is impossible to estimate the number of jhumkas sold by a shop in Bareilly.

• Even if I am from Bareilly, it does not give m...read more
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Q8. Can you estimate the number of trees in Lucknow?
Ans. 
It is not possible to estimate the number of trees in Lucknow without proper data and analysis.
• Estimating the number of trees in a city requires a comprehensive survey and analysis.

• Factors such as the size of the city, the types of trees, and the density of vegetation need to be considered.

• Remote sensing techniques such as satellite imagery and LiDAR can be used to estimate tree cover.

• Ground surveys can also be conduct...read more
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Q9. Are you soft spoken in general or are you nervous?
Ans. 
I am generally soft spoken.
• I have a calm and gentle speaking style.

• I prefer to listen and observe before speaking up.

• I am comfortable with silence and don't feel the need to fill every moment with words.
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Q1. How do you handle the different situations and share your overall experience in PORs mentioned in the CV?
Ans. 
I handle different situations in PORs by adapting to the needs of the situation and leveraging my past experiences.
• I assess the specific requirements of each situation and determine the best approach.

• I draw upon my past experiences in similar situations to guide my decision-making.

• I communicate effectively with team members and stakeholders to ensure a collaborative approach.

• I continuously learn and adapt to new challe...read more
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Q2. Can you estimate the number of shoes sold (men's formal) for Bata-type stores in the Lucknow Gomti Nagar area?
Ans. 
It is not possible to estimate the number of shoes sold without data.
• Without sales data, it is impossible to estimate the number of shoes sold.

• Factors such as seasonality, competition, and pricing can also affect sales.

• A survey or analysis of sales data would be necessary to provide an estimate.
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Why do you want to join A&M?

Imagine you are a glass bottle manufacturer related to aerated beverages. Can you determine different factors which might affect the demand and what would be the overall demand in the future for glass bottles?
Mostly, a qualitative discussion focused on factors. Majorly analyzed across 3 verticals - 1) Demand for aerated drinks (What pushes people to buy glass bottles and what drives companies to supply drinks in glass bottles) . 2) Reusability of glass bottles 3) External Factors and regulations

Q1. Apart from consulting, do you have any other options in mind?
Ans. 
Yes, I have considered other options apart from consulting.
• I have also considered pursuing a career in finance, as I have a strong background in financial analysis and modeling.

• Another option I have explored is entrepreneurship, as I have a passion for innovation and creating new businesses.

• Additionally, I have thought about transitioning into the technology industry, specifically in product management or business deve...read more
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Q2. What was your role in your previous job?
Ans. 
I was responsible for managing client relationships and providing strategic advice.
• Managed client relationships and served as the main point of contact

• Provided strategic advice and recommendations to clients

• Analyzed data and conducted research to support decision-making

• Developed and delivered presentations to clients

• Collaborated with cross-functional teams to implement solutions
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Q3. How good are you at handling people?
Ans. 
I am highly skilled at handling people and have a strong ability to communicate and build relationships.
• I have excellent communication skills and can effectively convey information and ideas to others.

• I am empathetic and can understand and relate to the emotions and perspectives of others.

• I am a good listener and can actively engage in conversations, making people feel heard and understood.

• I am skilled at conflict reso...read more
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Q4. What is your approach towards aggressive people?
Ans. 
I remain calm and try to understand their perspective before responding.
• I listen actively and acknowledge their feelings.

• I avoid reacting defensively or aggressively.

• I try to find common ground and work towards a solution.

• I set clear boundaries and communicate assertively.

• Example: A client was upset about a delay in project delivery. I listened to their concerns and apologized for the inconvenience. I explained the rea...read more
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Q1. Tell me something about yourself.
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Q2. Asked to walk through all the projects in work experience. Some cross questions on the same lines.
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Q3. Why I chose biotechnology and now an MBA and how I see the biotech space growing in near future with some new findings in that area.
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Started with interviewer telling me about him and his work area in A&M.

Tell me about yourself?
[Please note that I stands for Interviewer and C stands for Candidate]

C: Presented the prepared answer but modulated it more towards work experience and internships done in same area as the interviewer (Pharma).

I: Walk me through your CV and major projects done?

C: Started from work experience and explained all projects with an addition of projects done in internships at the end.

I: Your client is a big hospital looking to improve its operations. Come up with main 3 problems you would consider improving on by applying analytics-based methods.

C: Took a min to note down certain points. Followed the problems a normal person would face in the hospital after entering and effectively communicated my thinking for the problem with the interviewer.

Addressed problems relating to scheduling for a patient in attending a doctor consultation or lab, self-registration after entering hospital and report collection etc. and applied analytics-based solutions for the same.

You are conducting a cricket tournament in IIM Lucknow. How many cricket balls would be used in it if you want to order all at once?
[Please note that I stands for Interviewer and C stands for Candidate]

I: Tell me about your projects in dashboarding?

C: Walked him through all the projects done in that domain with all the technologies used. Some cross questioning on hygiene check of dashboards and things to consider while developing them.

I: As you mentioned you have a liking for sports, let's do a guesstimate. You are conducting a cricket tournament in IIM Lucknow. How many cricket balls would be used in it if you want to order all at once?

C: Asked preliminary questions about the tournament pattern and number of teams involved. Calculated the number of matches that would be played and then the number of balls that would be required. Added a buffer stock at the end as a random percentage but gave reasoning on the basis of loss and wear & tear of the balls.

The Interview was basically a last round just to know me more and about my background. Asked questions on why I chose biotechnology and now an MBA and how I see the biotech space growing in near future with some new findings in that area.

Some questions were about my work experience and internships and also about the life at IIM Lucknow so far.

Q1. Tell me about yourself.
Ans. 
I am a highly motivated and experienced consultant with a strong background in problem-solving and strategic planning.
• I have a Bachelor's degree in Business Administration from XYZ University.

• I have worked for ABC Consulting for the past 5 years, where I have successfully led multiple projects for clients in various industries.

• I specialize in process improvement, cost reduction, and organizational restructuring.

• I have ...read more
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Q2. Why Consulting? Why A&M?
Ans. 
Consulting offers diverse challenges and opportunities for growth. A&M stands out for its expertise and collaborative culture.
• Consulting provides the opportunity to work on diverse projects and industries, constantly learning and growing.

• A&M is known for its deep expertise in various areas such as restructuring, performance improvement, and operational excellence.

• A&M has a collaborative and inclusive culture, where tea...read more
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Q3. Why do you think you are a good fit?
Ans. 
I am a good fit for consulting because of my strong analytical skills, problem-solving abilities, and experience in working with diverse clients.
• Strong analytical skills: I have a proven track record of analyzing complex business problems and providing data-driven solutions.

• Problem-solving abilities: I excel at identifying and addressing challenges, and I am adept at developing innovative strategies to overcome them.

• Ex...read more
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Q4. What are your interests outside of work?
Ans. 
I enjoy playing sports, exploring new places, and reading books.
• Playing sports: I am an avid basketball player and enjoy participating in local leagues.

• Exploring new places: I love traveling and discovering new cultures. Some of my favorite destinations include Japan, Italy, and Iceland.

• Reading books: I find solace in reading and enjoy a wide range of genres, from fiction to self-help books.
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Q5. Tell me about your work with EY.
Ans. 
I worked at EY as a consultant, specializing in financial advisory services.
• Worked as a consultant at EY

• Specialized in financial advisory services

• Assisted clients in making strategic financial decisions

• Conducted financial analysis and provided recommendations

• Collaborated with cross-functional teams to deliver projects

• Developed financial models and performed valuation analysis

• Presented findings and recommendations to cl
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Q6. What are the projects you have loved the most?
Ans. 
I have loved working on projects that involve solving complex business problems and driving strategic change.
• Projects that require analyzing data and providing data-driven insights

• Projects that involve working with cross-functional teams and stakeholders

• Projects that have a significant impact on the client's business

• Projects that allow me to apply my problem-solving and critical thinking skills

• Projects that involve dev...read more
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Q7. How has your day been?
Ans. 
My day has been productive and filled with interesting challenges.
• I started the day by reviewing client documents and preparing for meetings.

• I had a productive meeting with a client where we discussed their business challenges and potential solutions.

• In the afternoon, I worked on analyzing data and creating a presentation for a client presentation tomorrow.

• I also had a brainstorming session with my team to come up with...read more
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Q8. Who all have you interacted with today (From A&M)? How have your interactions been so far?
Ans. 
I have interacted with several individuals from A&M today.
• I have interacted with my team members during our morning meeting.

• I had a discussion with my manager about the progress of a project.

• I collaborated with a colleague from A&M on a client presentation.

• I had a phone call with a senior consultant from A&M to discuss a potential engagement.

• I attended a virtual training session conducted by an A&M expert.
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Q9. Tell me about your interests.
Ans. 
I have a wide range of interests including technology, business strategy, and personal development.
• Technology: I enjoy staying up to date with the latest advancements in technology and how they can be applied to solve business problems.

• Business strategy: I am fascinated by the strategic decisions that organizations make to achieve their goals and thrive in competitive markets.

• Personal development: I believe in continuo...read more
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Q10. What do you understand about consulting and A&M? What is the job like? Have you or anybody else in your family travelled for work?
Ans. 
Consulting involves providing expert advice and solutions to businesses. A&M is a global consulting firm known for its turnaround and restructuring expertise.
• Consulting is a profession where professionals provide expert advice and solutions to businesses.

• A&M is a global consulting firm known for its expertise in turnaround and restructuring.

• The job of a consultant involves analyzing business problems, developing strate...read more
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Suppose you have a PE firm as your client, looking to invest in a company into packaging business. The client has 2 options.

• Company A: 200Cr in revenues, 15 Cr EBITDA, Growth rate 10%
• Company B: 150 Cr in revenues, 18 Cr EBITDA, Growth rate 15%

You have to assess the options. However, you cannot ask for more than two data points from me/client.
[Please note that I stands for Interviewer and C stands for Candidate]

C: I would ask for the following two data points:

1. Purpose of the investment? I want to understand if the investment has a larger strategic motive or if it is being done purely from an investment perspective.

2. Considering we are looking at EBITDA numbers right now and not the net profit, I would want to know the capital structure of the two companies - debt/equity split and financial costs, if any.

I: The client is PE firm. They are only motive is to maximize their profits. (I do not remember him mentioning that the client was a PE firm initially. If he did, this was a blunder on my part.) Gave me numbers for capital structure, interest costs.

C: Based on the limited information available, Company B appears to be the better option. Do you want me to explore the two options further?

I: Yes, maybe we can dig deeper. What are some other factors that would affect the decision?

C: Listed factors like - revenue current and future, interest burden, volatility of revenue (risks), diversity of revenue streams (to hedge against risks), environmental factors, increasing costs, etc.

I: Asked me to think more. What would be that one piece of information that would change your decision altogether?

C: ROI to the firm (How much would I need to invest to earn x% return) - this should have been mentioned before (ideally) - defended myself by saying that I had asked for the capital structure and as per his reply capital investment was comparable.

I: Gave me feedback. You could have thought about the total capital requirement of the firm. Did not consider whether the companies would need to raise additional capital to grow at the projected rates - apart from the money they would be raising from our client.

Your client is an EPC company (construction business). They work in construction of roads, buildings, water tanks, etc. The client has heard from a friend that there are growing opportunities in water sector. The client has reached out for your help to figure out whether they should pursue this.
[Please note that I stands for Interviewer and C stands for Candidate]

C: Started with CPCC to understand the context. Asked questions on the motives.

I: Gave me facts about the company, competition, market scenario for EPC players.

C: You initially mentioned that the client has a presence in water tanks - you mentioned projects like construction of water tanks. What are these new opportunities that we are exploring now? Are they different from the kind of work we already do?

I: Gave me a detailed description of water sector projects - different categories.

C: Asked a few questions related to each category - customer profiles, market size, growth rates, competition.

C: I believe I have got a good sense of the overall business and the opportunity we are analyzing right now. I would now proceed to analyze the factors that could have an impact on the decision.

Started with PESTLE, Porter's 5 forces. However, he asked me to quickly list all the factors - did not give a lot of information.

I: From our discussion so far, can you list the top 3-4 factors that will be relevant to the decision?

C: Listed 3 factors.

I: Alright. So, let us assume after all the discussion, we have narrowed down on XX opportunity and it requires an investment of INR 1000 Cr. The project would give the client INR 100 Cr in cash inflows for the next 15 years. Should the client go ahead with this?

C: Asked questions about equity/debt split, cost of capital, cost of debt. He gave me the numbers.

I started with the calculation at this point. I was 30-40 seconds into the calculation when he realized that the calculation had become a little complicated (because of the additional information he had just given me).

I: Let us not get into the entire calculation. That may take too much time. Tell me the approach you were following.

C: Explained IRR calculation. IF IRR> Weighted cost of capital - profitable investment. If not, the client should not invest.

Q1. 1. Guesstimate on estimating the number of trees in Gurgaon.
Ans. 
There are approximately 1.5 million trees in Gurgaon.
• Assuming an average of 10 trees per acre of land

• Gurgaon has approximately 150,000 acres of land

• Therefore, there are approximately 1.5 million trees in Gurgaon
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Q2. 2. Suppose you have $ 1mn to invest and 3-4 stocks to choose from, what are the factors you would consider for selecting any stock?
Ans. 
Factors to consider when selecting stocks to invest $1mn in
• Market trends and performance of the company

• Financial health and stability of the company

• Industry competition and growth potential

• Management team and their track record

• Diversification of the portfolio

• Risk tolerance and investment goals
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Q3. 3. Suppose your client is establishing a hospital on a highway in India. What are the factors that need to be considered?
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