INTERVIEW SKILLS

INTERVIEW SKILLS

With the impact on the global economy, the job market  has been too gloomy. In such an environment, it is even more important for us to do well in campus interviews to grab the jobs we desire by being mentally fit and alert. It is important to know how to handle and be able to do well in interviews at very short notice.

A few things to remember

1. We have to ensure that the resume has been checked for typos and is structured in a way that makes it easy to read highlighting those skills and experience that is relevant to the job.

2. Interviews are used as a tool of judging whether one fits the job and as well as with the company.

3. Know the self, inside out. Only complete self—understanding can make the panel understand the person.

4. Time should be taken to understand how to project self during the interview.

5. Everything that is said or done makes an impression whether positive or negative. (Be it the way we sit, the way we talk or your choice of clothing. Everything matters!)

6. It is to be remembered that an Interview is like a sales pitch in many ways, so self presentation is very important.

Preparing for the unexpected

In some interviews, solution for a case-study or an impromptu presentation may be asked. Mental preparation is necessary. These situations give the panel an opportunity to assess behavior in stressful or unexpected situations. They just want to get to know the real PERSON. They want to find out job handling, interest in the company and whether the person they want is reliable to have during tough and stressful times.

Calmness, remaining positive and logical thinking is expected from the candidate.

Appearance

First impressions are made within the first few minutes and are very important for a successful interview. Most employers prefer candidates wearing formal attire. Dress soberly and neatly pressed clothes. Avoid flashy clothes, lot of jewellery or strong perfumes. Get an appropriate haircut and trim the nails. A professional look is the first step to making the first great impression.

The interview tool-kit

The day before the interview, collect all the material and keep them in a file. Keep extra copies of the resume. Carry letters of reference and reference list if any, transcripts, certificates, other supporting documents, passport size photos, a writing pad, pen and a calculator.

Relax

Ensure a good sleep the day before the interview. Stay calm and relax; only when we are relaxed will we do well.

During the Interview

1. Stay focused; put away any worries
2. Switch off the cell phone before an interview starts
3. Maintain eye contact with the interviewer. It conveys confidence
4. Introduce clearly with the first and last name
5. Smile at appropriate times
6. Take time to understand the question and then answer it. It is not a question of how fast we can answer but how well we answer
7. Be expressive, talk crisply and slowly. Do not mumble, stammer or use a monotone
8. Keep the answers to the point. Avoid rambling
9. Be forthright and direct. Do not be evasive or beat around the bush
10. Never lie in an interview
11. Never blame or badmouth anyone during an interview
12. Never argue, always give polite responses
13. If you do not know the answer, be frank, admit it
14. Show up on time.

Conclusion

It is essential to be confident in an interview. If the answers are practiced and the homework is done well, then most of the questions can be answered without difficulty. Remember that relevant topics are studied the before the interview. Know more about the profile of the company for which the interview is being conducted.

Keep in mind why we want to go into a particular industry (Telecom, Banking, Auto, etc.), why we are interested in the job and the company. Make sure we have a good grasp of the basic concepts and convince the interviewer that we have the capability and interest to learn the complex characteristics of the job.