Probationary officer, often abbreviated as PO, is an entry-level managerial position offered in various Public and Private sector Banks of India. Probationary officers are responsible for overseeing a long list of tasks, including finances, public relations, and supervision of the clerical staff. The entry ticket to this position is through successfully clearing an entrance exam.
And when it comes down to the exams, SBI PO and IBPS PO always seem to compete for attention among the aspirants. Both the exams lead to respectable jobs with handsome salaries and perks, yet many get stuck in making a final choice.
So, what causes this dilemma?
To answer, you need to understand both the similarities and differences between these two widely acclaimed exams and the jobs they deliver.
Recruitment and vacancies
SBI PO exam is conducted to recruit 2,000 probationary officers for SBI Banks throughout the country. Whereas IBPS, or The Institute of Banking Personnel Selection, recruits probationary officers in eleven different organizations. Compared to the SBI PO, IBPS PO Vacancy is almost double in number, 4,336 to be precise.
Selection procedure and exam pattern
Both SBI PO and IBPS PO follow a similar path here. The candidates for this position are selected via three steps; The preliminary exam, the mains exam, and a personal interview, including a GD. The exam pattern, however, slightly differs. The SBI PO exam is somewhat more advanced and challenging to crack.
Job profile and work-life balance
Since the designation is similar, the work in all banks for a PO is not much different. However, the number of duties and workload varies.
SBI, being a large-scale national bank with branches in almost all parts of India, offers a poor work-life balance. Another bummer is the rural postings! Being associated with SBI is an achievement, but sadly it takes you miles away from your home sweet home. Thankfully, frequent promotions, good salary packages, and better perks save the day!
On the other hand, work pressure and rural postings at IBPS PO recruited jobs are far less. However, the salary in comparison to what SBI offers has a considerable difference.
Additional perks
IBPS recruited PO are entitled to traveling, leased rental accommodation, and medical benefits, but it is covered differently.
For instance, if you are an SBI PO, you will get complete access to all medical facilities, travel concessions, and an official bank accommodation for you and your immediate family. But, if you are a PO recruited by IBPS, you will get an annual sum of 8,000 as a medical aid facility, free stays at the guest house instead of traveling concessions, and leased accommodation, which will vary depending on where you live.
Still not able to choose? Appear for both the exams and let the SBI or IBPS PO Scorecard decide your fate!
Weighing both the pros and cons, you get a clear answer. SBI PO is a better choice when it comes to the offered joining salary and additional perks. But being a national bank, there is a huge probability that you’ll not get a posting in a state or city of your residence.
On the other hand, IBPS PO is a good choice if you prefer life over your work, as the duties and responsibilities in smaller banks will always be less. Moreover, you’ll get a decent salary along with good perks; however, it will be considerably less than what an SBI PO gets every month!
Therefore, there is no right or wrong pick. Your choice will depend on your preferences and your abilities. If staying away from your place is the cost you can pay for being associated with a brand like SBI, it’s a perfect job with all the facilities you will ever need. It brings in a massive scope of learning and growth in your career and can take you a step ahead of others. An IBPS recruited PO will have a much easier passage through the selection process, an excellent work-life balance, and not so lousy salary. If you love your comfort and can manage a few more years with a smaller cubicle, IBPS PO is your way.