Interview Skills

Why should you master the Interview Skills?

Where there is competition and selection, there is invariably an interview today. Whether it is a selection for a job or for training abroad or for admission to a college course, there is definitely an interview or personality test. A candidate who aspires to success in his career, an individual who wishes to have a bright future, a competitor who is keen to top the list , must therefore master the technique of doing best in the interview. What is an interview ? Interview is a face to face conversation for a specific purpose. Before you appear for an interview, you must clearly know and understand the purpose of the interview. In an employment or selection interview, the aim of the interviewer or the Board of Interview is to assess and evaluate the extent of the candidates suitability for the job in hand. In other words, the interview may be for selection to the Civil Services, other first grade UPSC cadres or may be at Service Selection Boards (SSBs) for the selection of Officers. Again, it may relate to the selection of business executives, salesmen, accountants, office-supervisors, and so on. In all the cases the selectors have certain specifications, and by means of interview, they would try to see how far the candidate meets such requirements.

Important Factors of the Interview:

The two important factors which play decisive role in the interview are the candidates knowledge and his power of expression. In any group or a gathering, the person who dominates is the one, who does the talking in a forceful and convincing manner. In the same way, at the interview, the candidate who is able to speak fluently and express himself clearly, will score high marks. At the same time, a candidate cannot talk well, unless he has enough knowledge or ideas on various topics. While answering, the candidate should take the lead and cover as much of the relevant ground as possible. In other words, simply saying Yes or No to a question will not suffice. The candidate should explain convincingly why he agrees or disagrees to a given proposition. He must logically and forcefully substantiate his views with valid arguments. Both the UPSC and SSB interviews lay much emphasis on qualities of leadership.

The Board takes note of the following qualities, when it tries to assess the leadership ability of the candidate, as the same have been generally accepted as leadership attributes: Intellectual Attainments: The extent of knowledge in different subject- Science, History, Economics, Current Affairs, etc. The depth of knowledge- How deeply the candidate has studied a subject of his choice or interest ? Practical Knowledge- How the candidate can apply his theoretical knowledge in practical situations or how best he can solve problems. Grasp- How quickly the candidate understands the subject. Power of Expression: Fluency No stammering, gape, etc. Forceful Lively, enthusiastic & arresting. No monotonous or dragging voice. No swallowing of words. Not speaking very fast. Logic in argument Rational, clearheaded, analytical, systematic, alive to facts and existing limitations Personal Traits: Cheerful, pleasant and smiling disposition Liveliness Eager, alert, inspired by urge, fired with ambition Dress and turnout Smart, clean and suited to the occasion. No shabby clothes, proper haircut, clean nails, polished shoes Poise Graceful movements, confident approach, straight walk, looking into the eyes while speaking Punctuality

Organizing Ability: Clear aim and objective Ambition and goal in life Planning Working out what is to be done, when and how? Methodological approach Mobilisation and utilisation of resources.

Character: Discipline Loyalty Integrity and moral values Sincerity Health & Stamina: Games & sports Indoor as well as outdoor Exercises and outdoor life. Physical endurance and stamina. Hobbies & Interests: Utilization of leisure and spare time Cinema, radio, books, journals, etc. Cultural activities Fine arts Drama, music, dancing.

Dynamic Qualities: Self confidence, initiative and determination Courage, promptness to take decisions Power of command, resourcefulness Spirit of adventure, willingness to take risks. Psychological Factors: Positive thinking, confident approach Optimistic, hopeful outlook Sense of right & wrong Absence of anti-social qualities Unreasonable fear, persecution complex, jealousy, inclination towards crimes, etc. Social Qualities: Sense of responsibility, adaptability, cooperation and readiness to help Preference to group life and activity Consideration for the feelings of others, sympathetic attitude Readiness to sacrifice, selflessness Set an example for others Persuasive ability, ability to influence others and get things done.