What not to do in an interview

In this tough job market, any face time you get with a hiring manager
is absolutely invaluable. Make sure youre on your best behavior and
avoid these interview goof-ups
Last week I had lunch with a colleague who had recently hired someone for a part-time position for her office.
My colleague was interested to observe the wide variety of people who applied for a low-paying, part-time
position. She was even more intrigued by one candidates behavior during the interview. (Also read: What not to
say in an interview)

Apparently this candidate had called on her way to the interview to say she was en route. Based on her supposed
whereabouts, the candidate should have arrived 10-15 minutes early. Somehow, she actually arrived 40 minutes
latewithout offering any explanation as to why. As if her tardiness werent bad enough, this candidate then
proceeded to scroll through and reply to e-mails on her Blackberry during the interview!

I know what youre thinking: Yeah, thats what happens when you interview college students. Not so! This badly
behaved candidate was an administrator in her 50s, looking for an additional job to earn a little extra money. My
colleague was stunned someone of this ageand at this stage in her professional lifewould act so poorly in an
interview setting. So, in case it needs to be said:

Show up for every interview slightly early.

Between 5-10 minutes is perfect. If you get there anymore than 10 minutes early, hang out in your car until its
closer to your appointment time. Interviewers dont like to feel rushed into talking with you. On the other hand,
leaving yourself extra minutes will still allow you to arrive on time if you happen to miss a turn, get caught
behind a school bus, or find yourself waiting at a railroad crossing as a 3-mile-long freight train moseys its way
toward Montana.

Set your cell phone to silent or turn it off.

If your vibration mode is as loud as mine, its too loud for a quiet interview setting. If youre like the woman
above and cant keep your hands off your crackberry, leave it in the car. Many people consider it bad form to
even be looking at your cell phone while youre waiting to be called in. (Also read: 10 mistakes that can ruin any
interview)

If something truly crazy occurs that causes you to be late, apologize profusely.
There is no easier way to get off on the wrong foot with a potential employer than to give them the impression
you dont value their timeor youre not worth hiring in the first place because youre not dependable and
inconsiderate.

In this tough job market, any face time you get with a hiring manager is absolutely invaluable. Make sure youre
on your best behavior!

Jessica Holbrook Hernandez

Career Exper

10 mistakes that can ruin any interview

Most candidates only receive one opportunity to make an impression
on a potential employer. Make sure the one you leave is as positive as
possible by keeping these tips in mind during your next interview.
Your cover letter and resume has made a positive impression on a potential employer and theyve called you in
for an interview. Now you need to ensure the employer stays impressed with you and your potential in their
organization. (Also read: Tips to face job interviews confidently)

Theres an old saying first impressions count and there is no better instance of the truth to this than the
impressions made during an interview. A variety of factors are in effect. It may include the way you are dressed,
how you communicate, your personality, and a number of other considerations. It takes a lot to develop a positive
impression, and conversely requires very little to leave one that does not work in your favor as key decisions are
made for the new talent they need to bring on. (Also read: First impressions: Youve got 30 seconds to make the
right one)

All the time invested into planning and preparing becomes obsolete with these mistakes commonly seen with
some job candidates.

Arriving late. Everyones time is value. Show respect and do not waste other peoples
time. If there is an unexpected delay, at the very least, give a call to apologize and inform
your contact of your expected arrival time.

Jumping into the discussion of pay and benefits. There will be a time for this
discussion generally not in the first interview, unless it is approached by the employer. You
do not want to appear as though all you care about is what is in it for me. At the same
time, approaching the topic of salary is especially risky. You may end up putting yourself in a
position where you are asked to present a desired salary and fall under what the company
had anticipated. Learn more about the position and conduct research before going into
discussion of salary.

Answering a cell phone. Show respect by letting your employer know this interview is
more important than any call you have. Turn off your cell phone. If you forget and it rings,
apologize and turn it off.

Talking bad about your previous or current employer. Regardless of the reality of the
situation, never talk bad about your current or previous employer(s). It brings to question if
you will do the same with this potential employer in the future.

Being brief or hiding from questions or talking too much. Just as you want to learn
about the employer, the employer wants to learn about you. At the same time, you dont
want to be the only one talking throughout the interview. Learn to listen and have a
balanced conversation where you both have a chance to receive information and ask
questions.

Not asking questions. Regardless of how thorough the interview discussion is, when
asked, Do you have any questions for me?, always have a question. When you do not
have a question, it may come across as though you are not sincerely interested in the
opportunity.

Dressing inappropriately. Your appearance includes not just what you wear but how you
groom yourself. Employers will not be impressed with a sloppy appearance. You need to
appear and dress the part of what is expected of the position.

Being unprepared. Conduct research so you have at least a general sense of the type of
business the company is in and what the position you are applying for is about. You will be
able to better tailor your communication during discussion and questions with the employer.

Lying. False information can lead to an immediate disqualification and exemplify your
weaknesses.

Being inattentive. Carefully listen to what the interviewer is saying and show you are
attentive. You do not want to appear disinterested and come off as inattentive. It is not a
desirable characteristic for any position. (Also read: Being a good listener in interviews)

Most candidates will only receive one opportunity to make an impression. Make sure the one you leave is as
positive as possible by keeping these tips in mind during your next interview.

6 tips for following up after the job interview

It has become a necessity in todays times to use the most effective

methods of following up after a job interview to score some easy points
with the recruiter and secure a job.
If youre not using the best, most effective methods of following up after a job interview, youre missing out on
the chance to score some easy points that just could push you over the top and out of the unemployment line.

Make sure youre going above and beyond to impress interviewers and secure the job. Here are some guidelines
for the perfect interview follow-up strategy.

Sooner is Better
In a recent CareerBliss Poll asking how soon people follow up after a job interview, 39 percent of respondents
said they do it the next day. Good answer, according to Career Expert, Vicky Oliver.

Oliver, author of 301 Smart Answers to Tough Interview Questions, said the best time to reach out after an
interview is within 24 hours. The 61 percent of poll respondents who said they wait two to three days, a week or
never follow-up should take note.

If youre incredibly lucky, Oliver said, the interviewer will hit the e-mail back to you saying she/he really
enjoyed meeting you and voila! now youre in the running! These rules apply even if an executive recruiter
helped you land the interview.

The 3-Paragraph Rule

Your follow-up e-mail should be short, sweet and personalized. Generally, a good rule of thumb for the length is
three paragraphs, with no more than two to three sentences in each paragraph.

First Paragraph: Briefly thank them for their time and reiterate your interest in the position.

Second Paragraph: Discuss a couple of your strengths and how the company would benefit if you were
hired. Consider using bullet points to break up your text.

Third Paragraph: Include any points of clarifications you might have. Include answers to questions that
you werent able to answer during the interview, or add new info about yourself that was left out of the
interview. But, remember, keep it brief.

Oliver suggests indicating your next point of contact by saying something along the lines of Look forward to
hearing from you within the next two weeks. If no date was set at the interview, either ask for one or specify you
will loop back to them for a decision in two weeks.

Splurge on the Good Thank You Paper

Sending a hand-written thank you note via snail mail adds a charming touch, and further showcases your gratitude
for their time. Go all out for this gesture. Practice your handwriting. Splurge and spend the extra money for highquality paper it will show prospective employers you value their time, and also will speak well of your attention
to detail.

Double Check Their Names

Candidates should double check the spelling of the interviewers name, his or her title, and the address of the
company, Oliver said. While youre at it, dont forget to spell-check the entire letter both e-mail and snail mail.
These steps may seem obvious, but all too often minor spelling and grammatical blunders get through, making the
candidate look careless.

Avoid Follow-up Faux Pas

After you have written your notes, double check to ensure that you have avoided these common mistakes:
Repetition Negativity Cheesy emoticons and exclamation points Informal language Grammar/spelling errors

Dont Call Them, Theyll Call You

Usually, toward the end of an interview, hiring managers will indicate a general time for when they will contact
you. If this was not addressed, be sure to ask them to give you an idea in your initial follow-up e-mail. Only call
the employer if that date has passed. Call any time before then and you will come off as desperate and
bothersome.

Reference check, Indian shtyle

The smarter recruitment leaders know the importance of informal
network reference checks. These seasoned recruiters are reaching out
to the signatories for direct confirmation of candidate reputations.
The newly appointed human resources (HR) head had a task at hand. One particular business head was just not
making the cut. His peer feedback had negative written all over it, whether it was domain knowledge, teamwork
or organizational persona. Subordinates chafed at his high-handedness, my way or the highway mannerisms and
insecurity. And the business heads boss felt he was cutting corners, only managing perceptions and not being
entirely truthful with the facts. All in all, prospects for the business head concerned were pretty bleak in the
organization and the New Broom HR head had been called in to wield the proverbial axe.

And that was what led him to pore over the docket of the employee in question. The biodata, still crisp, confirmed
the hire was new. Indeed he had been in the organization a mere six months. On the face of it, it was an
impressive rsum. The previous employment dates tallied meticulously with the corresponding service
certificates, the academic qualifications seemed solid, and finally the reference letter from his previous boss
seemed strong. Strong team player, great inter-personal skills, delivers on the promise, said the testimonial. In
fact, it was quite a testimonial. Bottom line: a no kinks message totally out of sync with the reality on the
ground.

This was when the HR head realized that the referee was actually known to him and picked up the phone for a
seemingly nonchalant chat about the business head concerned. The referees refrain should come as no surprise to
any seasoned HR professional. Of course, I gave that reference letter. But you know I had to do that in the
formal communication, dont you? But since you are my friend, let me tell you this. We were actually really glad
to see him go. He was such a nuisance. Full of politics. He continually went above my head to my boss, isolated
his team from the rest of the organization, has no depth And I fear some of his earlier experience details may be
all fictitious. But write about it in the testimonial that I cannot do.

Welcome to the world of reference checks, Indian shtyle.

The smarter recruitment leaders know the importance of informal network reference checks. They are not
taken in by formal organizational testimonials which eulogize candidates when in reality they are nothing
but great outplacement Trojan Horses. Wielding their mobiles with ease, these seasoned recruiters reach out to
the signatories for direct confirmation of candidate reputations. Forget the famed six degrees of separation, they
are past masters in making the connections at much less the number.

Interviews themselves are goldmines for seasoned campaigners for future reference checking. They are constantly
checking for referencing leads Which batch from IIT are you? ; Where did you do your MBA? ; Did you
know so and so?; Oh, so you worked in...; Did you know...? Was he your boss? (Also read: What are recruiters
looking for?)

And so go the barrage of questions!

And so it is the Who you know that is filed away for future use, much more than the What you did, quite
contrary to what all the great interview questioning styles teach you to do. Oh, we do probe for achievements and
attitude, collecting the examples or STARS, as they are euphemistically called in recruiting parlance. But it is the

Whos that really interest us. Because remember, with them comes the chance to do the sacred reference
checks, the actual backbone of senior- and mid-level recruitment. And who can blame the HR for the referencecheck obsession, given the number of fictitious biodatas in circulation.

But the zeal for robust reference checks can border on the realm of thoughtlessness. Current employers are
sometimes pinged carelessly to suss out candidate reputation without so much as a by-your-leave. Many times
this happens even before the interview has even happened. Which is why the adage leaking like a proverbial
sieve gains particular relevance in the context of a rsum which, with a gentle tap of a finger, finds itself
winging its way into the wide, wide Internet.

There are of course the professional reference checkers. While their reference-checking etiquette may at times
leave much to be desired, this industry is now galloping in India in no small measure due to the mandatory
reference checking prescribed by headquarter mandates for multi-national companies and even customers. Their
green/red/yellow clearances on the education, employment, credit and criminal checks are awaited with bated
breath. And in a hand-to-mouth situation, especially in the service industry, between prized recruitment and
ASAP deployment of scarce talent, a Red on a reference check means a red-in-the-face manager
explaining to a furious client why an employee had to be suddenly pulled out of an assignment.

Talking of consulates, they have indeed set new benchmarks for reference checking. State-of-the-art technology
provides for direct-from-college and direct-from-company information uploads for credential checking, totally
ruling out the need for Reference Checker Middlemen.

Finally, the matrimonial reference checks. Many a professional manager, in his time, gets a call from an
acquaintance checking out a team member or a colleague for a marriage alliance. How is his character? and
What are his prospects? are the questions most commonly posed. While many an expat manager may go green
around the gills with the question, the savvy Indian counterpart will take it in his stride. Armed with a few
discreet checks, he gets back with the relevant details. It is of course a different matter that the checked out
employee is also usually given a sneak heads-up by his or her manager and so alls well with the prospect as much
aware of the check as the checker That is par for the course, because we are, after all, like that only. (Also read:
Ways to pass the social recruitment test)

So, why dont you tell me about yourself?

Its a question most interviewees expect and yet the one they find most
difficult to answer. Follow these four easy steps to ensure your response
grabs the interviewer's attention.

So, why dont you tell me about yourself is the most frequently asked interview question. Its a question that
most interviewees expect and the one they have the most difficulty answering. Though one could answer this
open-ended question in a myriad of ways, the key to answering this question or any other interview question is to
offer a response that supports your career objective. This means that you shouldnt respond with comments about
your hobbies, spouse, or extra curricular activities. Trust me, interviewers arent interested.

Interviewers use the interview process as a vehicle to eliminate your candidacy. Every question they ask is used to
differentiate your skills, experience, and personality with that of other candidates. They want to determine if what
you have to offer will mesh with the organizations mission and goals.

If answered with care, your response to the question, So, why dont you tell me about yourself? could
compliment the interviewers needs as well as support your agenda. This is a question you should be prepared to
answer as opposed to attempting to wing it. (Also read: Tips to face job interviews confidently)

Follow the four easy steps outlined below to ensure your response will grab the interviewers attention.

Provide a brief introduction. Introduce attributes that are key to the open position. Sample
introduction: During my 10 years of experience as a sales manager, I have mastered the ability to coach,
train, and motivate sales teams into reaching corporate goals.

Provide a career summary of your most recent work history. Your career summary is the meat of
your response, so it must support your job objective and it must be compelling. Keep your response
limited to your current experience. Dont go back more than 10 years. Sample career summary: Most
recently, at The Widget Corporation, I was challenged with turning around a stagnant territory that ranked
last in sales in the Northeastern region. Using strategies that have worked in the past, I developed an
aggressive sales campaign that focused on cultivating new accounts and nurturing the existing client base.
The results were tremendous. Within six months my sales team and I were able to revitalize the territory
and boost sales by 65%.

Tie your response to the needs of the hiring organization. Dont assume that the interviewer will be
able to connect all the dots. It is your job as the interviewee to make sure the interviewer understands how
your experiences are transferable to the position they are seeking to fill. Sample tie-in: Because of my
proven experience in leading sales teams, Craig Brown suggested I contact you regarding your need for a
sales manager. Craig filled me in on the challenges your sales department is facing.

Ask an insightful question. By asking a question you gain control of the interview. Dont ask a question
for the sake of asking. Be sure that the question will engage the interviewer in a conversation. Doing so

will alleviate the stress you may feel to perform. Sample question: What strategies are currently underway
to increase sales and morale within the sales department? (Also read: Questions to ask the interviewer)

There you have it a response that meets the needs of the interviewer and supports your agenda. (Also read
more on: Tell me about yourself)

When broken down into manageable pieces, the question, So, tell me about yourself? isnt overwhelming. In
fact, answering the question effectively gives you the opportunity to talk about your strengths, achievements, and
qualifications for the position. So take this golden opportunity and run with it!

Over-qualified or under-qualified? Handle it

Worrying that you are over qualified or perhaps under qualified for the
job at hand? Remember, the interviewer is there to be convinced about
your suitability for the job and that is precisely what you need to do.
Here is how.
Over qualified or under qualified - here is help to get you qualified to answer this bouncer. When you get thrown
this question, dont view it as a sign of defeat, but just one more hurdle to cross. Remember, the interviewer is
there to be convinced about your suitability for the job and you have to clear his doubts and convince him,
whether you over-meet or under-meet the requirements, here is how you can handle the situation.

Handling the OverQualified Question:

Its up to you to make the interviewer view this as an advantageous situation rather than a drawback.

Commitment: The main concern behind this question in an interviewers mind is how
soon will you get bored of the job and quit, as you are too qualified for it be it in terms of
knowledge, educational qualifications or years of experience. What you need to do here is to
convince the recruiter of your commitment to the job. You can tell him you are
looking for a long-term commitment in this particular area as you love to work in this field
and it is your passion.

Immediate Contribution: You have the great advantage of already knowing your job well
and can begin to contribute almost immediately; whereas a lesser qualified person
would have a longer learning curve. You can say as you are so well qualified you would be
willing to extend yourself to other related areas and contribute there as well and you
are sure you will get new learning opportunities on this job itself.

Interest: Also mention the fact that it is not the money and the title that is important but
the work profile that interests you. It is the kind of work you would be happy doing and
that is why you are here. Your extensive experience/qualifications only make you better
fitted for the job. (Also read: The art of self-motivation)

Taking on the Under-Qualified Challenge:

Here the recruiter may be concerned about your lack of experience in one particular area, eg you have great
creative skills, but your edit skills are not so strong. If you didnt fit the bill at all, you would not be at the
interview in the first place. So, be assured first that the interviewer is only concerned about a particular area
and wants you to convince him you are capable of managing. Dont take it as a fatal flaw question and lose
your nerves or get defensive. So how do you handle this question?

Deeper Experience: When the interviewer asks about your lack of experience /
qualification in a particular area, agree on the importance of this qualification. Then find
ways to explain how your experience is greater than what the resume may
indicate. If there is a qualification you lack, show how your experience makes up for
what just a degree may indicate in terms of knowledge in this area. Or if you lack in years of
experience, showcase how your shorter stint in the area has been a deeper one
with a steeper learning curve enabling you to handle more in a lesser period of time.

Overall Strengths: You should also have already done your homework in matching the
job requirements to your job skills when preparing for the interview (as discussed in a
previous article - 'Underlining your strenghts'). Now showcase your strengths and other
qualifications as relevant to the job at hand, and show them how a combination of your
strengths make you suitable for the job; lack of certain knowledge/qualification
notwithstanding. This tactic helps shift the focus away from what you lack, and puts you in a
stronger light, highlighting a combination of your strengths that match just fine with the job
need.

So, all in all, its a matter of how you handle the question and convince the recruiter. Be sure you are well aware
of what the job profile entails beforehand, so you are accordingly prepared with answers that project you as the
best candidate. (Also read: Top ten interview questions) Finally speak with conviction and have a enthusiastic and
energetic attitude, that shows the recruiter you are truly interested in the job at hand.

Top 5 proactive and unique job interview strategies

The amount of work it actually entails to find a job in todays web 2.0
world can be overwhelming. Read about some strategic and creative

ways to stand out during the hiring process once you have landed the
interview.
It can be overwhelming to think about how much work it actually entails to find a job in todays web 2.0 world. If
you are very serious about it, you have likely educated yourself in all the various facets of a job search and
become well-equipped to go out and tackle the task. But, so have many others. Once a company narrows down
the candidate pool to a group of people they want to meet, and you are one of them, its time to start thinking
about your next steps. Only one person can be chosen in the end. When all things are equal, what makes you stand
out?

Finding strategic and creative ways to land job interviews is half the battle. Once you are chosen for an interview,
its not always going to be enough to arrive early, smile at the right times, answer the questions properly, ask the
right questions, and then conduct all the proper follow-up tasks. Chances are you are going up against other
candidates who will also be doing those same things. Now is the time to go that extra mile. (Also read: How to
ace an interview - the checklist)

The best proactive strategies are somewhat subtle in nature and just flow with the rest of the process. The
following are the top five strategies 80% of candidates do not utilize:

Confirm your interview. If you have at least a few days between when you set up your
interview and when it actually takes place, use the extra time to your advantage. Call or email to confirm the interview, and let them know you are really looking forward to
it. Not very many candidates do this, yet its these little acts of professionalism that matter.

Develop a rapport with the people who interview you. Typically interviews (including
phone interviews), start out with some small talk. Dont just answer questions asked of you,
ask them questions too and get a lighthearted conversation going! Ask them how they are
doing and maybe share a lighthearted story. Try to help take the rigid formality of a job
interview down a notch so that the conversation can flow easier. If any of the
interviewers share something of some level of significance, be creative and use that
information in further communications. Your thank you letter to that person could briefly
mention something that had come up. For example, if an interviewer mentioned that his or
her child was sick, why not briefly mention in your thank you letter that you hope his or her
child is feeling better? Who wouldnt appreciate that? (Also read: 3 Ways to build rapport
and ace the interview)

Ask if you can have a tour of the office/building/plant, etc. This is especially effective
if the company has a manufacturing facility and you can ask a lot of questions about their
products and how they are made. Regardless, this is a great way to show that you have
strong interest in the company. While on the tour, bring up several things that you know

about the company (you have done your homework, right?) and ask questions about them.
Take notice of things you see and either compliment them or ask questions about them.

Make it clear you are interested in the job and the company and not whats in it
for me? Try not to ask questions or makes statements that make it clear that you are only
interested in how this job will affect you. Employers want individuals who care about the
company. If it doesnt come up in the interview, ask if you can learn about the companys
values and mission statement and talk about how it aligns with yours. The values and
mission statement are (or should be!) a very important part of a companys culture. So few
people ask about this stuff! Ask about how your job fits into the department and in
the company as a whole. Show interest in what the company actually does. If you
spend most of your time talking and asking about all the things that pertain to you, you will
not be impressing anyone even if you provide otherwise good answers to the questions.

Send personalized thank you letters to every person who was in the interview.
Personalized means personal and unique to each person who was in the interview. Make it
different than the othersreference communication items that are specific to that person if
you can. This is a great approach, different from just sending a standard copy/paste thank
you letter to them all. Many candidates do send separate e-mails to each interviewer but
the content is the same. Thank you e-mails can and will get forwarded to others at times
and when some were forwarded to me, I found it to be very impressive if the content was
different from the one I received. Handwritten ones are a great idea as well. Its more
personal which is a nice touch. If you can spare the time to go all out, hand write them and
drop them off the same day or the next day, you should go for it!

Its little things like this that break you apart from the masses and help you really stand out. Sure, some of these
are a little extra work. But if it helps you get the job, isnt it worth it?

5 Tips to prepare for unexpected job interviews

Have you ever been through an unexpected interview? How can you
perform well in these interviews without any preparation? Well, the
only thing you can do is prepare for the basic things that all
interviewers will ask.
Imagine what will happen if a recruiter calls you with an interesting opportunity requesting for a quick interview.
It is an unexpected interview and you do not know what to say. So, it becomes important to be prepared for
interviews all the time. Here is a list of basic things that you can be ready with in case an unexpected opportunity
comes knocking:

Introduction: Every recruiter would want to know details about you viz. what have you
been doing and what is your educational background. Create a small write-up that has
details about your personal and professional background. It should be small and precise
giving all the required information within the shortest possible time frame. (Also read: 'So,
why don't you tell me about yourself')

Value proposition: Now, why should a company hire you? The recruiters would want to
know it too. They would want to know the value add that you can do to the organisation. So,
create and memorise a 30 second script that talks about your skill set and experience. It
should clearly be able to bring out your values and the advantages that you can bring to the
company. Since you may not know what exactly the recruiter is looking for, try to keep it
generic to your field of work or the one you aspire to join.

Achievements: Your previous achievements help the recruiter analyse whether you match
the job requirements or not and what they can expect from you. Be prepared with a list of
around 5 achievements that showcase the different skills you possess and tell the recruiter
about them when he/she asks about it. You can also talk about your accomplishments if the
recruiter asks you to quote examples that show your ability to handle different situations.

Common interview questions: There are some common interview questions like why do
you want to leave your current job, what are your strengths and weaknesses etc that every
interviewer asks. Prepare for these questions so that you are ready with answers when the
questions come up. (Also read: Top 10 interview questions)

Research and knowledge: One of the most important things is having knowledge about
your area of work or the field you want to move into. Put in some time to research about the
different companies that offer these roles and what are the main responsibilities the role
entails. This will help you understand what a recruiter will generally look for. Your research
and knowledge helps you answer the interviewers questions in a better manner.

True, it is not possible to be always prepared for an interview without knowing the specifics. Try to avoid an
unexpected interview as much as possible and take some time to prepare better. But, in cases where it is not
possible, be prepared with the basics at least so that you can perform better than others who are not prepared at
all.

Closing an interview right

How well you fare at the interview is important, but closing an
interview properly is equally crucial. Read on to find how closing an
interview right can work as a catalyst for your being chosen.

Have you ever given a thought about the importance of closing an interview properly? Surprisingly, closing an
interview right can work as a catalyst and boost your chances of getting selected. So while interview is all
about how well you talk, closing an interview right is about leaving an impression on the interview. Read on to
understand how you can do it.

By the end of the interview, you always get a fair idea of how successful it was. If you think that there are
chances of you being selected, then go forward to show some proactiveness. Ask the time required by them to
make the hiring decision and remember to bring back their business card. Closing an interview powerfully and
with the right attitude can fetch you some brownie points.

In most cases, it is the interviewer who signs off an interview. Break the rule and instead ask whether they have
any concerns or doubts regarding your profile. This is a fantastic chance to show your honesty and positivity.
You can dispel their fears and apprehensions with some intelligent question.

As asking questions shows that you have more than just a passing interest in the job, answering questions in the
right manner also shows your forthright nature. Never be mum on questions like "Why are you interested in
the company?" and "What can you offer? These are usually the ending questions of the interviewer. (Also
read: Why do you want to work here?)

Do not let discouragement reflect on you. Not even if the company does not make a move to discuss the salary
details or date of joining. Sometimes interview personnel need to confirm it with the office before making any
sort of proposal. So keep up with your expression of positivity. (Also read: Tips for negotiating your salary)

Conduct a follow up after the interview within a specified period of time. Remember the little points to be
observed during the closing process to ensure a call back from them.

Finance and banking: Understanding recruiter

requirements
There are many qualities that a professional in the finance and banking
industry must possess, and as hiring experts confirm, being honest and
forthright during the hiring stages, ranks high in the checklist.
Whether it is providing information in the resume, answering hiring managers questions during interview or
assisting clients with asset management, the sensitive nature of a financial service or banking job places some
core values at the top of recruiters candidate screening checklist. These include:

Strong ethics

Attention to detail

Accountability

Heres how you can incorporate these qualities in your job search and application and make a positive impression
during the selection process:

Your resume - honest, factual, straightforward

The initial screening of a resume by a recruiter involves framing questions around the
information provided by the candidate. As Sandip Mallik- Director, HR, Aviva India says,
Depending on the role in question, I spend considerable time reading resumes as it
helps me think through the questions that need to be asked during an interview.
Understanding both - the positions requirements and your career aspirations will
help you place the right amount of information. Its not only about what you want the
recruiter to read about you, but also about addressing questions recruiters may have about
your profile. Even small details like experience at varied job locations can be viewed as an
advantage from a recruiters standpoint. We look for people who come from finance
academic background, preferably MBA, and also for people who have worked on
multiple key projects in large banking or financial service companies. Sometimes,

even having worked in multiple geographies becomes a preference, says Kamal Karanth,
MD, Kelly Services India. (Read Kamal Karanth's complete interview)

Include details about your qualifications, experience and skills but only as much
as so to build the hiring managers interest to explore your profile further and invite you for
the interview round. According to Archana Shiroor Head - HR, Barclays Corporate India, A
lengthy, five-page resume does not necessarily mean that one has handled many roles and
is quite experienced. It is important for a resume to be crisp and to the point. (Read
her complete interview)

Forthrightness in presenting details is not just an appreciable quality, but an

expected one. Very often, we find that resumes do not have the year of passing covered
explicitly in the academic credentials, the work-experience mentioned does not add up to
the total number of working years and lastly, the resumes are too long, and tend to miss out
on the recruiters attention span, says JM Prasad Chief Human Resources, ING Vysya
Bank. (Read his complete interview)

Focus on including result-oriented information, achievements or even the potential impact

of your work.

Interview round - Showcasing preparedness, experience, dependability

The sensitive nature of bank transactions make honesty and ethics crucial factors. It is also imperative
to display a responsible attitude towards your previous employer. As a job applicant, be perpared to
elaborate and consolidate upon the facts that you presented in the resume.

Overconfidence or displaying extra smartness is something that puts me off. One should really be genuine
throughout the interview. Answering a question before the interviewer has actually finished, shows indiscipline
and also desperation to get the job. Boasting about oneself would lead to minus points. One must act in a
balanced manner even if he or she has an excellent proven track record and s/he must substantiate
achievements with proof that includes certificates or testimonials etc. Finally, if you dont know answers to a
question, dont make wild guesses; be honest in sharing that you dont know the correct response, says
Sunaina Mattoo, Executive Vice President - Human Resources at Bajaj Capital Ltd. (Read her complete
interview)

A job hopper Yes or no?

While job hopping commonly raises eyebrows over a candidates commitment levels, an honest and forthcoming
attitude will land you in good stead with the interviewer. It is facts that recruiters look at, and candidates should

be able to provide rational reasoning for their career choices. Frequent job changes can be explained as the
need to explore the industry in order to find the right job and organisational culture.

As Sandip Mallik, Director, HR, Aviva India, says, Job hopping is a norm in todays day and time. We do not
see this as a negative if there are good reasons for every change. (Read his complete interview here)

10 things recruiters wont tell you

Recruiters' basic job is to find the right person for the right job and
they can assess a candidate's marketability very fast. But the last thing
they would tell you is where you went wrong. Check these out to be
cautious.
Recruiters have one job: Find the right person for the position. Their performance is evaluated on how efficiently
and effectively they match top talent to job requirements. Ironically, in the current economy, recruiters are finding
their jobs harder than ever. Im serious. Theres too much talent for them to weed through. What used to be
finding a needle in a haystack has now become finding a needle in ten haystacks.

As a result, recruiters have to determine a candidates marketability much quicker. Translation: candidates must
pay even more attention to the power of the first impression factor. People skills, attire, etc. all become more
important when competition amongst talent is this fierce. Reality check: Those who are failing to make a good
first impression get put in the no pile and are never contacted again. So, if you arent getting called back by a
recruiter after either an in-person meeting or talking by phone, theres a good chance that, in addition to the fact
you didnt have the right skills, you also might have displayed one or more traits on the I cant market them list.
Now, most recruiters wont tell you what you did wrong. Why? For one reason, they arent paid to give you the
bad news. Second, they dont want to burn a bridge. And third, as I mentioned, they just dont have the time.

And yet, how are you going to fix the problem if you dont know it exists?

Ive put together the most common reasons why a recruiter writes a candidate off. You may not like what you
read, but the good news is with a little attention and practice, all of them can be improved upon. So, ask yourself,
Am I guilty of the following?

Top 10 things a recruiter wont tell you

Your interview attire is outdated/ messy/ too tight/ too revealing/ too flashy.

Your physical appearance is disheveled/ outdated/ sloppy/ smelly/ overpowering (i.e. too
much perfume).

Your eye contact is weak/ shifty/ intense.

Your handshake is limp/ too forceful/ clammy.

You say ah/ um/ like too much.

You talk too much/ use poor grammar/ say inappropriate things (i.e. swearing) when you
answer interview questions.

You appear overconfident/ pushy/self-centered/ insecure/ aloof/ ditzy/ scatter-brained/

desperate.

You talk too fast/ too slow/ too loud/ too soft.

You giggle/ fidget/ act awkward/ have facial tics/ lack expression.

You lack sincerity/ self-confidence/ clarity/ conviction.

So, how do you fix these?

Well, given 93% of communication is non-verbal, I can tell you that many of the negatives above can be
improved by focusing on one thing: attitude. If you are angry, fearful, or confused, its going to show. You must
find a way to feel good about yourself and your ability to contribute. This comes from knowing your strengths
and embracing them. It also comes from doing your homework on a company so you can articulate clearly and
with enthusiasm why you would be a great fit for the job. I realize this is easier said than done, but it can be done.

I hope Ive convinced you to take a hard look at the 10 reasons above and to commit to finding a way to improve
your first impression factor. Its your career. Own your actions and take control of your professional development.
I promise, recruiters will take notice.

Telephonic interview tips

Telephonic interview has emerged as a popular way to conduct the
preliminary round during the interview process. Read these tips to
make your telephonic interview a success.
Telephonic interview implies responding to recruiters queries through phone. It is an effective method to measure
a persons communication and listening skills. The process can be automated or non-automated. An automated
telephonic interview involves answering a series of standard questions and in a non-automated telephonic
interview, there is a direct contact with the recruiter.

A telephonic interview can happen in three circumstances:

When you initiate a call to the recruiter and they show interest. The call from thereon is an interview.

A company calls you based upon a previous contact.

You have a designated time to talk to a company's representative.

How can you make telephonic interview successful?

Prepare well

Never jump to take an unexpcted and unplanned call. Excuse yourself and ask them to reschedule the call.

Keep your resume handy.

Rehearse answers related to your accomplishments as it is a commonly asked question and a good way to
impress the recruiters.

Keep your research material ready to act as reference point.

Stay ready to take notes.

Ward off anything and everything in the room that can distract.

Keep yourself calm in body and mind.

Make sure you need no break during the water, not even for getting a glass of water ot attending to
nature's call.

Turn off call waiting on your phone, warm up your voice while waiting for the call, have a glass of
handy, turn off your stereo, TV and any other possible interruption.

water

Finally, be ready with the answers to the basic questions and to rehearse them in front of the mirror to gain
confidence.

Perform well

Listening skill is a crucial component during the interview process. Comprehend the questions well and
give to the point answers.

Avoid talking in between and let the recruiter complete his thought or question before you speak.

It is important to speak at a slow pace and be clear so that the interviewer can understand what you are
saying.

Do not use unprofessional language and sound courteous and polite. Thank the interviewer once the
interview process is complete.

Most importantly keep your tone pleasant as most interviewers are experienced and can easily judge the comfort
level of the candidate, so it is important to smile and stay relaxed. Give your best during the telephonic
interview as it will pave the way for further interactions.

Tips to face job interviews confidently

We dread interviews and when we are scared, we bungle. Confidence
and preparedness are the only two things that can help you keep cool
and succeed at interviews. Here's how.
Most of us dread job interviews but its the key to a successful job. Hence it is important to approach interviews
in the correct manner and with the right attitude, as that is the key to success.

These tips will help you to stay calm and focused instead of being a nervous wreck. Follow these to remain cool
and confident in your interview and so achieve success.

Go prepared: Find out about the companys vision, goal, products, the work culture and
the management from the website. Then from the job description, analyse how suitable you
are as a candidate. You cant be prepared for all questions as there will be some googlies
and bouncers hurled at you. But there are some common interview questions and if youre
prepared for them, half the battle is won. Youll be less tongue-tied and appear more
confident if youre ready with the response. You can check out what the interviewer wants to
know for the same.

Be thorough with your CV: You should be familiar with whatever is mentioned in the CV.
Read it thoroughly so that youre not stumped by any question regarding your past
employment and education.

Act confident: Even if you dont feel confident, act as one emanating confidence. Your
body language should be accurate and you should be making a positive impact during the
interview. Sit straight on the chair and look into the eyes of the interviewer.
Remember, youve nothing to lose and go with that mind-set. This causes less palpable
stress.

Sleep well: A good nights sleep is essential to stay fresh in body and mind. Never leave
the preparation planning for the last minute. Be ready with your interview dress and keep
your shoes polished. Women should clip their nails and remove nail paint if its uneven at
places and smoothen it well in advance. Never eat late or have an extra drink the night
before the interview as that might leave you with a hangover. Try to remain calm and happy
to be successful.

Be on time: Travelling to the interview can be stressful, especially if youve to commute a

long distance. Try and do a trial run a day in advance so that you know how long it
takes to reach there. Thus, you can plan as per your schedule and convenience.
Remember, arriving late for whatever reasons is totally inexcusable.

Take deep breaths: If youve been made to wait in the reception, have a glass of water
and take some deep breaths so that your voice is regulated and you dont seem shaky. Also,
prepare for some small talk, like what you would be saying about yourself, etc.
This is essentially to break the ice and youre at ease instead of sounding like a diffident
person.

Prefer mornings to the second half: Mostly you wouldnt be given an option, but in case
you are, take the morning slot to an afternoon one. Though it doesnt always matter but
youre fresh in the morning and after youre through, you can plan the rest of the day
accordingly. If the interview's scheduled in the the second half, you carry the baggage of the
schedules and plans for the entire day as well as the interview stress and come across as
jaded.

Lastly, it goes without saying, be relaxed and don't worry too much. The job interview is for both parties, ie. both
for you and the employer to decide on the respective suitabilities; so go with an open mind and try to be calm.

3 Ways to build rapport and ace the interview

While your skills and experience are important elements to securing a
job offer, your ability to build rapport that is natural and engaging
with your interviewer can greatly impact the impression you leave
behind.
People hire people they like. So while your skills and experience are important elements to securing a job offer,
just as important is your ability to build rapport that is natural and engaging with your interviewer. The rapport
you establish during an interview can greatly impact the impression you leave behind.

Building rapport occurs in many ways. In addition to having subject matter that you both can relate to, it is also
very much about body language. The handshake you offer when you first meet your contact, how you stand and
sit, your facial expression and eye contact, to where you place your arms, hands, legs and feet is all part of body
language to help establish the confident and engaged impression you want to leave with the interviewer. The more
engaged you are and the more similarities the interviewer sees in terms of your body language, the easier it is to
establish rapport.

Effectively building rapport is what gives many candidates the leg-up in the companys interview process. Even if
the candidate does not have as much experience as another candidate, he is seen as more favorable because hes
been able to connect with the interviewer in a way that is more relatable and can be seen as fitting along with the
rest of the people at the company. Those who do the hiring want to know that the candidate is someone they
themselves would enjoy working with.

Ace your interviews by applying confident and positive body language with relevant topics that help build
effective rapport. You will come out of the interview leaving your contact with the best possible impression for
consideration to a job offer. Meaningful topics of relevance to help build rapport during an interview include:

Current events on the company and/or industry

Before you go in for an interview, look over the companys website for news events. Most company websites
have a section with press releases. Did the company just sign a significant partnership, bring in a key individual
from the industry or launch a new product? These are topics that can help build rapport and show you are on
top of whats going on at the company or industry. It shows you have a sincere interest in the company.

Challenges of the position and challenges the company faces

Asking questions about challenges and then turning around the discussion to clearly point out how you may have
experience handling the issues is an easy way to show your contact that you have a desire to learn, face problems
and bring solutions.

Information about your contact

Establishing small talk with your interviewer may be done by asking questions such how she came to work for the
company or her experience with particular projects. If you are conducting an interview in your interviewers
office, take note of any family photos showing children or locations you may relate you. You may draw up small
talk simply by commenting on the beautiful smiles of the children in the photo, asking how old they are, and

sharing information on the age of children you may have of your own. You can also ask if a photo was taken at a
certain destination and add comment on how it relates to you whether its your hometown or if you went on
vacation there recently. Small talk is a time where an interviewer can get a better feel for your personality and a
chance to establish a stronger bond by showing how you two may have similarities. Many questions during the
interview may be standard and seem a bit rehearsed, so slightly stray from the norm with small talk during the
earlier part or latter part of the interview.

Theres generally a clear sense of what is expected out of an interview. The employer wants to know how serious
you are about this opportunity by your preparedness for the interview and what you can offer to the company
through your skills and experience. Now, just let them know you are someone who can work well with the team
and you will be on the right path to acing the interview.

How to get interview calls

You have the required skills but still don't get interview calls. You
update your CV regularly highlighting your achievements yet don't get
called. The arduous wait for an interview call continues. But why?
What is it that is missing in your CV that fails to hook the potential recruiters getting past the pile of
resumes? These simple resume tips can help get you that elusive call, cutting out the call-wait-period.

Have a killer objective that can catch an employer's fancy: Your CV must have a
simple, precise yet ambitious statement, reading like a win-win situation for you and the
organisation, tweaking it each time you are applying for a job. Remember, the CV should
essentially target one concerned job. An example of a targeted objective:
Senior Software Engineer with 10 years experience in developing leading-edge
technologies seeks a leadership role.

Use the right keywords in your resume: Identify words matching your skill set and
abundantly sprinkle technical jargons if you're a techie. Many employers/job agencies these
days, glance through CVs trying to locate the exact words and sometimes when computers
do the tallying, it is essential that the right keywords are in place. For more on that check
out, Keywords for your resume.

Beautify your resume using the right fonts, font sizes, design and lay-out. If you
cannot decide on your own after going through the websites extensively, seek professional
help. The sole idea is to make it pleasant to the reader, holding his/her attention otherwise
its another paper trashed into the bin. For reference you can see Guide to CV preparation
and How to write an effective CV.

Submit your CV to major job sites after registering yourself as this is an important
search tecnhique. There are privacy settings available these days and in case you dont
want your present employer to know about your online CV, you can keep it privy. Most fields
in the job sites require you to do a copy-paste job from your resume but certain columns
like resume title and keywords are vital. This is your chance to write what you want and
where you want to go from here in the next 5 years. So, do a deft job to see yourself
moving. (Also read: Tips to get your online resume noticed)

Update your resume on a regular basis. Focus on trainings taken/imparted,

accomplishments and new things learnt, penning down even the smallest achievements. An
updated resume is featured higher in the job sites. Even if you do not have much to update,
just log in to the account and do minor changes so that the CV doesnt get stagnant in the
portal for a long time. Ideally, once every month press the update resume button, so that
the CV is in circulation.

A follow-up call can seal it in your favour. After sending the CV to a prospective
employer, always make a follow-up call. Remember, it's often the conversation that gets
you the interview. Your call is suggestive about your initiative and drive as also interest for
the job; but never call the HR person or an in-house recruiter. To get hired, you need to talk
with an actual hiring manager; find out who the hiring manager is, before sending the
resume and address him/her in the cover letter enclosing your CV.

Maintain a list of employers to whom you have sent the resume for follow-up.

Your job search is essentially your headache. Take control and drive the process yourself with the above
mentioned steps. You will soon hear the phone ring getting you that most awaited interview call.

First impressions: Youve got 30 seconds to make the

right one
The importance of first impressions goes beyond your hiring manager.
Everyday work situations also require you to develop positive
associations with coworkers, vendors, clients, etc. Here are some tips on
the same.
Psychology Today says we process small clues, everything from tone of voice to posture, and in a snap we form a
larger picture in our minds. This means that hiring managers may draw conclusions, and finalize their opinions, in
under a minute.

One study found that people shown 20 second video segments of job applicants formed similar opinions to hiring
managers who were given 20 full minutes with the applicants. Now thats a snap decision.

Beyond the boardroom

The importance of first impressions goes beyond your hiring manager. When you get the job youll need to
impress your coworkers, vendors, clients, etc.

Honestly, its just as important in the non-work world. How long does it take you to make a yay or nay decision
when youre introduced to a potential date?

The bottom line is that you need to keep your first impression top of mind and walk into each situation prepared
for your review.

The eyes have it

Good posture and strong eye contact are key physical attributes to think about. Dressing appropriately is always
high on the list impression triggers. And good personal hygiene? We dont need to mention that, right? Bed Head
may be a great line of beauty products, but actual unwashed hair wont cut it.

On the flip side of that, too much personal hygiene can be a bad thing. I once interviewed a job candidate whose
perfume was so strong I had to keep leaving the room to get fresh air.

Relax
Take a deep breath. Weve all seen people who come off as stiff or even arrogant in an attempt to make a good
impression. Take a breath and try to relax. The more relaxed you are, the more naturally confident youll appear.

Be attentive
Ask questions and listen to the answers. Making other people feel like the center of attention is a great way to
become desirable yourself. People love to talk about themselves, help them out by asking questions and listening
to them attentively.

Watch your language

Were judged not only by what we say, but also by how we say it. In the business world our language is viewed as
a sign of intelligence, education and culture. This doesnt mean that being overly formal or sounding like a
walking dictionary is a good thing. Its not. But neither is sounding like you didnt finish elementary school.

Shake on it
You hear this all the time; youve got to have a good handshake. Yet people still struggle with this simple act. Get
it right! All the good work youve done can be undone in an instant if you offer a limp, clammy or fingers only
handshake. Make your handshake firm and solid. Period.

Theres an old saying you only get one chance to make a first impression. Now we know that the one chance
comes and goes in an instant.

What do IT recruiters seek in an interview

candidate?
Take a look at few core areas that interviewers investigate closely so as
to determine a candidates alignment for a role, along with how IT job
seekers commonly lose marks in the selection process.
While all interviews require prior preparation, a technical interview calls for additional efforts to ensure that you
secure the IT job that is right for your expertise, know-how and experience.

What are some core areas that interviewesrs look at closely so as to determine a candidates alignment for a role,
and where do candidates commonly lose marks in the interview selection process? Some IT recruitment experts
lend their views on how some key qualities help them distinguish the right candidate from the remaining
applicants.

A problem solver, not theoretical expert

Candidates brush up the fundamentals in the specific language or programme, but hiring managers of today
look beyond a candidates ability to merely remember the specifics of a programme or language; rather
assessment questions are designed to test the candidates ability to come up with practical solutions to

troubleshoots and follow the most effective methodology. For example, it is routine to be given a coding
problem to solve. A written test and group discussion are elimination rounds for interviews for most IT
organisations. Tests have sections that address a candidates comprehension, analytical and numerical abilities,
says Sujitesh Das, Head - HR, Microland. (Read his complete interview)

Being the only means to gauge a freshers subject knowledge and prospects with the company, assessment tests
are of particular importance to organisations when conducting campus recruitments, A written test is primarily
administered while sourcing for fresh talent from campuses to assess their communication skills, analytical skills,
attitude and ability to handle complex situations, says Sucheta Shetty, VP - HR, TAKE Solutions. (Read her
complete interview)

A strong communicator of skills listed in the resume

Very often, candidates fail to clear interviews due to inaccurate or incorrect information provided in their
resumes. Interview panel focuses on key traits and behaviour, which a candidate must demonstrate to succeed in
the position being interviewed for. Sometimes, candidates end up discussing about areas in which they have
little knowledge and experience. Too much of self-talk can also be seen as a negative attribute if the role
needs a good team player, says Ajit Chouhan, Senior HR professional, Technology & IT. (Read his complete
interview)

Thus, recruiters look for concise responses from candidates after they have that remain focused on the topic in
question and fully comprehended the questions requirements and gauged the amount of information that is
needed to be conveyed.

A well prepared candidate

Another mistake that can affect a candidates chances is being unprepared with questions for the interviewer and
also answers to questions interviewer might ask to gauge his/her keenness for the role. Recruiters, in fact, expect
applicants to carry out research on both the role and the company applied to. Most of the times, a candidate has
sufficient time to prepare for an interview. Having a fair idea about the competitors, business, etc is very
important. It also shows to the interviewer that one has taken time out to prepare for the interview, says
Sujitesh. Researching a prospective employer gives candidate sufficient inputs about the organisations culture,
vision and employee expectations. Besides, it demonstrates to the employer that the candidate is genuinely
interested in working for the company.

"It has become a norm wherein both the candidate and the organisation conduct a detailed research as one
inappropriate selection will cost both. It enables both the candidate and the company to understand the fitment,
not only in terms of expertise, but also in addressing issues like that of cultural alignment," says Sucheta.

Top 10 interview questions

Your best weapon to mastering that job interview is to thoroughly
prepare and practice your answers to the most commonly asked
questions by employers. So develop answers to these 10 most asked
questions and get set to go.
It can be easy to convince ourselves that the job interview doesnt matter so much, as long as our resume is
outstanding, our dress is impeccably professional, and that we are nice people. After all, nice people do win in the
end, dont they? Unfortunately, this couldnt be further from the truth. Even though the resume, attire, and
likeability factor all play a part in an employers decision to hire someone, the answers that you provide to the
questions during the interview will demonstrate what the employer is most interested in: your confidence, skills,
and knowledge of the job.

Your best weapon to mastering the job interview is to practice, practice, practice your answers to the most
commonly asked questions by employers. The most certain way to sabotage your chances to win over a potential
employer is to try and wing the interview. Your answers can appear aimless and without direction, making you
look unprepared or worse, unqualified.

Prepare yourself by developing answers to these 10 most commonly asked questions:

1. Tell me a little something about yourself.

This is probably one of the most dreaded questions of all time. We quiver and sweat in our seats wondering what
the employer really wants to know. Hey, relax! For starters, this is a great opportunity for you to sell yourself to
the employer. Talk about your key accomplishments and strengths and how these factors will benefit the employer
in the desired position. Write down ahead of time what you plan to say; perfect it; then practice it every chance
you get. (Also read: Tell me about yourself)

2. Why do you want to leave your current job?

This question is basically a wolf in sheeps clothing. It appears harmless enough, but it can damage your potential
in a heartbeat if youre not careful. By all means, keep your answers to this question as positive as possible.
Above all, do not dwell on how much you hate your current boss! The interviewer wants to hire a team player to
the position, not a negative and vindictive hater. (Also read: Why did you leave your last job)

3. Are you still employed and if not, why not? If you are, great, but if you arent, you can still use your answer
to this question to shine a light on your positive features. For example, if you were laid off or terminated, focus
less on the actual termination and more on what you learned from the whole process. Youll look mature and wise
in the employers eyes! (Also read: Handling work gaps and job hops)

4. Do you have any budgeting experience? If you havent, be honest; but you can answer in a way that shows
that you have had some exposure to adhering to a budgeton a project, for example. If you do have budgeting
experience, discuss your fiscal responsibility.

5. Have you ever managed anyone? This question is most important to those who are seeking a supervisory type
of position. If you have managerial experience, elaborate on how many people you have supervised and what
their positions were in the spectrum of the organizational chart. However, if you havent had direct managerial
practice, talk up how much you were a part of the decision process of a team project, or how you organized
volunteers for a fundraiser.

6. What are your strengths as an employee? To adequately answer this question, you need to be aware of the
strengths you possess in the following areas: personality, experience, and skills. Once that information is known,
match your strengths to the requirements of the position for which you are interviewing.

7. What are your weaknesses? Obviously, no one likes to admit that they have any weaknesses, especially in
front of a potential employer. So what do you do? You can provide ONE trait about yourself that is the least
important to the position. Refrain from canned responses such as you are a perfectionist or a workaholic. (Also
read: What is your weakness)

8. Discuss how you make important decisions. If you are interviewing for a supervisory role, you definitely
want to come across as someone who is able to ask for input from others, yet is comfortable making the final
decisions. Also, consider the type of position and company. For example, is it a budgetary role at a financial
institution? In that case, you probably will want to emphasize that you exercise great care and caution when
making big decisions.

9. Where do you want to be five years from now? Suffice it to say, do not answer this question with, Retired.
Keep your answers positive and simple, with just a tinge of ambition. Think along the lines of a motivated
versus rat race mentality. (Also read: Where do you see yourself five years from now)

10. What have been the biggest accomplishments of your career so far? Focus on accomplishments that
directly relate to the open position. Discuss the challenge you were presented with, your actions, and the end
result. Did you streamline processes? Devise a way to increase customer satisfaction? Were you recognized by
management for your efforts? The way you answer this question will distinguish you from other applicants since
your answer will require you to go beyond the basic job responsibilities.

As you can see, the interview is more than just showing up on time in the right clothes. It is your best and only
opportunity to convince an employer that he or she should hire you. If you were selected for an interview,
consider yourself lucky because you are halfway to the finish line. Make sure you are prepared with relevant and
well-thought-out answers to bring in a home run interview.

How to handle interviews without getting stressed

Facing an interview is often stressful. Here are some ways to help you
reduce the stress of facing interviews. This can be done by proper
preparation and following these tips during the interview and after.
A recent poll on shine.com reveals that more than 60% people are scared of facing an interview. For many,
interview is synonymous with stress; you first get stressed over not getting an interview call and then stress
about its preparation. Worse is, when at the time of the interview - you either freeze with panic or chatter
aimlessly, losing your train of thought.

Here are some valuable tips to help you handle the interview process in a stress free way.

Pre-interview tips:

Practice mock interviews with family/friends or in front of the mirror, so that the actual
interview doesnt scare you.

Know your resume thoroughly. Be prepared for questions on work experience, job
responsibilities and personal attributes. Be ready to prove your credentials with examples.

Research thoroughly on the company and industry. Find out the latest news and
happenings of the company you are interviewing for and also be aware of trends of that
industry. Also be ready with a few questions you would like to ask the interviewer, at the end
of the interview.

Plan your attire in advance. If you are confused about what to wear, stick to the
conservative. For more check, dressing up for interviews

Visualise yourself brimming with confidence and success in the interview. Practice
succeeding in your imagination and you'll soon be doing it in reality.

If you are unwell or not at your best, it is better to re-schedule your interview.

Facing the interview tips:

Timing is important: Don't take on undue stress before a big interview. Arrive just 5 - 10
minutes before the scheduled time. Arriving early makes you worry more and arriving late
may find you racing, your heart pounding from the last-minute dash. Ten minutes early is
enough to help you catch your breath and acclimatise you.

Relax: Only if you are relaxed, can you exude confidence. Show that you're calm, composed
and in command during the interview. Breathe deeply and slowly; sit straight without
crossing your arms or legs. Your hands and jaws should be relaxed with no clenching. (Also
read: Managing your body language)

Speak slowly but clearly and pause for breath. Do not run with your answers, making
them look like a practised speech. Be clear, take appropriate pauses, have a pleasant
countenance and dont look grim or too serious.

Facing a tough question: Dont flub or grapple for words. Pause, but dont panic. Not
everything can go as per your plan. Tackle tough questions after taking a deep breath and
focus on what is being asked. In case you have absolutely no idea of the answer, be honest
to state that and move on. (Also read: What the interviewer wants to know )

Post-interview tips:

Thank the interviewers and follow up properly. See, tips for an impressive interview
closure.

Get feedback. Even if you do not clear the interview, ask the interviewer for his or her
overall impression and take his feedback. Then you can approach your next meeting with
greater confidence.

Prepare, practise and do positive visualisation to succeed in making your dream a reality.

Being a good listener in interviews

Listening carefully to what the interviewer is saying, not only helps you
provide comprehensive answers, but also enables you to ask the right
questions and take a well informed decision about the job in question.
Sure, you will prepare for common questions asked in an interview, and say the right things that will help you get
hired. But have you realised the importance of listening in an interview to be successful?

Why is listening important for successful interviews?

To fully understand the question being asked, before you begin to answer. A
common mistake many anxious candidates commit while trying to make a good impression
is to start thinking about the answer while the interviewer is still midway with the question.
It is important to have a clear interpretation of the question being asked to ensure that you
address every aspect of it, and deliver a direct and specific response.

It reflects through your body language. Listening goes beyond keeping your ears open.
It also means conveying your attentiveness through non-verbal cues like sitting straight,
leaning in a little to show keenness, and acknowledging in time to what is being said. Sloppy
body language conveys disinterest and incompetency to the interviewer. Being attentive
during the course of the interview shows that you are genuinely interested in the position.

Pick up crucial information about the company and role. The interview is a time to
not only be evaluated by the company, but also an opportunity to learn about what the
hiring manager has to say about the companys work culture, the roles demands, and even
red flags related to the job or the organisation. So, listen carefully to the words spoken and
also the interpretations of those that arent.

Here are some ways by which you can keep your listening skills as sharp as the answers you give:

Listen till the interviewer finishes speaking. Do not interrupt. Not only is it rude and will break the flow of
conversation, it will prevent you from understanding what the interviewer really wanted to ask. Wait till the
interviewer has finished speaking before you take your turn.

Listen, comprehend, or ask for clarification. Ensure that you have fully understood the question being put
forth; else politely ask for clarification. Another way to make sure that you have noted all the points that you need
to address for the question asked, rephrase and spell out the requirements of the question to the interviewer, and
only then begin your response to the same.

For example, you may say something like Would like me to begin by providing a detailed description of the
projects handled, followed by challenges faced and overcome during each? Keep your body language in tune
with the conversation. Sit straight while leaning forward slightly, acknowledge by means of expressions and
verbal confirmations (yes, I understand, and absolutely) showing an engaged manner.

Read between the lines. You can seek additional information from the interviewer to understand the reason for
the question being asked. For example, when asked about being willing to work long hours that extend beyond
routine work timings, or how good a team player you are, take cues from what is being asked; go ahead and gain
clarity about expectations from the role as also the work environment and team culture in the department.

To hear what the speaker has to say and also letting him/her see that you follow all that is being communicated
while you are being interviewed is a valuable skill that will go a long way in not just landing the job but also in
subsequent career advancement.

Last minute tips before an interview

Enhance your interview skills with these last minutes tips to jet set your
preparation for the scheduled interview. Read the points to ensure a
positive interaction in the interview.
It is normal to be a tad anxious if not nervous, before appearing for any interview. We tend to soak up all
information about the company and the proposed KRA before going for an interview. We do all we can to put
ourselves in the best possible light. Some emerge as winners while some fail to win the recruiter. Here are some
last minute tips which can further assist you in preparing for an interview.

Customizing your answer. Everyone at a subconscious level tries to mould themselves to

the job they are being interviewed for. The answers and the resume get tailored according

to the job profile. While it is good to customize them, remember, do not give the recruiter an
altogether wrong picture of you. Doing it for a couple of hours is manageable, but doing it
for 40 hours in a week is hard and tiresome. Even if you do get the job, you will not be able
to excel in it, if uninterested.

Creating the perfect answer. Some interviewers throw questions such as Tell me
about your weak attributes. Answering questions like these can be tricky. It is normally
advised to point out a characteristic which can be beneficial to the company, though not as
an individual. Do not go overboard however and include some honesty in the answer; for
example you can say that you tend to go over all details even when it is unnecessary. Such
a habit results in loss of time which can be used for something constructive. So also, every
question cannot have a perfect answer, but at least give an honest one. Being honest gives
them a better foresight of what you are, and does not set up wrong expectations.

Avoiding job gaps. It is okay to mention that you were without a job or had taken a break
in the resume. It is easy to cover-up a small time gap, but if the break lasted for a year or
more, then it is best to come out clean to avoid embarrassment later.

Talking too much about the current employer. Mention your present boss in clipped
sentences. Indicating too much of allegiance to him/her or else cribbing about him/her
can create misgivings in the recruiter's mind. Do not venture into detailed discussions on
your present boss; rather focus on the job you are being interviewed for.

15 Ways to win at job interviews

In a job interview, the product you are selling is You. The more you are
able to communicate professionalism with personality, distinction and
skill, the better your chance of getting the job. 15 tips to get it right.
The interview process begins when you accept the interview, and ends when the employer decides to either hire
you or look for someone more suitable. The more you are able to communicate professionalism with personality,
distinction and skill, the better your chance of getting the job.

Before the Interview:

Use the 3 Ps - Plan, Prepare, and Practice

Prepare for the interview; research the company and prepare questions based on your
research.

Do mock interviews in order to prepare for all questions, especially uncomfortable ones.
(Also read: Tips to answer some typical interview questions)

Dress professionally even if the company dress code is business casual.

Arrive early! (12-15 minutes before the interview)

Give your interviewer a firm handshake. A powerful handshake and a genuine smile will get
you off to a good start.

Beware of your Body Language; sit erect, stand and walk with confidence, lean forward
toward the interviewer. (Also read: Managing your body language)

Build rapport - use powerful, effective communication techniques.

Be a good listener. Answer only whats asked, in a brief but effective manor.

Show enthusiasm and sincere interest. Dont act desperate.

Take notes. You may need to refer to them later in the interview.

Communicate your skills, qualifications, credentials and the benefits you offer.

Demonstrate your accomplishments; how you improve sales, reduce costs, improve
productivity, solve organizational problems, etc.

Make eye contact. It demonstrates confidence, trust, and power.

If you want the position, ask for it - directly. (Also read: Want the job? Then ask for It!)

After the Interview:

Send a follow-up thank you letter. The letter should state what interests you about the
position, why you are suitable for the job, and your appreciation for the interviewers time.

Why did you leave your last job?

"Why do you want to leave your job?" or "Why do you want to

change?" are the most basic questions during an interview but
also the trickiest ones; as you can be eliminated from
consideration, with a poorly conceived response.
Picture this: You are working in an MNC for the last 5 years at a fairly senior position. Youve seen it all and
helped the organisation reach the zenith. You like your job but theres hardly anything to challenge you further.

You contemplate moving to a new environment with more challenges. Or maybe, you are in a contrastingly
different situation: You are a fresher and you have joined the organisation to gain valuable experience. But you
are not gaining much; the exposure and your skills mismatch and your talent remains unutilised. You want to
move to an area of your core competency.

Now, whatever the reasons, whether you are a fresher or a pro; the bigger picture is that you want to move on. But
as people frequently change jobs, hiring managers are increasingly concerned about your reasons for leaving a job
and moving to the next one. So, wherever you go for an interview, the ghost of your present job raises its head
with questions like, "Why do you want to leave your job?" or "Why do you want to change?" and haunts you till
your prospective employers are satisfied with your reasoning. These are the most basic questions during an
interview but also the trickiest ones, as you stand to be eliminated from consideration, with a poorly conceived
response. Will your answer stand up to the prospective employers scrutiny?

Whether you leave on your own will or have been fired, you have to answer and tailor your response to meet this
particular situation. Here are some tips to help you prepare face even sceptical interviewers.

Be concise: Give a 2-3 sentences brief and honest response. Rambling may seem that you
are trying to justify your reasons. Always be direct and focus your answer based on the
future, sounding positive and clear about your goals.

Dont badmouth your employer: Criticizing your employer is an obvious faux pas
showing a lack of maturity that reflects poorly on you. The golden rule to see you through
this tough answering is - never badmouth your boss or your old organisation, even if the
boss was pesky and the organisation meted you a bad deal. Regardless of the reasons,
make it a personal issue and speak highly about the place. No potential employer wants
to hear your gripe about a prior boss, even if the reasons for leaving are justified. Keep
in mind that your interviewer is looking for a positive, motivated and hardworking
candidate. Moreover, it raises concerns that you are difficult to get along with.

No clichs please: No overused phrases like there is no room for growth. Though its a
positive answer as you are ready for more responsibilities, employers may read it as demotivated. Without stating grievances, talk about opportunities you're seeking out.

Dont raise red flags: Steer clear of citing money or a shorter commute as your reason for
seeking a new job. These answers are like alarm bells to recruiters and they might get put
off thinking that you are fishing for a counteroffer to win a higher salary. Also, talking about
commuting time means you are not responsible enough and non-committal.

Prepare well: Any question can throw you off balance during the interview, but the most
plausible one of leaving your old company is very pertinent. Experienced recruiters often
probe this for a better understanding of you. You will be confident and focused if you script
and practice answering this question before it is asked. If your leaving wasn't under the best
of circumstances, prepare some answers to keep the employer's interests ahead of
your own during the interview. (Read: Explaining job hops and work gaps)

Be up front about a job loss: If you are laid-off as a result of the larger circumstances in
the company, emphasize on the overall picture. Try to give the exact number of job cuts, if
available. If you are the only one to suffer the misfortune of a job-cut, leave it at that. Dont
explain if not asked for, but never try to do a cover-up act as "You don't want to be
caught in a lie."

Common interview questions

You cannot guess all questions an interviewer may ask, but there are
some common questions all interviewers ask. So prepare yourself for
the interview, with answers to some of these common questions.
Facing an interview is one of the most interesting and challenging aspects of a job search. In about half an hours
time, you have to convince the recruiter on your key skills, strengths, experiences and how you can be useful to
the organization. Apart from job related questions, you may also need to answer questions about yourself. Your
ability to answer these questions within the available time will help the employer assess your employability and
suitability to the organization.

The best way to approach these questions is to prepare for them in advance so that you can answer confidently,
without taking up too much time. Some of the generic questions that you may face in an interview are listed
below:

Tell me about yourself: Be prepared with information on your education,

accomplishments, work experience etc. Make sure to tell them about your background
and how you have worked towards fulfilling your aspirations. But, do not go overboard, and
try to keep your answer limited to about two to three minutes. (Read more: So, why dont
you tell me about yourself?)

What do you know about our organization?: Do some research on the company
background. Make sure that you know about their products, services and important people
in the organization. Your answer to this question will show that you are interested in the job
and have done your homework well.

What are your key strengths?: Do some research around the profile you are being
interviewed for. List the skills and key strengths required to perform the job efficiently and
then identify how your strong points map to the required job skills. Talk about at least
three points that you think are the most important.

What are your weaknesses?: Do not talk about more than one or two weak points.
Instead, talk about them in a manner that they look like positives. For example, tell
them that you are an impatient person when it comes to winding up work, so when you see
a person not being able to complete work on time, you decide to complete it yourself. (Read
more: What is your weakness)

Why do you want to leave your current organization?: This is a tricky question and
the answer will give your employer a lot of information about your personality and attitude

towards work. The employers generally ask this question to understand if you are a reliable
person or a perpetual job-hopper. Answer it by talking about the new challenges, learning
and the opportunities that you see for yourself in the new organization. Do not talk negative
about your current organization. It raises suspicion in the minds of the employers about
your reliability. (Read more: Why did you leave your last job?)

A small window of interview with the employer can get you an edge over the others. Prepare yourself thoroughly
and do not forget to wear your smile and attitude to make an everlasting impression. (Also read: 15 ways to win at
job interviews)

Instead of trying to build reasons in the air, just say, "Its a career move," without going into the specifics. Always
resort to the truth as it's best to base the answer on real reasons, putting a positive spin on it. So how you deal with
it depends on how you have resolved it with yourself first.

The next step after a job interview

While there is no one-size-fits-all approach to job interviews, one
strategy that works for all is the right process of following up after the
job interview.
You gave your best in the job interview. But now you have to turn that success of your interview into the next
step a job offer. Follow up after the interview is the mantra that sets you ahead of competition. It is a great
opportunity for a candidate to showcase his pro-activeness, enthusiasm and suitability.

There are ways to leave a positive impression on the interviewer even after the interview. Lets figure them out.

Find out about the next step: During the interview or on the follow up email, get information about what
happens next in the hiring process. You can politely ask the interviewer when to contact to know the status of
your application. By asking this, you have successfully demonstrated your professional attitude to the interviewer.
Also, you get a timeline to plan your follow up strategy efficiently.

Gather contact details: Ask for a business card of the interviewer before you leave the room. If due to anxiety
you forget to ask for it, ask the receptionist before leaving and get the interviewers complete job title, full name,
email address and phone number (if possible, as generally it is not easily accessible information). In case of more
than one interviewer, take details of each person who interviewed you.

Jot down points just after the interview: Make notes on the topics of conversation during the interview while
they are fresh in your mind. This will give you a better understanding of your areas of improvement that needs to
be addressed further.

Establish rapport: Send a formal thank you email, which includes your complete name, mailing address, email
address and contact number. Send it the same day so that the interviewer can recognise you easily. Establishing
rapport is a vital step in the interview follow-up process.

Get in touch with your references: Remind your references about the company and the position you have
applied for. Send a word across that the company might contact them in a day or two, so they can be well
prepared to provide best references for you.

Make a call at the specific time: Dont sit back and wait for the company to call you. Show your diligence and
contact the company at the designated time. When you call the company, sound confident and continue to sell
yourself by mentioning how excited you are about the job and reiterate how you would be an asset to the
company.

Last but not the least, keep searching: Even if you are damn sure that you will get the job, continue with the job
search. This way, you can evaluate your market position better and it will also help in negotiating your salary,
once you get the offer.

Professional, but polite follow up with the interviewer, could help you crack the job, so dont get waylaid by
sitting and waiting. Go, grab it!

Explaining work gaps and job hops in the interview

Work gaps or quick job hops sets the alarm bells ringing for a
recruiter; so what can you do if you are caught in such a situation?
Here are some tips to prepare you face the interview grill on your work
gaps or job hops.
In todays fast-paced life, many of us take a sabbatical from work for various reasons and some of us unwittingly
get into a job hop cycle, while searching for the right job opportunity. Though you may have perfectly

understandable reasons, a resume with work gaps or quick job hops sets the alarm bells ringing for a recruiter. So
what can you do if you are caught in such a situation. Here are some tips on how best to handle the situation.
Handling Job Hops
Get the reason right: This is not an easy one to handle and most people try to fumble an explanation on how the
boss or the companys attitude forced them to change. This is not a good line to take, even if it is a true one. As
reiterated in an earlier article Why did you leave your last job?, never portray your past company in a negative
light, as this reflects poorly on you, and leaves the recruiter wondering if you would be saying the same once you
leave them. However if the reasons are something beyond your control eg the financial situation of the company
or a merger with layoffs, then honesty is the best policy.

Take action early: If you have a list of job hops in quick succession, it is best to minimize your image as a job
hopper at the resume stage itself. For example if you have a history that reads like this:
Mar 2008 Oct 2008 / Company A
Nov 2008 Jan 2009 / Company B
Feb 2009 Jul 2009 / Company C
You could possibly leave out the months and mention just the years, reducing it to:
2008 / Company A
2009 / Company C
Once you reach the interview stage, you need to convince the recruiter of your desire for permanence.

Describe the positives: Describe the learnings from your job-hops and how they are a part of your career
building path. Never be defensive or apologetic of the changes. Rather briefly talk about what motivated you to
take up the job and what you learnt.

Talk of permanence: Then move on to a job where you stayed for a long stint and talk enthusiastically of that.
Draw a similarity between that place and the present in either work profile, company profile, work culture,
whatever your research has shown draws maximum parallel with the present company or job, and mention that
you are looking for a similar workplace/company/job. This will help convince the recruiter of your long term
commitment.

Explaining Work Gaps

Opportunities gained: If you have a gap in your resume whatever be the reason a sabbatical or lay-off, be
honest about why there is a break. Then dont in anyway be defensive or say that it was a wrong decision. Take a
positive stand - whatever happens is for the best and talk about the opportunities the break provided you. More
family time you had been missing out on, time to pursue a long forgotten hobby or just time to chill out and take a
break so you can come back fully charged to take on your next career jump.

A conscious decision: Even if you were laid off, let the recruiter know that you have taken a conscious decision
to take a longer break, as you wanted to carefully scan all your opportunities before making your next career
move. You did not want to take up anything that came your way, even though you were laid off, as you wanted to
think through your next career move and take up only what you keenly desire to do and then identify those
companies you would want to work in. This shows you as a career conscious individual while reiterating your
commitment to the job at hand.

Of course, you could add that with the recession the search has perhaps taken a little longer, but you are
convinced that when you take up a job it will be right one and so both you and the company stand to gain.

Finally be convinced of your reasons in your own mind first and have a positive attitude as it will inevitably
reflect in your demeanour and language. An interview is, at the end of the day not just about giving the right
answers but getting your attitude right.

How to ace an interview - the checklist

Job interviews are essentially screening tools where both you and the
employer look for a match. Here's a checklist to help you ace the
interview and win the job you want.
A job interview is a screening tool. For you, it's an opportunity to assess whether or not you want to work for a
company. For the employer, it's an opportunity to decide whether or not they want to hire you. Both sides are
looking for a match.

You can ace an interview and win the job you want even in this economy; even with the competition that wants
the same job as you. You will have to work hard, but it can be done. Know that the work you do upfront and
afterwards will make the "during" (while you are interviewing) much easier for you.

Here's a checklist to help you:

I. Prepare beforehand

Do your homework and find out who you will be interviewing with. You are looking for job
title, responsibilities, accomplishments, as well as anything else that impresses you about
this person.

Know as much about the company as possible. Get on their web site and memorize their
products and services. Look at their press release section for news. Talk to a few people
about what they know. Look online for comments, discussions, blogs, forums, and additional
insights. Don't just look for good news. Look for challenges that the company is facing, and
think about how you might contribute to their success.

Write out the top 3 points you want to make sure you get across.

Write down what makes you different or unique.

Have a story/example for each bullet on the job description and each bullet in you resume.
Include the challenges you were up against, the action you took to solve these challenges,
and the results you achieved. (Also read: Does your resume project you as an achiever?)

Write down answers to questions such as your strengths, weaknesses, where you want to be
in the future, etc. The questions that employers don't always feel comfortable asking. The
same questions you don't always feel comfortable answering. Nevertheless, expect to be
asked these questions anyway. (Also read: Common interview questions)

Write down the answers to the questions you don't want to be asked. If you have a gap in
your resume, have a good response for when you are asked about it. If you were fired, be
prepared to tell the employer why with a positive spin. Don't shy away from these questions
and hope they won't be asked. Expect them to be posed to you and have your answers
mapped out and ready to go.

Write down questions to ask the interviewer; three to five should do. Questions like, "What
are you looking for in a candidate?" "What keeps you up at night?" "What's the biggest
challenge you are facing right now?" These questions may be answered during the
interview, and other questions may come up as the discussion progresses, but these
questions will give you a place to start.

Write down an introduction; an opener that says who you are and what you do. Include your
past title, the type of work you have been doing, why you are excited to be interviewing
with this company.

II. During the interview

Be upbeat, passionate, and excited to be there.

Use your prepared introduction and introduce yourself.

Right after your introduction; say something flattering to the interviewer. Reveal what you
like about the person or the company. Include what impresses you the most. Sincere flattery
starts the interview off in a positive way.

Answer questions and ask them. Remember, it's a two way conversation, and an
opportunity for both parties to see if there is a match. Don't forget to listen and let the
interviewer talk. (Also read: Responding to interview questions)

Make sure you cover anything that was not discussed in the interview before you leave. For
example, did you cover your 3 points? Did you tell the interviewer what makes you

different? Did you handle all objections properly? Did you ask the questions you wanted to
ask? Cover this now; afterwards may be too late.

Tell the interviewer again why you want the job.

Ask what the hiring process is, and when you can follow up with them again.

III. After the interview

Send a thank-you note. Email one version and also send a handwritten version. Thank you
cards work well here.

Include in your email anything you left out during the interview. Add credibility to your email
by mentioning something specific the interviewer said that impressed you.

If you promised to follow up on a specific day and time, keep that promise.

Continue interviewing. No matter how great an interview went, no matter how many people
told you that you are "the one," you do not have the job until you have formally been given
a job offer in writing. Don't let everything ride on one job. Keep going until you are officially
employed.

Deborah Brown-Volkman
Author, Career Coach & President of SurpassYourDreams.com

The first 5 minutes of an interview

First impressions do make a difference and unless you present yourself
as proficient and trustworthy within the first few minutes of walking in
the door, the interviewer is likely to lose interest, no matter what you do
or say.
How you perform in the first 5 minutes often determine the outcome of the entire interview. Ever heard the joke,
Man 1 - how long did you interview that guy for? Man 2 - an hour. But I stopped listening after the first 5
minutes! Well it's sadly true! First impressions do make a difference and unless you present yourself as
proficient and trustworthy within the first few minutes of walking in, the interviewer is likely to lose interest, no
matter what you do or say later.

The key things to keep in mind are that you project the appropriate image and substantiate it with well-thought
out and confident answers.

Dress in appropriate clothes and shoes, A man came dressed in jeans and shirt for a formal interview.
I was so irritated feeling that he didnt even respect the job enough to wear trousers, forget tie. Obviously,
I didnt give him the job! shared an HR Head.

Walk confidently and introduce yourself clearly. Dragging your feet and mumbling your name is not
going to make you appear eager or capable.

When seated, maintain good posture and keep making eye contact. This makes you look more
engaging and professional. As a body language expert will tell you, looking down at your feet when
talking suggests poor self esteem and lack of interest.

Be prepared to discuss anything from your CV or job application form at length. I like to gauge
interviewees based on how they respond to a few initial questions about their interests or school or
something. Only if they answer comfortably and generate a positive vibe, do I start asking more in-depth
questions explained a campus recruitment officer.

But dont be daunted by these first few minutes. Instead, look on them as opportunities. By recognising the
gravity of the first impression, you can avoid many of the pitfalls that come with just winging it. Putting in some
serious thought and investing time, practicing what you are going to do and say during those critical first few
minutes of your interview, can make more of a difference than you may have thought.

Different approach to the interview question: "Tell

me about yourself"
The recruiter is not asking for a chronological recap of your
professional history. Here's a new approach to answer the question
smartly, get the recruiter's attention and get hired!
The dreaded, Tell me about yourself, question stumps a lot of folks. People of all ages and experience levels
blow this one. So, Im thrilled you are concerned about the best way to answer it.

First off, please know they are not asking you for a boring chronological re-cap of your professional history. That
is the quickest way to lose their interest! What an employer is really asking is, Why should I hire you? That
being said, heres my 3-step process for giving them an answer that gets their attention.

STEP 1: Explain what business problems you LOVE to solve.

Enthusiasm for solving a business problem they need help with is the quickest way to get a hiring managers
attention. Lets face it, they arent hiring you for the heck of it. You need to explain how you can make things
better for an employer.

STEP 2: Provide examples of your experience to show them how you know this is a good problem to solve.
Companies hire people who can either save and/or make them money. So, when you provide examples from your
personal or professional past that demonstrate the value your problem-solving skills provide, you are proving
your worth. It also shows you are thinking like an employee who understand that their job is to make things better
for the company.

STEP 3: Explain why you want to leverage your problem-solving expertise for the employer.
Let them know how you hope to grow your skills and abilities by taking your problem-solving skills to the next
level. This lets the employer know you plan to focus on being successful and expanding your value to the
organization if you get hired. Employers love candidates who clearly plan to hold themselves to a higher standard.

If you follow this 3-step guideline, I guarantee youll create a compelling story that will have the employer sitting
up and taking notice. This is your chance to sell you value dont pass it up!

Dress simple but smart at interviews

Do clothes matter when it comes to impressing recruiters? Clothes
reflect your personality and when it is about a job interview, the first
impression is the last. So, choose wise when planning your attire for an
interview.

Clothes reflect your personality and when it is about a job interview, the first impression is the last. So, choose
wise when planning your attire for an interview. On the interview day, besides brushing your accent and
recollecting past achievements, make sure to dress appropriately. Remember, what you pick to wear heavily
influences your chances of getting that job.

What to wear
The best way to determine what to wear is to cross check with the HR manager (prospective interviewer) if there
is any specific attire you need to stick with. If they ask you to come dressed in formals, stick to that. Men can
choose between a business suit or formal shirt and trousers in sober colours. A colour-coordinated tie and belt will
also do the trick. Women are lucky enough to have a wide range of choices, from even within formals. Its not
about what you wear but how you wear it, says Nisha Kundnani, a Mumbai-based fashion stylist. A well-fitted
40s pencil shape skirt in a dark hue, a sophisticated silk blouse in pastel colour, kitten heels, a simple watch and
minimal jewellery will do the trick. Do not ever carry a loud OTT hand bag. Look polished and self-assured
rather than appearing as if youve taken effort for days together to arrive at the look.

What one must also do is confirm if the dress code of the company is restricted to Western formals or allows
Indian formals as well. After you have sorted this out, go with your preferences. Whatever you do, however, be
sure to tie your hair well and if you wish to leave your tresses open, comb these well before the interview. If you
plan to wear a skirt, get your leggings in place. You can dress up or you can dress down but make sure you dont
overdo the look. Makeup should be minimal no cake faces on Dday, unless your prospective job demands that.

Shoe story
Remember those good old schooldays when you were punished for wearing unpolished shoes to school? Ensure
that your shoes are polished well. Women, too, need to have on shining boots or leather pumps. If opting for other
kinds of footwear, steer clear of wedges and platform heels (keep them for nonformal outings). No six inches for
the interview, too. Remember its all about being comfortable through the entire interview process. Low and midsized heels shall do the trick.

What to avoid
Half of your battle will be won if you know what to avoid for the interview. Make sure your clothes are your size,
not skintight or too sloppy. Women must check the length of their skirt and jewellery. If you wear studs in your
chin, tongue or eyebrows, kindly leave them behind. Avoid wearing too strong a perfume or cologne. Opt for
subtle colours and dont wear flashy colours.

Hands count too. Your hands are the first to be exposed to your interviewer so a good clean French manicure is a
must. Wash your hair well and wear it simple in a chic ponytail or a neat blow dry. Dont overdo the makeup,
fresh luminous skin wins hands down as compared to over layered make-up. Dont wear too much perfume or sky
high stilettos no matter what as it comes across as trying too hard. You are going to be judged on your first
appearance and conduct so prepare in advance and on D-day give it your best, Kundnani advises.

Look good, feel comfortable

Being trendy is good as long as you dont look like youre heading to a party. Ensure your
clothes are subtle and smart

If your prospective job doesnt require you to dress formally, still it is a good idea to dress
formally than too casually

Opt for subtle colours, dont wear flashy colours like red, orange, sunshine yellow etc.
Usually black, navy blue and shades of grey will do the trick

Ensure your clothes arent revealing and dont need adjustments while sitting or standing

Ensure that your shoes are shiny and polished well

Last-minute checks
So, are you all dressed up and planning to leave home now? Take a deep breath, try to relax and make a few
checks. Check to ensure your outfit is free of holes, tears, stains or wrinkles. Examine your hair, nails and shoes
and ensure that your tattoo (if any) is hidden. Check for bad breath and carry a mouth freshener (do not chew gum
while giving the interview). All the best for your interview!

Tell me about yourself

Which is the one question asked in every interview? People with
significant interview experience in their work tenure swear by the
question. - Tell me about yourself.
Are you someone who has gone through many job interviews ? If yes, then "So, why don't you tell me about
yourself" must be a very familiar question. Something which appears so easy, becomes a tough nut to crack if
you are at the loss of words. This, no doubt, is the question that can make or break your interview. The question is
usually directed to set the flow of the interview. So let's discuss how we need to answer the same and win over the
interviewer.

The correct way to answer the question is by not concentrating too much on the factors already mentioned in your
resume. Your work particulars have been described in detail, so there is no need to be vocal about it. Create an
answer which caters to the requirements of the organization and its people. Try describing your attributes

in a way which fulfills the needs of organization.

Retrospect whether you have analytical, amiable, expressive or driving initiative within you. Before going for an
interview think about the ways you can use these skills to bring profit to the organization. Scrutinize the position
you are applying for. Try to mesh your positive traits into delivering a constructive answer when asked about
yourself. Make sure that your experiences, traits, skills, etc make a mark on the recruiter even after the
interview.
If you still are slightly uncertain about it then write down your skills on a paper. Practice a couple of lines
describing yourself in front of the mirror. Take care not to make any open ended statements. Be clear in your
speech and do not go overboard while answering. Keeping some standard answer is perfectly fine but make sure
that they do not sound rehearsed. Be confident and create a benchmark by which all of the other candidates
will be measured.
The exercise mentioned above will also help you to concentrate on what you have to offer. The collated
information will assist in selling yourself in a more convincing manner. (Read more: So, why don't you tell me
about yourself ; Also read: Top 10 interview questions)

Some more interview questions!

While you prepare for expected questions beforehand, here is a list of
other often asked but not so commonly known questions, and their
answers to get you through.
Congratulations on securing an interview slot with a company that you were eagerly awaiting to hear from! The
next thing is to prepare for the interview to come across in the best possible light. Well, you can never really know
what questions will come your way at the interview, but you can prepare for some expected ones beforehand.
Some questions like Tell me about yourself, Where do you see yourself five years from now?, What are your
strengths/weaknesses? etc are common ones that recruiters ask and which have been covered. Here are some
more questions to help you in your quest of landing a job:

What do your co-workers have to say about you?

The interviewer wants to know about how you think you are perceived at your workplace, and indirectly what
kind of employee you consider yourself. Staying positive is the mantra here, while not disclosing too much
information, either negative or overtly positive. Refrain from bragging about yourself; rather say something like
XYZ says that I manage my time efficiently and am always ahead of a deadline.

How do you handle stressful situations or cope with stringent deadlines?

If you are the kind of person who copes well with pressure and if that is one quality that is relevant to the role,
then go ahead and address this question by citing specific stressful situations and how you dealt with them. You

can elaborate by listing techniques like prioritizing work, to-do lists, etc that help you stay on top of your work at
all times.

Even if there have been instances where work stress got the better of you, it is acceptable to admit that you seek
assistance from your team. In a positive light, it highlights a responsible attitude towards work and a forthcoming
personality.

What has been your biggest professional achievement so far?

If asked about your greatest accomplishment, tell the recruiter about an instance that was a career high point not
just for you but also an important achievement for the company. Talk about your role in the task, how you
managed the responsibility under your charge, and tools adopted by you to ensure success. Deliver confidence in
your tone as you speak about your achievements; it infuses the same in the interviewer too regarding your aptness
for the role.

Tell me about an idea or plan created by you that brought your company success.
The interviewer wants to judge your ability to implement plans into action. Describe, though briefly, how an idea
conceptualized by you materialized into a process that ultimately proved beneficial to the organisations
objectives.

Would you like to ask us anything about the job and/company?

As the interview draws to a close, the interviewer will most definitely give you the opportunity to ask questions
about the job role and the company. Use this chance to understand the work responsibilities involved, the
expectations from the person assuming the role and the organisations goals going forward to demonstrate your
keenness to join and learn as much as possible about the job opening. Also, do not forget to ask about the next
steps in the hiring process and when can you likely hear from the recruiter.

Interview Know when to stop speaking

As important as it is to respond confidently to interview questions, it is
equally crucial to realise when the answer has been conveyed.
Rambling does more harm than good heres why.
The mistake many interviewees make during an interview is expecting the interviewer to signal to them when
they are satisfied with a response. The truth is that your answers should be accurate and wholesome enough for
the interviewer to move on to the next question.

Giving elaborate answers does not help in strengthening your candidature; on the contrary it reflects a lack of
decisiveness on your part and also increases your chances of divulging more information than needed. Heres why
knowing when to stop is important and what happens when you ramble:

Depicts lack of focus If you cannot provide crisp and to-the-point answers to questions,
the interviewer will perceive it as your inability to communicate your professional
achievements and goals. Very common yet important question hiring managers ask is Why
do you want to work here? Delivering your response with clarity, in both speech and
thought, earns you points and tells the interviewer that applying for the job is a planned
career move.

Drifts away from the core point Providing vague and lengthy answers disrupts the flow
of questions and ultimately even results in few questions being left unasked and asked
questions being left unanswered. Thus, at the end of the interview the interviewer is still not
convinced about what you intended to convey.

Makes you appear less confident - Interviewers use silences to great effect to test your
confidence levels. Say the interviewer asks you a common interview question Tell me about
your weaknesses? By pausing for a little while longer once you have answered the
question, the interviewer is checking your comfort level with the response that you just
provided. If you (wrongly) take it as a cue to supplement your answer with more reasoning,
it only makes your response less believable, quite like you are trying hard to convince the
interviewer.

Increases your chance of tripping over trick questions Face it. Interviewers ask
offbeat, tricky questions to test how well a candidate maintains his/her poise and can think
logically and quickly under stressed situations; the more you ramble with your responses
the greater is your chance of getting trumped.

How to check yourself

Once you feel you have provided an adequate response to a question, pause and wait for the interviewer to
continue. If you find him/her maintaining silence ask the interviewer something like Did that answer your
question? or Is there some other information that you would like me to provide? This will help you check
yourself from rambling just because the interviewer did not signal you to stop.

Nimrata Grewal

The job interview question hated by most: Tell me

about yourself
When you are looking for a job, being called in for a job interview is
very exciting. What can you do to ensure job interview success? What
do you say? How do you answer that inevitable question: Tell me
about yourself?
When you are looking for a job, being called in for a job interview is very exciting. Out of all the applications
submitted, there is something about yours that stood out above the rest. You have made the final cut. Then, you
realize that the interview will determine whether you are employed or back to sending out more resumes. What
can you do to ensure job interview success? What do you say? How do you answer that inevitable question: Tell
me about yourself?

Prepare, Prepare, Prepare

If you really want your interview to stand out and surpass the competition, and be able to talk about yourself with
ease and confidence, you need to prepare. You may have the best education and a stellar resume, but chances are
the other applicants can say the same thing. Knowing how to answer, when asked about you, may make the
difference between getting the job and looking for different employment opportunities. These are the hard
questions that will likely determine whether you are the best fit for the companys needs.

Practice how you will answer the question. Better yet, enlist the help of a friend or family member who will
objectively critique your response. If you are adequately prepared, you will be able to answer the question with
confidence and professionalism.

Job interview success

You know that your response to the question tell me about yourself may be what sets you apart from the
competition and garners you the position. But, what do you say? How to you ensure job interview success?

Here are a few key points to consider:

Be concise

Dont ramble on

Pick what is likely to be most relevant

Be personable

Before the interview, when you are practicing, its a good idea to write down what you want to say about yourself.
Be as concise as possible and figure out how to say the same thing in fewer words, if necessary. The interview
time will be limited, and you want to maintain the interest of the person doing the interview.

To ensure job interview success, dont ramble on and on. This is where practice is essential. Be confident in what
you want to say, so you wont get flustered, especially if you tend to ramble.

Pick items about yourself that will likely be of interest to the interviewer and be relevant to the position. For
example, he/she probably doesnt want to hear all about your childhood. However, if you are applying for a job at
a daycare, and you are the oldest of 10 kids, it might be important information. You know what its like to work
with kids. After all, you helped raise your siblings.

When asked about themselves, many people take a more clinical approach. Dont. Let your personality shine
through and dont be afraid to be yourself. In fact, your personality may be the determining factor in deciding
whether you are a good fit for their organization.

If you are prepared to answer the tough questions like tell me about yourself, and can answer with confidence,
you are well on your way to job interview success.

Job interview autopsies: What you dont know will

hurt you
If you dont take the time to examine how you performed in an
interview, and dont dissect the pieces you did well versus the ones you

had an epic fail on, you wont learn about yourself or what you can do
better for next time.
Weve all had that awful job interview where either we bobbled a question someone tossed at us (Like, If you
could be any animal, what would you be?) or we gave a bad answer and afterward we smack our foreheads
because we realized we could have given a much better answer.

I talk to a lot of people who are very stressed out about interviews and loathe them for the very reason because
theyve had bad onesmany say they would rather go have a root canal than go through the painful examination
of an interview.

But you know what?

Interviews are actually good for you.

Why?

Think about it. They put us on the spot in a way we usually dont encounter on a daily basis. An interview
actually is a very powerful experience because you learn how you react under pressure.

If you really want to get over those jitters, youll need to do an autopsy to discover what you need to know and/or
work on to improve your skills in these situations.

Here are some tips on becoming more comfortable and at ease:

Interview often.

Practice makes perfect. The more you do it, the more its like staying on your bike. And if you do happen to fall,
itll be a lot easier to get back on again.

Dig into the interview and autopsy it.

What did you do well? What did you do wrong? What did you expect? What happened that was unexpected? Did
you feel prepared or totally unready?

Write down all the questions you can remember after the interview.

By keeping a running list of real interview questions youve encountered, you can gain skill in knowing what
might be coming your way the next time you meet an employer.

Do your research.

Did the employer field a question to you that had something to do with the company? If you had done your
research, confidence comes with knowledge and even buy you some time. Sometimes, even deflecting those
questions with similar but different detailed information can help you wiggle out of tight spots.

What was your gut instinct about the interview?

Trusting your intuition is importantif you are feeling not-so-great about an interview and your performance in
there, there might have been something perhaps non-verbal the interviewers were exuding that put you off. If you
arent walking out pumped up and energized, is this really the right opportunity for you?

If you dont take the time to truly examine how you performed in an interview, and dont dissect the pieces you
did well versus the ones you had an epic fail on, you wont learn about yourself nor will you learn what you can
do better for next time. In your lifetime, youll have a lot more interviews than job offers, so mastering the
knowledge of your strengths and weak points is incredibly important to your careerotherwise, what you dont
know will hurt you.

What to ask the interviewer

An interview is a two-way process and preparation for one does not
only translate to rehearsing for questions the interviewer will throw at
you. Be ready to ask some yourself to judge whether the job is for you
or not.
A typical interview scenario: The interviewer asks you to tell him/her about yourself, followed by him/her sharing
a brief monologue about the company, after which it is time for him/her to ask you a barrage of questions that
span across your career history and future plans. Before the meeting is concluded, the interviewer will give you
the chance to clear any questions/queries you have about the organization and the role.

Now here is your chance to stand out from the competition and make your mark. Yes, by asking questions to the
interviewer! How does this strengthen your candidature? Well, conducting research on the company beforehand
and asking specific questions shows that you have read about the organization you want to work for and
genuinely believe that the role is aligned with your professional goals. So what are kind of questions can a
candidate pose for the recruiter?

The position
As someone looking to fill a vacancy, it is natural to inquire about the role, specifically regarding the necessity for
it to be filled. You can ask about the positions history how long has the position been vacant, why did the
previous employee leave and the duration of his/her tenure.

Work responsibilities
While you appear for the interview to prove your suitability to the employer, it is equally important to prove to
yourself why this job should be the next stop in your career track. Knowing what the job entails and having a
clear understanding of the recruiters requirements also makes it easier to reach a conclusion whether or not to
accept the job offer if and when one is extended to you. Ask the recruiter the following:

What skills is the recruiter looking for in a potential employee to take charge of the role in
question?

How does the vacancy contribute towards the overall functioning of the organization?

The organisation
Next, understanding the companys structure will lend perspective to the purpose of your role and that of the
department you will be part of. It will also help you understand the companys culture and hierarchy.

What is the departments role in the overall framework of the company?

How has the department fared in the past few years?

What are the short-term and long-term goals of the department?

Recruiters vision for the role

Knowing about the plans that the recruiter has for the position gives the job applicant vital information, which is
the managers expectation from the candidate filling the vacancy. To understand the recruiters vision and the
parameters that will help evaluate your performance, raise the following questions:

How is the performance evaluation system conducted in the company?

What are the most immediate concerns that the department wants the new joinee to tackle?

What are the performance expectations from the role?

So walk in to the interview room ready with not just answers but also some questions for your understanding
about the position you want to be hired for.

Highlight just what the employer wants to know!

Prepare your answers well by doing enough research early on; speak
with people in the industry, go online, especially the company website,
read relevant periodicals and talk with career guidance officers.
Though it is universally accepted that a targeted and concise answer is preferable to lengthy and vague ramblings,
many of us are unable to apply this principle in interview situations partly due to nervousness and stress but
mostly due to lack of clarity on what future employers really want to hear. Hence, we end up reciting a whole
laundry list of thoughts/achievements/experiences, hoping some of them will be relevant to the interviewer. The
final result? Naturally the interviewer more often than not will get annoyed/bored with your digressions, and
wont give you the job regardless of your brilliant qualifications.

Its not really that hard to figure out what prospective employers want to hear. Prepare your answers well by
doing enough research early on; speak with people in the industry, go online, especially the company website,
read relevant periodicals and talk with career guidance officers (if possible). The top 3 questions they want
answered are:

Your reason for choosing the specific job and whether you have the necessary skills and experience to be able
to complete the requisite responsibilities?
Your research should give you some basic information about the industry and function as well as a clear idea of
the key duties/skills associated with the new job. (E.g. problem solving skills, leadership abilities, strong
interpersonal skills, good analytics etc.) Rank these in order of importance and choose the top 2-3. Next, list out

your strengths and notable achievements (all of these should be on your generic resume). Map the two together,
and connect personal examples to prove your appropriateness for each of the key requirements. E.g., My
summer training as an investment banking analyst and my university course in advanced financial accounting
helped me hone my analytic skills, critical for the role of management consultant.

Your rationale for choosing the organisation.

You should be knowledgeable about the company, industry position, and the names of key individuals (at the
minimum, the CEO and Chairman) and be up-to-date on any recent press releases. But when asked why you want
to join that organisation you need to leverage all this information into something more personal (you dont want
to regurgitate the value statement from their website!) E.g., This organisation has always been well-respected
and now, after the acquisition of its biggest rival earlier this year, it is likely to grow even further, creating even
greater value and providing significant opportunities for the development for individuals like myself.

Whether you will be a good fit with the organisation and its culture?
Your company research will come in handy here too. Pursue the companys mission statement, and if possible,
speak to some current employees to find out the values that the company stresses. (E.g. being a team player,
enjoying community work, being open and transparent) Choose the top 2-3 and once more, link these to your past
achievements.

By focusing your research on just what employers want to hear, youll be saving precious time, creating goodwill
and certainly paving your path to clinching the job!

Be yourself on interviews
Are you losing out on that interview because the interviewer doesn't
seem to see you fit the role, even though you are capable? Check out
what you are doing wrong and follow these steps to get it right.
Interviews are stressful and scary. Will they like you? Will you wear the right thing, say the right thing, or just get
the whole thing right? When I speak to my clients about why they did not get a job they wanted, they tell me they
were nervous. They could do the job and do it well, but the interviewer didn't see it. Or, them. If this is happening
to you, and companies aren't seeing the real you, it's because you are not showing it to them.

It's important to be yourself on interviews. If you pretend to be someone else, or employers do not see the real
you, you may (or may not) get the job, but it won't be too long before you are looking for another one.

So, how can you be yourself? Follow these 4 steps below.

1. Let Go of Fear
If you are more concerned with getting it right, then you will end up getting it wrong. Interviews are a two way
street. Employers see if they like you and you see if you like them. If you just want to be "selected" for the job,
then you don't get to shine. Let go of what could happen wrong and focus on what on could go right. You are
perfect for the job. You know it in your gut. So go in there and show them what you got. It's OK to be afraid; you
just don't want that fear to get in the way.

2. Prepare, Over-Prepare, and Then Let It Go

It's important to prepare for an interview. You want to know about the company, what they do, and what you can
do to help them reach their goals. But at some point, preparation stops and you take over. Think about a time you
had a challenging situation at work. You thought about the solution and came up with a way to tackle the problem.
But at some point, you had to let that all go, and "you" took over. That's when you were the most effective. You
can't plan for everything, so don't.

Trust that you will do great on your interview, and you will be able to handle whatever unexpected challenge
comes your way. Your reward for trusting yourself, and being yourself, is a successful interviewing experience.

3. Be Helpful
Everyone wants to be seen as someone who can do a job well. But if the interview is only about you, and you are
only concerned about you, the interviewer will be wondering about them. Take the focus off yourself and instead
put your energies on the person you are talking to. Find out about them; what they want and what's important to
them.

Sometimes when I debrief a client after an interview, I ask what the interviewer struggled with the most. Most
don't know. When you go into helpful mode, you forget about yourself, and your concentration shifts to the other
person. This is when the real you comes out.

4. Ask Questions
Interviews are a give and take. You are asked questions and then you ask questions in return. Answers to your
questions help you feel better. And, they take the edge off. Most people are afraid of the unknown. Although you
may want the job on paper, the company, its policies, and the people who work there are unknown to you.
Questions help you get answers that put you at ease. And when you are calmer, the real you can come out.

Inane interview questions could mean much more!

Simple interview questions can determine the course of an interview by
allowing the interviewee to tell about his/her interests and the
interviewer to learn more about the candidate beyond documented
facts listed in the resume.
What do you do in your free time?

What is your favourite book?

What was the biggest lesson you learnt from your first job?

You might think that the interviewer is making you feel comfortable and setting the stage before the formal
interview begins. However, the seemingly harmless queries are also a discreet way to get to know the candidate
beyond the resume details. Well yes, your interview began the moment you walked into the room and made eye
contact with the interviewer!

The recruiters perspective

The interviewer wants to know more about the prospective employee, and not just through the resume. Your
resume was screened at the initial stage of the hiring process itself with your qualifications and experience
matched with the vacancys requirements, and the interviewer wants to determine if you, as a person would gel
with the workplace culture and the team.

What will you bring to your job?

Questions and discussions over your favourite book or movie can reveal a lot more about the person that you are
than you might think. It gives you a chance to throw light on an aspect of your personality that is important to you

and allows the interviewer to gauge your aptness for the role in question beyond mere work but in terms of the
workplace too.

Questions like what you learnt from your previous job(s) are used by interviewers to gain insight into your
mindset when it comes to your career goals and how your career shaped up the way it did. How you convey your
successes, troubleshoots and lessons learnt tell a lot about the values that you uphold and work style, and gives
the interviewer a snapshot to the commitment that you will bring to the job.

Providing an apt response

Even while answering off beat questions, keep the focus centred on the purpose of the meeting, which is gaining
selection. Do you spend time reading books related to your career field or do you keep yourself updated about the
latest trends in your domain through journal subscriptions or participation in workshops? Well, do mention them
briefly. Your responses can shape the course of the interview and lead to discussions over domain topics.

Questions that might seem as simple interview openers can be much more than mere conversation starters and
pave the way for an engrossing discussion that allows you to present your knowledge, skills and personality and
tilt the job offer in your favour.

Are you overqualified for the job?

Interviewers often decline a candidate by stating that they are
overqualified for the role in question. Understand the reasons behind
the recruiters reservations and learn how to turn this situation into an
advantageous one.
A stumbling block that many mid-level career professionals face when applying for a vacancy is fitting into all
the required parameters of a job profile years of experience, qualifications, present salary. Not being considered
for a role or to be told so even before an interview or during the early stages of the hiring process can be a
challenge to overcome.

So, what makes a recruiter turn down a candidate who is willing to accept a job for which he/she is clearly
eligible?

Concerns for the recruiter

Will the candidate have the motivation for job responsibilities simpler in comparison to what
you are accustomed to?

Salary might be a constraint as the recruiter might not be in a position to offer a

compensation that matches your last appointments compensation.

Will you fit into the organisation structure?

Will you leave if offered a better role elsewhere?

Heres what you can do to strengthen your candidature and overcome the tag of being labelled overqualified for a
job:

Highlight your skills, not job titles Shift focus away from the job titles you have held
previously and discuss in detail how well matched your skills are with the role in question.
Show that you are up-to-date with the knowledge and expertise required for the job and also
adaptable enough to learn.

Convey flexibility on salary While salary negotiation is one of the final discussions in
the hiring process, in order to ease the recruiters worry over being able to meet your
previous compensation value, assure him/her about your flexibility over the same right at
the start of the hiring process.

Let your keenness shine through In the end, it is your enthusiasm for the role that will
convince the interviewer about your candidacy. Your past performance and credentials are
listed on paper, but it is your commitment that he/she will be most closely determining.
Demonstrate your loyalty to the potential employer by citing the durations of previous
employments. He/she would want assurance that your decision to apply for this particular
job is a well thought of career move.

You will fit in the organisational set up with ease Convince the potential employer of
the fact that with the necessary job know-how already under your belt, you will be able to
take over the responsibility much faster than a lesser qualified person. Also, not only will
you learn fast, there would be promising scope of your growth within the companys
hierarchy.

Thus, tackling the overqualified for the role question requires more convincing on your part about your
commitment and long term career plans more than anything else. Ease the recruiters apprehensions by speaking
with conviction and positivity to ensure that you are considered as a strong candidate.

Top 10 interview no-nos!

Maximise your chances of securing that job vacancy by staying clear of
some interview bloopers. How you dress, conduct yourself and present
your answers is noticed by the interviewer.

Being interviewed for a job is often very daunting. It is true that you should let prospective employers see you
for who you are but there are certain strategies that can help you maximise your chances of clinching the
coveted job, or rather, minimize your chances of losing out on it.

Read carefully and take note of the following 10 interview no-nos to be avoided at all cost!

Dressing inappropriately: There is absolutely no reason to not dress well when going for
an interview, and this includes neat hair and suitable footwear. If you have any doubts about
the prospective employers dress code, then just drop by near the office and observe how
the staff going in and out are dressed. Unless youre interviewing to become a DJ, scruffy
jeans and flip-flops will not go down nicely. (Also read: Dressing up for interviews)

Refusing a glass of water if it is offered: By accepting graciously, you subtly indicate

that you are confident and open. There are also strategic advantages of accepting; in case
of difficult questions, you can buy some time by drinking a sip of water. Plus, holding the
glass will give you something to do, preventing you from fidgeting.

Poor posture and body language: Slouching, giving a limp handshake, and staring at the
floor as you speak are all loud signals of low self-esteem and poor interpersonal skills. Also,
reserve sitting with your legs crossed over box style or stretched out in front of you for your
living room. Instead, make a good impression by walking in tall, smiling as you shake hands
and folding your legs nicely below you. If there are multiple interviewers, always make eye
contact with whoever is asking you the question. (Also read: Managing your body language)

Not researching the company beforehand: You should be able to answer the questions,
What do you know about this company? in your sleep. Unless you do enough research, you
wont be able to prove your genuine interest in the job or distinguish your answer from all
the other generic Its a great place to work.

Not being prepared to answer any difficult questions: Pre-empt tough questions such
as, What is your biggest weakness? and prepare your answers in advance.

Talking too much: Taking too long to answer direct questions gives the impression that
you cant organise your thoughts and get to the point. Nervous rambling also implies that
you may be covering up something or outright lying.

Giving monosyllabic replies: If getting answers from you is as painful as extracting teeth,
why would any interviewer bother?

Answering your mobile phone in the middle of the interview: This should be obvious.
Answering your phone would show a total lack of respect for your interviewer and his/ her
time.

Blaming past employers: Every boss has infuriating habits, but blaming your problems on
your ex-boss implies youre probably vindictive, prefer to shift the buck and are not a people
person! (Also read: Why did you leave your last job?)

Failing to get the name / title of your interviewer to follow up later: Following up
after the interview is critical, and a call to the interviewer helps much more than a call to
the HR person.

As long as you are well rested from the night before, well prepared and conscious of these golden rules, the
interview will go along smoothly.

Goof-up proof your interview

Avoid some common interview bloopers like bad-mouthing your boss,
talking on the phone, and providing incorrect information, and you are
on your way towards acing that job interview.
Taking an interview is an art and if you want that job, there is a list of strict dos and donts you need to follow.
Candidates have been known to commit blunders in interviews, such as arriving late, chewing gum, answering
their cellphoneand some quite outrageous ones such as pulling out a hairbrush from their handbag to comb their
hair. Weve compiled a list of the common mistakes so that the next time you are in the hot seat, you dont make
any of these blunders.

The panel is in the other room, now I can be myself

Dont assume what you do in the lobby or in the waiting area doesnt matter. Or that what you say to a
receptionist or an assistant is not taken note of. Says Abdul Khan, head of marketing, Tata Teleservices, Mumbai,
I was once interviewing five people for a particular job in Ahmedabad. All five seemed very good and, for once,
it was a tough call. On the way out of the office, I noticed an incident. The return flight to Mumbai was cancelled,
four of them were huddling and discussing what to do. One walked up to our receptionist, called up the airline,
organized hotel accommodation for all five, even asked for an allowance (which of course, he didnt get), told the
four to come with him and left. It was a very easy choice after that!

It was ME who did it all

A senior candidate once claimed I built this plant, says Marcel Parker, chairman of Ikya Human Capital
Solutions, an HR solutions company headquartered in Bangalore. A few key questions later, it emerged that his
actual role was the EA (executive assistant) to the project director!

Exaggerated claims have a way of being found out by a panel or an interviewer who asks the right questions. So if
you are a management student whos done a project, make sure you give your project partners credit too. Even at
a more senior level, its often better to say, I was lucky to be a part of the team that worked on the project,
rather than take all the credit.

Dont I vibe well with you guys?

The words you use, the tone you take, all count. Desperately deferential is clearly not a great way to be. But
neither is the use of slang or informal talk, which could end up prejudicing an interviewer. Suparna Mitra, global
head, marketing, Titan Industries Ltd, Bangalore, recounts an interview with a girl for the position of a brand
manager. This girl talked fluently, yet every sentence was prefaced with a yaar. You know yaar, how it is, or
Yaar I tried my best at that. I couldnt believe how she kept using that word yaar all the time, and addressed
me as if we were friends from college. The overfamiliar manner probably tipped the decision, and the girl did
not get the job.

My boss is bad
Okay, your boss maybe Hari Sadu, the horrible boss in Naukri.coms very popular commercial, but if you say
so youre in danger of being seen as a whiner, and as somebody who cant get along with the people you work
with. Besides, bad-mouthing a former boss is not the most endearing line to trot out to a potential boss. Mitra
remembers interviewing a candidate who spent half the interview dissing her former boss. This girl said her boss
is a monster, and the next thing I thought of is, what will she be saying about me when she quits and moves out
from here?

I dont really want this job

It may sound like a modest statement. Or perhaps its an attempt to keep yourself from not looking too desperate.
But being blas about a job is hardly the best way to get it. And why waste the interview panels time if you are
not looking to switch jobs? Ask yourself that question before you reach the venue because if the interviewers
sense your disinterest, they sure will fire this salvo at you.

Purvi Sheth, CEO at Shilputsi Consultants, Mumbai, recalls a candidate who was interviewing for the position of
India operations head of a multinational. The company in question had shortlisted two candidates. Imagine the
amazement of the interviewing panel, when the first candidate said he didnt want the job. The panel, whose
members had put in considerable investment in terms of time and money to select these candidates, was horrified.
He went on to do a full-blown interview where he did very well, despite having dropped this bomb saying he
was not actively looking for a change, remembers Sheth. Towards the end of the interview, he explained that he
did want the job, but was trying to say he wasnt actively searching for one. Not surprisingly, he didnt get the job.

Does my resume really say that? Oops, I forgot

When it comes to judging abilities, or asking you the right questions, an interview panel leans heavily on one
document your resume. Yet many candidates forget to update details they may have included in a resume sent

months ago. Sheth recalls a candidate at an interview who reeled off a list of companies hed worked for. It was
an impressive list, but with one problemit didnt match with what his resume stated. I was confused. I thought
I had the wrong resume even though the candidates name was the same, she says. Turns out the candidate had
put out his resume with false data. The candidate later claimed he wasnt really interested in the job, and didnt
want his data out in the market, and had signed up for the interview because he just wanted to suss out the
competition. Somewhere along the way he lost track.

Parker believes that Outright fibbing never pays. As Mark Twain said, If you tell the truth, you never have to
remember anything. Sooner or later the truth will be out and then it becomes a matter of a persons credibility.
And interviewers and headhunters have a long memory.

Will you relocate for a job?

How will you respond to an interview question that asks for your take
on shifting base for a job? Here are some tips to help you answer either
in the affirmative or in the negative.
Changing jobs is a big step in ones career. Changing cities for it is an even bigger step. Along with dealing with
new job responsibilities and work environment, there is the additional load of adjusting to an unknown city
from finding a home to blending with the new places culture. Are you ready to make that shift if landed a job
opportunity that calls for relocation? How will you convey your readiness or reluctance to an interviewer when
asked about your thoughts on the matter? Here are some tips:

Learn about the company Walk into the interview room prepared to answer a question on relocation. If the
recruiters havent already specified the job location for the role in question, confirm the same with them. If the
organization holds multiple office locations in different regions, spend some time prior to the interview learning
about its branch offices, products and services, operations and management, standing in the industry, etc.

The more you know about a companys work structure, the better off you are in determining for self whether
working with them and further relocating for work (should that happen) is a career advancing move or not.

If you are willing to shift base Well, if you are game for relocation as you change jobs and if you foresee a
good learning opportunity in working at a distant unit, then let your potential employer know about your
readiness. You can put forth your keenness by stating something like Your organisation has offices in almost
every major city in the country, and I see that the branch in XYZ city handles the ABC operations, a work that I
have been part of for quite some time and would like to be involved with in the future too.

When your answer is in the negative/uncertain Consider a situation wherein you are keen to join a particular
company and are quite keen on the career opportunities it can provide for you. However, you realise that joining
would require relocating to a new city. Trumped for an answer and feeling pulled in two directions a job role
you like and the undesirable relocation it calls for?

Well, a blunt reply in the negative would mean the end of the interview and also a good job opportunity
whooshing by. There is still a way out of this tricky situation and reach a common ground of understanding
between the interviewer and you.

If you are unable to shift right away due to reasons such as family obligations, part-time study course, etc.,
provide a sound reasoning for your need to stay in the current location, but can supplement your response with a
likely timeline by which you could be available for transfer.

Example: My son is in the middle of his school term that will be completed in the next 3 months, by when I will
be able to relocate.

Relocation factors When a job offer that requires relocation is extended to you, you will also need to look at
factors like moving costs, cost of living in the new city, family concerns (job for spouse, schooling for kids),
along with the alignment of the shift with your career goals before actually committing to shifting base.

What are your strengths?

This question is aimed to understand the candidates suitability for a
given role as against the recruiters requirements and expectations
from the same. Heres how you can prepare an apt response and
strengthen your candidature.
A common interview question that leaves many stumped is What are your weaknesses? One would then begin
to think that the reverse question What are your strengths? should be an easier one to tackle. Surely, you have
listed your qualifications and achievements in the resume, but the interviewer wants to look beyond the facts
mentioned in paper and this question is your chance to highlight your strong points and strengthen your
candidature.

There are two steps to formulate an answer for the above question:

Self evaluate your own professional standing and your core key skills.

Understand the requirements of the job you are to be interviewed on.

Evaluate your strong points

The first step is to carry out a self analysis and figure out your own strong points. Look back on the tenure of your
current and past jobs and make a note of the striking moments and achievements that occurred. This would
include not just awards and commendations, but also the softer skills that led you to success.

Qualities like being a team player who can instil motivation in self and those around, a driven but thoughtful
leader, a committed employee who takes a task to completion without fail, an honest approach, etc speak volumes
about the candidates work style and employability quotient.

What is the recruiter looking for?

The basic purpose behind the interviewer asking the question is to gauge your suitability for the role in question.
Thus, armed with clear understanding of your key skills and expert understanding of your work domain, your next
step will be to align the same with the requirements for the job.

Prior to the interview stage, research a little about the job role the key responsibilities involved, the skills and
level of expertise the recruiter is looking for, and the future growth possibilities you can expect there. At the time
of interview, align your response with the interviewers expectations from the role in question. Identify your
strong points that you think fit well with the new organisations needs and highlight the same with specific
examples.

Assess whether a particular professional characteristic of you stands to benefit you in the future role. If yes, then
do make a mention of it to the interviewer. Therefore, filter out key set of strengths that you have displayed in the
past and believe will add value to the new role too.

What are your career goals?

Having well defined professional goals for yourself not only help you in
working with maximum efficiency at present job, but also place you on
strong ground when facing an interview.

Are you happy in your job, or the way your career has shaped up? If you have been in the same job for some time
now and started to look out for newer options, you might be spending time these days thinking about your career
path, specifically what you want to do next.

Interviewers ask various questions related to job skills and job(s) history; an equally important part of the
interview are questions that probe the candidates future plans and career goals where do you see yourself five
years from now? or what are your career goals?

What the interviewer wants to know

From an employers perspective, knowing how you have outlined your career progression chart will give them an
insight into why you are interested in the particular job opening, how it aligns with your career goals and your
level of focus. The recruiter will keenly analyse how parallel the companys objectives are with those of yours,
and will hiring you lead to mutual growth.

How to prepare your answer

Though the objective statement in your resume outlines your aims, this question at interview stage calls for a
more detailed explanation of the how you have worked on the same in the past and what you intend to do in
future. Heres how you can get your thought process working:

When you began your career Fresh out of college, what were your aspirations? Ponder
over the type of jobs you looked out for back then and your reasons behind them.

As your career progressed What were the milestones in your career path in terms of
important decisions taken, jobs changed, trainings undertaken and skills learnt? An
assessment of the same will help you understand the motives that led to each step and in
explaining the same to the interviewer.

Looking forward Two frequently asked interview questions are why are you looking for
a job change? and where do you see yourself five years from now? Well, both indirectly
assess your short-term and long-term career goals and allow interviewers to judge whether
this job change is in sync with your career plans. Being clear about what you seek from
every job move will build confidence in the interviewers mind about your commitment and
drive, and hold your candidature on solid ground.

Recovering from a bad job interview

If you have a bad job interview for a job you really want, writing a
timely, fact-filled and enthusiastic recovery letter can show the
employer yet again that you are the best person for the job.
It can happen to anyone. For one reason or another a late arrival, botching answers to key questions, failing to
show knowledge about the company you had a bad job interview. Although the proverb is true, you never get a
second chance to make a first impression, you do have an opportunity to make up some of what you lost in your
bad job interview.

Was it as bad as you thought?

First of all, lets make sure it really was a bad interview. Often, people are their own worst critics, and this is by
and large a good thing. But when it comes to a job interview, you might be seeing things that werent actually
there, or, at least, that werent nearly as bad as you perceived them to be. Give yourself some time. Take a walk,
and clear your head. Try to put the interview into perspective. Obviously, things like arriving late are indeed
negatives that will count against you, but others are less clear cut. Did you really stutter your way through the
most important questions, or are you remembering it to be worse than it was? Were you really caught flat-footed
by one of the interviewers questions? If you were, did it show? Did you fail to impress your interviewer with
your knowledge of the company? Are there several things that were on the tip of your tongue that you were never
able to express? Answer these questions, and youll be able to tell yourself whether the interview was as bad as
you first thought. (Also read: Interview preparation - Basic tips for success )

Is the job really for you?

Even if youve had a bad job interview, it might be a blessing in disguise. Did you feel like you werent able to
connect with the interviewer? Did you feel out of place in the office? Were the questions exceedingly simple and
not a challenge to you? Or were they largely over your head?

If you feel youve had a bad job interview, you need to ask yourself whether its a symptom of you being illsuited for the job in the first place. Sometimes job interviews convince the perspective employee that they
wouldnt be right for the job, rather than the other way around, and theres no shame in that. If you think this
might have been the case, dont be afraid to tell the employer so. Thank them for their time, and tell them that,
based on the interview, you dont believe youd be a good fit for the job at the present time, and explain why. This
will let the employer know where they stand and allow them to correct the record if you misunderstood something
in the interview.

It was a bad interview, and you want the job. Now what?
If youve carefully considered what occurred in the interview, and youve come to the conclusion that you did
indeed perform badly, and further, that youre still very interested in the job, its time to go to work. The first

thing to do is to analyze what went wrong. (Also read: Top 10 mistakes made in job interviews and how to avoid
them)

Ideally, you would have recorded the interview, so you can go back and check your responses to each question. If
you dont have the luxury of a recording, youll have to do your best to remember, with the aid of any notes you
took. Go back over the questions you answered, and write down all the things you wish youd said in response to
each question. For example, if you were asked to describe one project where you took charge and completed the
work in a unique or outstanding way, and you werent able to remember the specifics, take the time to write
down everything you can remember, now that youre not under the gun. Go back through your records and come
up with stats to back up your answers. If you feel you need third-party materials, such as a note from your old
boss talking about that particular project and what they thought of your work, dont hesitate to ask for them.

Once youve got everything assembled, its time to write a thank you/recovery note. This is a way to follow up
your bad job interview with concrete examples to back up your less than stellar answers to the interview
questions. If the interviewer was otherwise impressed with you but was under whelmed by your answers to a few
of the questions, this is your chance to set the record straight and take back the initiative. Put together a concise,
hard-hitting letter, using verifiable facts to back up your case wherever you can. When your prospective employer
receives the letter, they will know, even if you didnt show it in the interview, that you very much want the job
and further, that youre uniquely qualified for it.

There are any number of reasons why you can have a bad job interview. Often, its not as bad as you thought, and
equally often, the interview gives you additional information that convinces you that the job isnt for you after all.
But if you have a bad job interview for a job you really want, writing a timely, fact-filled and enthusiastic
recovery letter can show the employer yet again that you are the best person for the job. (Also read: Dealing with
a bad interview and interviewer)

Decoding psychological assessment

Psychological assessment is increasingly used in the selection process as
it gives an idea about the person; though it isn't a foolproof means of
judging the individual.
Paul Valry said: "The purpose of psychology is to give us a completely different idea of the things we know
best." Psychological assessment is a process involving the integration of information from multiple sources, such
as psychological tests, personal and medical history, description of current symptoms and problems by either self
or others, and collateral information.

The idea of using psychological assessment in the recruitment and selection of candidates is catching up in the
corporate sector as it gives a fair idea about the personality of the individual. The tests are based on a behavioural
interview, general intelligence and several personality questionnaires. But this is not the only and the most
foolproof method for judging him/her. Usually, used in combination with other sources like interviews, work
experience, resume, etc, it is devised to help weigh the persons talents, personality and attributes to the
weaknesses. However, psychological assessments never reveal secrets or uncovers confidential information. It
generally guages the candidate's:

Intellect level and problem-solving style;

Emotional maturity and behavioural style;

Management style;

Leadership competencies and organizational skills;

Ambitions and aspirations

No preparation is required for a psychological assessment except for a relaxed mind and body. So, you should
postpone the assessment, if you are disturbed and not completely well to take it up. Also, prefer choosing a
morning session as that is the stress-free period.

For a fair assessment, always remember the following:

Assessment requires both accuracy and speed. So, spending much time on any one question should be
avoided.

If you are struggling with an item, skip it and come back to it if there is time and always avoid the unsure
responses as much as possible.

There is no right or wrong answer, only using your honest judgment is required. The tests are designed to
pick on dishonesty.

Regardless of the outcome, ask for the feedback as it helps identifying your strengths and areas for
development.

Studies show that modern psychological assessment is a valid indicator of performance. The tests also include
vocabulary test, numerical reasoning, verbal reasoning, abstract problem solving or critical reasoning, along with
personality and values questionnaires. It also tests management and leadership potential, or mechanical or clerical
aptitudes. Finally, having a professional common denominator in the hiring process is important as it provides
enormous variability to skill effectiveness.

Some more on how crack the interview

Here are a bunch of some points on how to make an interview
successful. Know more ways to promote your candidacy with the
recruiters.
I agree, there is tonne of interview advice on the online space which can assist in making your performance
impeccable. But one cannot help but quickly glance over every new editorial piece to be assured that s/he has all
tricks safetly tucked under their sleeves in an emergency. So even though you have read and maybe re-read
articles such as What are recruiters looking for?, it is time to make space for some fresh answers and be open to
new perspectives to successfully crack interviews.

Playing it smart in interview helps to some extent. Looking confident and using smart words projects a
knowledgeable veneer. However, you need to have the passion and show the recruiters that you really care about
the job and want to be involved in the process. Your communication skills might not be up to the mark but you
definitely need to convey your fervour for the job. Unless you have the job to deal with clients every day, you can
pass the test.

A discussion around your strengths and weakness is inescapable in most situations. In regards to weakness,
whatever you say, make sure you know the answer of how to work on them and not make it a barrier in the path to
success. Strengths are easier to answer.

If you are a mid/senior level professional then you will need to depict leadership capabilities. People often equal
leadership with excellent strategist. Not necessarily. There is much more to leadership than creating plans. You
will have to give examples on how you can make people believe in one thing and progress towards its
achievement. You should have good judgement of people and hire the best from the job market. You should be a
listener too.

If you are fresh out of university/college then show your enthusiasm to learn. Never use the word No. Show
your willingness to get involved in as many things as possible and treat all of them as learning channels to earn
the recruiters favour.

Show results. Gives figures, spell out names of clients you have worked with etc. This is one topic you need to get
factual. If you have multi-tasking abilities then make a note of it. You will have to sell on how you can benefit the
company by giving examples from your past experience.

Portray yourself as a peoples person. Speak the language of the audience. You can be an excellent communicator
in office but when you have to deal with vendors, you fail disastrously. Be aggressive and yet polite; and clear to
avoid any confusions.

Why do you want to work here?

Strike the right note with the interviewer by blending your career
aspirations with what the company has to offer to you in your answer,
and how working there would be a step ahead towards your career
goals.
Interviewers ask many questions to gauge your candidature. Though the very reason you are present at the
interview is because you are keen to work with the organisation, interviewers sometimes go beyond the obvious
and put forward the question why do you want to work here? or why did you apply for this job?

Questions the interviewer is really asking

Will this job shift be a career move in the right direction for the candidate, and consequently
the company?

How clear are the candidates goals?

How do the same align with the companys future directions?

What your answer should convey Though, while the company will gauge your reasons for looking for a job
with them, your answer should not be solely me centric, but align itself with the companys objectives and plans
too. Let your answer cover the following points:

You have a fair idea of how the company works

Your skills and experience make you an ideal candidate

You share a clear, successful vision of yourself with the company

What you stand to gain This job could be an important milestone in your career and letting the recruiter know
that gains you points as a driven professional who is working actively towards his/her goals. Research about the
companys past achievements, present projects and future plans before you go for the interview. You can mention
how being part of its endeavours can enrich your professional profile and add to your learning.

One warning though you dont want to come across as a smooth talker who wants to glide through the company
gates on the skates of flattery. The recruiter wants to see what value addition will come from your end.

Your contribution Having researched about the company, you need a clear answer to why you need the
position. Focus on how your qualifications and experience have prepared you to become a suitable candidate for
the role in question. You carry with you skills required to execute the job responsibilities along with the potential
to learn new ones and advance professionally.

You may take the recruiter through your career history projects handled and skills learnt to stress on how you
believe you are now ready to take on newer challenges, as specifically offered by this particular organisation.

Let your answer reflect what you can contribute towards the company, how well you have studied the companys
objectives and working, and that you yourself believe that your qualifications and experience fit well with the
companys aims.

Are you Culturally fit?

One of the increasingly popular criteria in hiring potential candidates
is checking whether s/he is culturally fit for their organisation. So what
are the parameters of passing this test?
Honestly, how many of us read care to know about a companys work culture before meeting their representatives
for a job offer? Zilch? Well, almost. We are more bothered about making it through the interview, negotiating the
salary than thinking or researching about the work culture. But I have news for you. More and more recruiters
and management are turning to see whether candidates are actually culturally fit before hiring them. Why?
Because with so much talent in the job market, they need to make sure that the one they hire is fitting and
competent in all respects. Finally they churn them well to make a better person and professional.

Some of the core values which you should consider highlighting in your answers around would be:

Collaborative. The main aspect of a collaborative nature is the ability to effectively work
together with other team members to achieve the common goal. Being collaborative also

allows one to be respectful to others, value their differences and be open-minded to

different ideas.

Entrepreneurial. Trust and respect again form a important part of entrepreneurial

behaviour. It assists in solving hindrances at work. It opens doors to open communication
where people interface and discuss with one another and applaud accomplishments.
Overall, it maintains a healthy and positive work environment.

Open-minded. Being tolerant to different opinions and ideas is the key to move forward in
conquering the company's vision. Do not be conservative in trying out new business ways.
Be experimental and welcome innovation in all forms always.

Team-oriented. Team performances are as important as individual shows. You might be an

excellent worker but that will not take you places in your career. 'Teams are a necessity
when it comes to business. Each member of a team represents a moving part of a larger
project.' Therefore, helping others in their work and maintaining cordial working
relationships with peers are all necessary for being a team-oriented member.

Have a sense of humour. All work and no laugh can result in a grim work atmosphere.
Laughter brings down stress levels and makes the environment lighter. So deadlines or not,
sprinkle some humour at office to make it easygoing and welcoming. Stay happy and keep
others happy at work.

What the interviewer wants to know

A list of some most common interview questions along with what the
interviewer is actually trying to know through these questions. So here
is how you should answer these.
How many times during an interview have you felt that the questions being asked are irrelevant? Rest assured,
every question that the interviewer asks has some reasons behind it and to fare well, it is important to understand
the hidden meaning and answer as per the interviewer's expectations. We present a list of some most common
interview questions along with what the interviewer is actually trying to know through these questions.

Tell me about yourself/your background: Here the interviewer is trying to ask why do you think you
are best suited to the job? Give a short and concise statement about your background and relevant
educational qualifications and experience that makes you suitable for the job.

Why do you want to leave your current organisation: This question is meant to check how loyal a
person you are Be honest when answering this question, but never ever blame or badmouth your current
company. Talk about challenges and learning, but ensure that you put your current organisation in a good
light. Otherwise, the interviewer may think that if you cant be loyal to one organisation, you cant be
loyal to any organisation.

Why do you want to work here: Read this question as what do you know about the company?
Interviewers will expect you to have some knowledge about the company and the lack of it can reflect
badly on your enthusiasm and interest in the job. So, put in some time to research about the company and
get at least the basics right.

Where do you want to be in the next 5/10 years: In most probability, the interviewer here wants to know
how stable you are Stability is a big concern with employees and interviewers obviously want to hire
someone who stays in the organization for a long duration. Include internal growth and stability in your
answer and you have caught the interviewer on this one.

What are your salary expectations: This question actually means can we afford you? This question
again needs some research. Find out the average salaries earned by people in your profession in the
industry and in the company you have applied to and then, based on these figures quote your expectations.
You obviously do not want to settle for a lesser amount or ruin your chances by quoting a huge amount.

Just be smart and try to gauge what the interviewer is looking for. Understand the requirements, match your
profile to the requirements and create a pitch based on your research that establishes you as the prefect candidate.

The first 5 minutes of an interview

How you perform in the first 5 minutes will often determine the
outcome of the entire interview. Ever heard the joke, Man 1- how long
did you interview that guy for? Man 2- an hour. But I stopped listening
after the first 5.
How you perform in the first 5 minutes alone will often determine the outcome of the entire interview. Ever heard
the joke, Man 1- how long did you interview that guy for? Man 2- an hour. But I stopped listening after the first
5 minutes! Well Its true! First impressions do make a difference, and unless you present yourself as proficient
and trustworthy within the first few minutes of walking in the door, the interviewer is likely to lose interest, no
matter what you do or say later. The key things to keep in mind are that you project the appropriate image and
substantiate that with well-thought out and confident answers.

1. Dress in appropriate clothes and shoes, A man came dressed in jeans and shirt for a formal interview. I was so
irritated that he didnt even respect the job enough to wear trousers, forget tie. Obviously, I didnt give him the
job! shared an HR Head.

2. Walk confidently and introduce yourself clearly. Dragging your feet and mumbling your name is not going to
make you appear at all eager or capable.

3. When seated, maintain good posture and keep making eye contact. This will make you look more engaging and
professional. As any body language expert will tell you, looking down at your feet when talking suggests poor
self esteem and lack of interest.

4. Be prepared to discuss anything from your CV or job application form at length. I like to gauge interviewees
based on how they respond to a few initial questions about their interests or school or something. Only if they can
answer comfortably and generate a positive vibe do I start asking more in-depth questions explained a Campus
recruitment officer.

Dont be daunted by these first few minutes. Instead, look on them as an opportunity to shine. By recognizing the
gravity of the first impression, you can avoid many of the pitfalls that come with just winging it. Putting in some
serious thought and investing time practicing what you are going to do and say during those critical first few
minutes of your interview can make more of a difference than you may have once thought.

Neha Didwania Gar

Handling the interview question, 'what is your

weakness'
Many rules have been devised to answer the interview question 'what is
your weakness'. Yet there are no singular answers. What may be good
for one may not be for another. So you need to choose your line with
care.

From blatant... 'greatest weakness'; 'weakest attribute'; 'most significant failure' to soft 'what might your previous
employer say? even softer 'you certainly seem to have a lot of strengths, but we understand no one is perfect' The
question will come one way or another, everyone knows it, yet still befuddled by it. There have been many Rules
of Thumb developed over the years, from making light of the question with an answer like Pizza! (Do not pass
go; do not expect a job here) to true confessions, putting a cloud over everyone, to developing a response that
actually demonstrates a strength: I tend to be a workaholic or perfectionist (Yuk!)
I find many Rule of Thumb to be off the mark and misleading. What may be good for one may not be for another.
That is not to say there are no rules that can be applied; there are. Just choose your medicine carefully.
So the 4 rules when answering this interview question are:
Rule#1: Stay PositiveAlways! Whats your greatest weakness is your opportunity to shine. One way is to
demonstrate that you are a positive person by nature. Everyone likes a person with a positive nature, right?
Remember you are in the interview to make yourself desirable for hiring, so you might say, I rarely sit there and
think of myself in those terms, nevertheless, I do want to respond to your question or something on those lines.
Notice by the way I did not say I rarely sit there and think of my weaknesses. Okay, I take it back. Heres a rule
of thumb that always applies: Do not use or repeat negative terms, even if the interviewer throws it out there.

Rule#2 No Superlatives! Keep it singular. Superlatives such as weakest or worst or biggest indicate the
greatest degree of whatever is it describing. Worst weakness is the weakness of the highest degree implying
there are other weaknesses of varying degrees but weaknesses nonetheless. That begs the question what are some
others? Likewise, need most to improve implies there are others areas for improvement. In any case, try this as
an alternative: If I had to come up with one (No negatives; no multiples).

Rule#3 No Absolutes! The absolute, as in my weakness is states that the weakness exists unconditionally:
Utterly fixed and not likely to change. Wow! Wouldnt it be better to be a little less restrictive, something more
conditional like it could be that I am Conditional responses suggest you yourself are not completely
convinced of it. This type of response also accomplishes what the bungling technique of using a strength to
describe a weakness consistently fails to achieve that your weakness may not be a weakness after all. (Also
read: Answering 'What is your weakness')

Rule#4 Keep it real! Your weakness should be one (singular) that is subjective of your person. Humanize it!
If I had to come up with one (singular) it might be (non-absolute) somewhat (qualifier) of a lack of internal
patience (human). Continuing I seem (unconvinced) to have strong tendencies to expect the same from
others that I do from myself (human). Not just in terms of results Im smart enough to realize that not everyone
has the same level of skill, abilities and education (real) I do however, expect others to give their best effort,
and if thats not there, then yes, that might (conditional) bother me to some degree (Ah! bother me to some
degree human, non-absolute, qualifier, and conditional Dont you love it!) Another tact, similarly keeping
it real, could be an incident resultant of some area where improvement was needed (potential weakness) that

turned out to be a learning experience and later grew into a personal asset, thus giving you, once more, an
opportunity to showcase strength. (Also read: Top 10 mistakes made in job interviews and how to avoid them)

In Summary Do your homework. Think critically and be honest with yourself. Ask friends or colleagues the
same: Critically and honestly, what they think may be your one weakness. When you have the answer, internalize
it. In other words, take it to heart. If you dont, your response may come across like a sound bite, no matter how
long and hard you practice sounding unpracticed. When you speak from the heart, you wont sound rehearsed,
you will sound aware conscious of yourself, a characteristic we all value. (Also read: Managing your body
language)

Interview skills you must not skip!

Good interview performance is the result of some interview skills that
go over and beyond a shining resume. How one communicates
documented accomplishments to the recruiter is equally critical in
determining interview success.
Garbled, directionless answers, answers that do not address the question asked and good answers not spelled
out with confidence can confuse the interviewer and leave a question mark on an otherwise impeccable resume.

Here are some tips to help polish your interview skills and communicate your strengths and accomplishments to
the recruiter in the best light:

Confidence Much fear over an interview stems from our viewing it as a do or die situation and therefore putting
stress on ourselves. Walk in with the belief that your domain knowledge, experience and accomplishments have
led you here and all that determines a successful interview performance is communicating the same to the
interviewer. Yes, it all comes down to how you present the brand you to the potential employer.

Clarity Self belief and confidence will translate to clarity in your answers when faced with tricky and
situational questions. Remember, the only purpose an interviewer asks trick questions quite unrelated to the job
role is to test your composure. Dont answer in haste; rather take a moment to phrase your answer. For situation
based questions that require explanation of some technique, put yourself in an on-the-job mode and go over the
process in a clear, step-by-step manner just as you would on any given working day; your answer will be
structured better and your interviewer will get a sneak preview to your skills.

Comprehend questions well Listen carefully to what the interviewer is asking you, because the whole purpose
of the interview is for the recruiter to gauge firsthand the information you provided in the resume. So when asked
why should we hire you? he/she wants to know more about your career vision, what led you to this interview
and how you will contribute to the organisation. A small question can be your opportunity to convince the
interviewer how perfectly suited you are for the role, but only if you gauge well the interviewers motive behind
asking a particular question. If you listen carefully to what the interviewer is looking for through the questions,
you are in a better position to frame your responses and market your skills.

Dont hesitate to ask questions Heres the deal interviewers evaluate not just your responses but also the
overall manner in which you conduct yourself; specifically how you engage the interviewer in a conversation-like
dialogue. Yes, dont restrict yourself to answering just what you are bring asked use this opportunity to know
more about the job position (work involved, overview about the team, work vision shared by the organisation etc.)

Introducing yourself to the interviewer

What you say and how you conduct yourself at the start of an interview
is keenly observed by the interviewer and sets the pace for the
questions that follow.
An interview is your platform to sell your skills to a recruiter, and how well it fares is critically determined by the
first few minutes of your interaction with the interviewer. Your introduction lays the foundation for building a
rapport with the interviewer, the questions that follow and also your responses to them. Here are some tips to start
an interview on the right foot and inch closer towards signing a job offer.

Walking in As you reach the interview venue, you might be asked to fill in an application
form prior to the interview. Even if it repeats much information from the resume you are
carrying with you, complete the form in all seriousness as it might be the document that the
recruiter looks at for quick reference. When being led to the interview room, stride in with
confidence.

Introductory hello Eye contact is the first level of communication between you and your
interviewer and maintaining good eye contact conveys confidence, as does a firm
handshake. A cheerful and upbeat disposition is a great interview starter, so keep the smile
on your face when you greet him/her. Before the interview round actually takes off, the
interviewer might engage you in side conversation like did you find any trouble reaching
here? Dont let over enthusiasm allow you to launch into a detailed description of the traffic
en-route but dont be a conversation dampener either by letting nervousness get the better
of you; an apt response would be no problem or fine!

Overcoming initial jitters What you say and how you conduct yourself are keenly
observed by the interviewer and sets the pace for questions that follow. Often, nervousness
makes candidates speak either too fast or nothing at all. The best guide is to follow the
interviewers cue wait for him/her to initiate the question round, but once the question is
out, its time to put all apprehensions aside and answer to the best of your ability.

Facing common introductory questions The interviewer will begin with common
questions like tell me about yourself and take us through your resume. Sure, all
information is listed in your resume that the interviewer has looked at beforehand, but
he/she wants to gauge your candidature from how you project your career profile in your
own words. Being honest and forthcoming in your answers will not only help the interviewer
read your potential better but will ease interview pressure from you as well. It will help you
to highlight your professional accomplishments and objectives with more conviction when
compared to a pre-prepared ideal answer.

Bad interview Damage control!

Dont let interview rejection get you down. Use it as an opportunity to
pick up interviewee skills that you missed in the last interview and face
the upcoming ones with more confidence. Heres how.
Interviews go wrong for more than one reason, ranging from you not applying for the right job, going in
unprepared and ignorant of the role requirements to an interviewer asking inappropriate questions. Rather than
feeling discouraged, a bad interview is your chance to redeem it for the next one that goes right based on lessons
learnt from the former.

Analyse

Your responses Look back to review the questions that had you stumbling for an
adequate answer, answers that you could have given differently, and questions that caught
you off-guard.

Recruiters response When an interview is in process, it is difficult to read some verbal

and non-verbal cues that the interviewer leaves as a response to your answers because one
is too focused on responding to direct questions. However, post interview, you can ponder
over his/her reactions to your answer did he/she go silent, changed topics or probed
further?

Follow up letter - Send in a thank you and/or follow up letter to the recruiter reaffirming your keenness for the
role, include some brief examples highlighting your competency, and use the opportunity to add few lines to an
answer that you felt was inadequately addressed in the interview. Lastly, if it is concluded that the gates for the
position in question are closed, but you are still interested to work for the organization, you may express interest
for any future openings.

Bad interviewer Take heart, sometimes it is the interviewer in the wrong for asking irrelevant questions,
dangerously harbouring over the professional-personal boundary. Well, it is your chance to evaluate the company

as inappropriate questions only signal the organisations general regard for their employees; you can gauge the
general working and management atmosphere through the interview.

Gear up for the next interview Dont let one spoiled interview get you down. Rather, use it as a rehearsing
stage to prepare yourself with answers to some common questions that almost every interviewer asks where do
you see yourself five years from now, tell me about yourself, why should we hire you, etc. Despite being
frequently asked, interviewees are sometimes left fumbling for answers answers that recruiters use to scan the
candidates career goals and motivation.

Also, recruiters these days test a candidates presence of mind and confidence level through off beat questions. If
you faced some in the last interview and felt flustered, you can go in the next one prepared for anything that the
recruiter throws at you, and maintain your poise which is what the interviewer wants to determine.

In the end All interviews will not be your best, and every job opportunity will not convert itself into an offer,
and all offers may not translate into job satisfaction. The point is to stop running around desperately and mulling
endlessly over an offer not coming by, but to focus on highlighting your strengths and working on your
weaknesses; not only will you be in a position to discern between good and bad job opportunities and where to
invest your energies, but will also allow you to deliver your best in the next interview opportunity.

Why do you want to leave your current job?

Your potential employer will listen with keen interest to what you have
to say about you changing jobs. The reasons you give provide valuable
clues about your career goals and employability factor, and why s/he
should hire you
Your resume speaks about your professional profile your qualifications, jobs held, responsibilities conducted,
and achievements. However, we never really elaborate on why we choose the career path that we choose; well
that is discussed in the interview where the recruiter would delve into more than what he/she sees on paper and
one common question you are likely to be asked is why did you leave your last job? or why are you looking
for a change?

Lets take a look at how this question serves as an evaluation technique for the hiring manager, and further how
you, the job seeker, can use it to your advantage to affirm your candidature for the role in question.

What recruiters want to know

Your interviewer is keen to gain an insight into the circumstances that led you to this
interview. Through this question, he/she is probing for any baggage that you might be
carrying from previous job(s). Are the reasons for job change normal or are you driven to it
under pressure due to trying/conflicting situations, either of your making or your
employers? The interviewer is determining your career profile as a measure of what type of
employee you have been in the past.

Secondly, the interviewer would like to know that looking ahead, what your career goals are
and how will this particular job change fit in with your long-term career goals and will it
contribute to your career growth, because indirectly, your employability quotient determines
the value that you will add to the organization.

How to answer
Firstly, be clear over your reasons for changing jobs. Is it a step in career progression after you have learnt all that
you could in your current job or are you resigning under unpleasant circumstances? Either way, they key to
answering right is to sound positive, be crisp and concise, and definitely not beat around the bush if its the latter
case. Some concrete reasons can be

A search for newer opportunities and challenges

A chance to work in a larger, more established organisation

Shift in work domain

How not to answer

Under no circumstance should you badmouth your previous job profile, boss or management. The recruiter has
little/no interest in the dynamics of your previous workplace, but is keenly gauging your role and responsiveness
as an employee there. Cut out de-motivation, conflicts and salary constraints from your answer; rather highlight
the larger picture as mentioned above. Let the reasons for your seeking change reflect you in positive light as
someone who is committed to personal and organisations growth and would add value to the company he/she
joins.

"Where do you see yourself 5 years from now?"

Your getting a foothold into the company depends on some annoying
questions, which have no fixed right answer. So how do you go about
answering them? Here are some tips to frame your answer.

Well! How you perform in an interview depends on how you answer some of the most popular annoying
questions asked during the interview. The problem is, theres no one right answer and most can land you in
troubled water and rob you of the job-opportunity. Projecting yourself too high might make you sound overambitious, but talking very down to earth would project you as an individual lacking initiative to contribute to the
companys growth. So, what do you do? Theres no one right answer for these; only the one that works better
than others. How do you then figure out, which will work and which wont?

Ideally find out first if youre a good fit for the job and the company. Analyse your plans before as the interviewer
with this question figures out the kind of person youre, whether you plan ahead and set goals which match with
the companys and lastly, whether you want to move out soon or not. The interviewer also tries to gauge how well
you understand what they want, whether your growth idea is compatible with the company's goals, etc. Therefore,
be cautious and use some of these tips to tackle such questions:

Think of the things you as an employer will do for an employee: These include
offering trainings and greater responsibilities, shuffling assignments, helping to focus in the
individual development plan which includes goals and also putting you in an effective
mentor-mentee relationship. Fame your answer keeping these things in mind.

From this question, your potential employer wants to know your long-term
professional plans and whether hiring you will suit them or not. Talk about your
career ambitions and discipline and how well youre prepared to take up the responsibility.
Also, how working with this particular company fits into your professional development.
Keep in mind that this question asks you how well you know yourself and the answer
justifies whether you are just floating along or have a serious career plan.

Where you see yourself in the company? Remember this, as the interviewer will not
accept In the next five years, I will be off to the US, patenting a product Rather, they
would prefer, Depending on my performance and the opportunities provided, Ill carry on
the duties responsibly. Even if you know, you wouldnt be there, stress that youll stick
around as no employer wants to hear that. Use the interviewer to get where you want.

If youre a nerve wreck, settle for a quasi-pat answer. Say, I want to see myself
advancing in my career goal, learn new things and take on new responsibilities. Or maybe,
I will take advantage of the available opportunities and contribute handsomely

Injecting a little humour works at times depending on the interviewers mood.

Judge that first. An answer like, "I want to be in your position" might stump the
interviewer and make him/her speechless. But follow up with the explanation that with
everyone doing a good job, its just logical that everyone moves up in the corporate ladder.
The optimism and confidence might work. (Also read: How to successfully prepare for
interviews)

Sometimes being honest helps as truth has its own advantage. Honesty works
better than the best prepared scripts with its element of uncertainty. If you are a fresher,
you can say, Ive no specific plans except that I want to work sincerely in the current
profile but be open to opportunities within the organization to advance even if Ive to switch
roles. At this age, I can learn fast and adapt, which are my strengths. I am flexible and will
acquire new skills to contribute to the organisations success. Or as a pro you can say, Ill

strive to refine my skills and be an expert. After proving myself in all the roles, I adorn, I
would like to continue contributing in a challenging environment.

Facing the interview isn't about what you say, but about saying what the interviewer wants to hear. (Also read:
What the interviewer wants to know) Remember, honest and natural candidates are always preferred though
honesty and personal ambition have no place in the corporate world. And, this dichotomy is the key to the answer.
So, just be yourself, look the interviewer in the eyes, connect with him/her and answer with conviction. Give the
cue that youre ambitious but not over- ambitious and know the company's goals. The best answer can be framed
taking the company's mission statement, with add-ons like youre intelligent, hard-working, resourceful and
highly motivated.

How to fare well at job fairs?

A job fair essentially allows job seekers to interact with company
representatives, learn about industry demands and network with
recruiters. Read on to know how a job fair can act as an effective job
search tool for you.
Many argue the effectiveness of job fairs in landing a good job with thousands of people dropping in their
resumes at the hiring companies booths and a few minutes interaction with company representatives, what are
the chances that this leads to a formal interview?

While some organisations conduct a formal interview, most use these events for the initial screening of candidates
to be contacted later; companies also collect resumes for future openings. For fresh graduates just entering the job
market or working professionals exploring the job market, a job fair can open doors to new opportunities.

Why job fairs?

A good platform to interact with employers and even fellow job seekers.

Learn more about the demands of your industry sector.

Explore the various career opportunities available.

What to expect from fairs?

Contact building

A step towards formal interview

Job seekers stand to gain valuable insight about hiring companys profile and their hiring
needs.

Notes for job seekers

Research beforehand With so many companies setting up booths at the fair, you will
save time and also be able to communicate to prospective employers about their vacancies
and more about the organisation if you study the list of participating companies and carry
out some groundwork before attending. Shortlist the companies that interest you and gather
company information through their websites (you can also collect company brochure at the
booth later).

Outline your day With a list of the registered companies and the ones you are keen on in
hand, survey the layout of all booths and decide the order of the companies you plan to be
interviewed for begin with your top choices and meet the others during the course of the
day. Revisit the priority companies in the end and thank the hiring representatives for
sparing time for you.

Carrying your resume Though dont expect to be interviewed the same way as in a
formal interview, do go prepared when you walk up to a companys booth be sure to carry
sufficient copies of your resume, and different versions of it too if looking for multiple job
profiles.

Interacting with employers The key to stand out from the hundreds of applicants at job
fairs is to use the few minutes you get with each employer to maximum advantage in
addition to submitting the resume, briefly introduce yourself by name and background, your
career interests, and also how you see yourself a good fit for the position on offer in the
company.

Following up You dont want your resume to be one among the hundred others dropped
by hopefuls like you, do you? To avoid the risk of being screened out, it is essential to follow
up. You may do so with an exit thank you while leaving the fair, along with an email to the
hiring representative the next day; no harm in including a copy of your resume again.

Your body language for a successful job interview

To be successful at a job interview, you need to pay attention to
how you dress and conduct yourself beyond words. Your body
language also determines the fate of an interview to quite an
extent.

Job Interview success depends on more than what you say. What you do can also determine whether you become
a new employee or another candidate steps out of the unemployment line. Pay close attention to your body
language, for a successful job interview.

Attention to details

During the interview, the person(s) conducting the meeting will be looking, as well as listening. Sometimes, what
is not said speaks louder than the actual spoken words. Therefore, it is extremely important to pay attention to the
following details:

Clothing

The Handshake

Feet Positioning

Seating

Arm Position

Space between you and the interviewer

Eye Contact

In fact, if the position is truly desirable, your body language for a successful job interview is worth practicing.

Professional interview tips

The Dos and Donts of successful job interviews have been compiled by knowledgeable people that
normally sit behind the desk. The advice is almost universal; and, it begins with the clothing chosen for the
occasion.

Clothing
It is vital to wear something physically and emotionally comfortable. People who feel good about how they look
tend to experience a more successful job interview. Of course, it is also important to dress appropriately for the
appointment. While some individuals feel at ease in their best bathrobe and slippers, or shorts and a t-shirt,
looking like a future employee of the company is a better plan.

The handshake
Something as seemingly simple as the handshake can ultimately set the tone of a successful job interview. In
general, its best to wait for the person conducting the interview to offer his/her hand first. When a hand is
extended in greeting, grasp the entire hand firmly and palm up, so not to appear aggressive.

Feet positioning

Sitting up straight, with feet planted firmly on the floor, is the best posture for a successful job interview. Women
should avoid crossing their legs, and men should not sit with their legs too far apart. Casually sitting with ankle
resting on the knee is definitely taboo.

Seating
The best interview tips suggest waiting until a seat is offered by the interviewer. In the event a person is left
standing, it is important to ask which seat to take. Nevertheless, it is a good idea to sit where all participants of the
meeting are clearly visible.

Arm position
Amazingly, one of the most coveted interviewing tips regards arm position during the meeting. Typically, with so
much at stake, people tend to have trouble knowing what to do with their arms and hands. So, the best rule of
thumb is basically to do nothing. Relax. Allow the arms and hands to rest naturally in the lap. Of course, animated
hand gestures while speaking is still a good idea, as long as it is not overdone.

Space between you and the interviewer

While it shows an interest in the conversation to lean slightly forward, its never a good idea to crowd personal
space. Job interview success often depends on appearances. So, it is vital not to give the perception of being
aggressive. Allow 30-36 inches of space between the interview participants. However, leaning into the
conversation, with enthusiasm for the potential position, is a great attribute.

Eye contact
Finally, maintaining eye contact is vital to a successful job interview. When addressing and individual, look
him/her straight in the eye. It conveys honesty and a straightforward personality, which is a much desired trait in
good employees.

In short, preparing for a job is much more than showing up on time and having the right answers. Your body
language for a successful job Interview often speaks louder than your words.

Where do you see yourself five years from now?"

This perhaps is the most difficult question to answer in an interview.

Let us try to understand it better from an employers perspective and
then look at ways to provide a suitable answer.
Interviews are all about questions, and they delve into your career history, present and future"What are your salary expectations?"
"Why should we hire you"?
So, why dont you tell me about yourself?
"Why did you leave your last job?"

However, a staple question at any interview and one that leaves many flummoxed for an appropriate answer is
where do you see yourself five years from now?

Five years is a long time, and allow me to say that nobody can predict where they shall be or what they will be
doing in five years. But the question is thrown at you and you need to have an answer ready. Let us take a look at
the interviewers purpose of asking this question and what kind of answer will carry you successfully towards the
job:

What is the interviewer really asking?

There are two hidden queries that the interviewer wants to know through this question. These are:

An insight to your career goals and objectives- Every recruiter has a definite role outlined for
their employee, and would like to see whether there is a good fit between the companys
and the interviewees career goals. This questions answers, to a good extent, the level of
motivation of the person being interviewed and how clearly are you about what you want to
achieve for yourself in your chosen profession.

Best fit with the job role or not- The interviewer wants to know that that your application is
not a mere stop-over and you are looking for a stable position in the company where
your contribution can add value to its growth.

How you can tackle the question

Assure the interviewer about your commitment- Begin by telling the interviewer that the
position you have applied for falls in line with your long-term career goals and you believe
you hold the right qualifications for the job.

State your future goals- Follow it up by stating what you see yourself doing in the coming
years (learning new skills, advancing in the field, etc.) and how the job profile on offer is in
sync with the same.

Justify your response with your past work experience- You can always add weight to your
answer by highlighting specific events/job roles that led you to the present and how you are
steering your career in the right direction.

Interviewers use the five year question to identify a candidates ambition levels and judge if they are the best fit
for the given role; as a candidate use your answer to affirm your keenness for the job and how your experience
and career objectives make you best suited for the role.

Knowing the 8 different types of interviews

If you think all interviews are alike, you need to know this. Employers
these days are using different kinds of interviews to get the best talent
onboard. Read on to know some of these unique types of interviews.
To ensure the availability of best talent for recruitment, companies are making their recruitment processes more
robust. As such, many new interviewing methods have come into existence. It is important to know about them
because you never know when a lucrative opportunity comes by. You may obviously not want to miss it because
of your lack of knowledge.

Let us read about some of the different kinds of interviews.

The Screening Interview is the first round of selection where candidates are shortlisted on the basis of their skill
set. Computer programs select the right resumes based on a keyword search. In some companies, this is done
manually. To ensure selection, create a well written and well structured resume highlighting your
accomplishments. Make sure that the keywords that the companies in your field search for are all there.

The Informational Interview happens even if there are no current openings with the company. A lot of people,
especially fresh graduates, contact the management for information gathering or counseling. The candidate's
knowledge and confidence should be convincing for the employer to keep in mind for future openings. So, do
your research, go prepared and make sure you sound intelligent and professional during the conversation. Leave
your contact details and always thank them for their time.

The Roundabout Method gives the opportunity to lead the discussion. The interviewers usually ask open ended
questions like tell me about yourself." Be prepared with the summary of your skills, qualities and experiences.
When the interviewer interjects, respect her/his motive and adjust to the flow accordingly.

The Stress Interview judges your capabilities to cope with stressful situations. Your thoughts and views can be
challenged during the interview. You may be made to wait for long and greeted with cold stares in the interview
room. Expect the unexpected. Do not fret, be yourself, stay calm and perform to the best of your abilities.

The Audition interviews are the ones where a candidate's skill set is tested through practical exercises. Practice
well, comprehend every question before completion and behave professionally.

The Group Discussion is usually conducted during campus recruitments and involve discussion of an issue with
the other candidates or solving a problem collectively. These interviews are aimed at reviewing your analytical
and communication skills. Think what you say during the discussion. Pay respect to other's opinions. If you do
not agree to anyone's opinion, state it politely.

Mealtime Interview is usually meant to hire people for senior levels. Interview over a meal is an excellent
indicator of what you are like in a social setting. Are you comfortable and amiable or self-conscious and elusive?
Companies want to observe not only how you handle a fork, but also how you treat your host, any other company,
and the serving staff. Being polite and courteous helps. And don't forget to thank the interviewer for the meal at
the end of it.

The Follow-up Interview happens after the screening interviews. Such interviews are conducted when the
recruiter is already convinced about your candidature and needs to go over things in finer details. In such

interviews, good communication skills and building an understanding between the interviewer helps to a large
extent. Sometimes salary negotiations also happen during this round. So be ready for it.

What are recruiters looking for?

Sometimes you do the right things and speak the right words but still
miss on the coveted job opportunity. Sometimes recruiters look for
something extra in the candidates.
When friends around me are talking about actively looking for a change in job, I am left wondering whether
things have changed much in the last three years since I last changed jobs. Since my work calls for spending most
of the time on the Internet, I googled the word interview only to be flooded with extensive resources to help
make an interview successful. It is impressive really to know others opinion on how to score in the rendezvous.
Honestly, not all of them are helpful but we can decide for ourselves and effectuate them easily to attain the
promised success.

After reading some worthwhile articles on interviews and conversing with friends who have recently changed
their office address, I have come to the conclusion that recruiters today are looking for honesty in candidates.
However, this does not mean that correct answers and power dressing have taken a back seat. The interviewers
want to see much more than just the carefully framed answers and attire.

A friend of mine applying for a content position in an acclaimed research company was asked to solve a tricky
business paper before actually meeting the recruiter for an interview. She was no doubt agonized over it and
somehow painfully finished the test, much convinced that she will leave empty handed. Surprisingly she got
through the next round and was called for the interview. On asking whether analyzing business data will be be
frequently required in her job, she was informed in the negative, and that the purpose of including it was just
to test her determination and grit. Therefore, do not forget to show your fortitude in all ways when tested for
patience.

It is hard to miss a happy and positive note. Cheerfulness can drive away all blues and is a necessary feat to
maintain a perfect work life balance. So even if you are clueless to some questions imposed by the recruiter, be
honest in accepting it. Crack a joke around on how you could have missed knowing that. Zero inhibitions towards
admitting ignorance is a real turner for the recruiter. It also reflects your openness to learning new things.

Modesty, integrity and trust should reflect well during your interview. Though interviews are mostly about I, do
not forget the we. While describing an accomplishment in your career, give a line of credit to your mentor or
team. This denotes your humility. Veracity should reflect in your resume and references for a winning meeting.

Must have communication etiquettes for your job

search
Clinching a desired job requires skills that go beyond holding a powerpacked resume; communicating etiquettes is the latest addition to the
checklist of 'must haves' in a candidate.
Most people are familiar with the general guidelines to be followed during an interview (being punctual, dressing
right, responding to questions with concise answers, etc). However, a candidates suitability to a particular job
profile is assessed on multiple parameters and not just the interview. Good correspondence etiquette is one of
them.

We take a peek into the common modes by which you are likely to contact or be contacted by an employer, and
how you should ensure effective and positive communication.

Phone interview etiquette

Being prepared for a telephonic interview is the key. Keeping a log of the various companies
that you sent your resume to allows for easy recall of the job profile that the caller on the
other end is referring to. (Also read: Telephone interview tips- to get your foot in the door)

Every interviewer begins by asking something like this- Is it a good time to talk? Continue
only if you are sure of a disturbance-free conversation. Else, offer to call back as soon as
you are in a position to. Again, keep your promise and call without much delay!

Keep your voice mail message and caller tune professional. Avoid messages that divulge too
much personal information.

Maintain the same level of formality during the telephonic round as you would in a face-toface interview.

Email etiquettes

While an email ID that spells something like [email protected] is fine for personal use, use a
discreet and impersonal ID when applying for jobs. (Also read: Online job search etiquette)

Include a brief cover letter along with the resume to provide the recruiter some insight to
your profile. With numerous similar applications in the recruiters inbox, yours could easily
get overlooked. A brief introduction comes to the rescue here.

Make sure all mails you send are virus-free; an infected document will kill your chances at a
job.

If the mail is part of a series of correspondence shared between you and the recruiter, send
it in the reply mode so that he/she can link back to previous communication.

As a general rule, an email must be replied to within 24 hours; if you foresee a delay, send
an sms and then reply at the earliest opportunity. (Also read: E-mail job hunt tips)

Following up - what is the right protocol?

Send a thank you note post your interview and convey your keenness for the job.

If at any stage of the hiring process you decide to forgo your candidature, thank the
interviewer for his/her time, keeping a window open for the future. An email is an
appropriate means for doing this.

Know what divides persistence from annoyance - a call/email once a week to check the
application status is acceptable, but anything more than that will only hamper your
chances.

Your resume might hold the credentials that a job profile necessitates, but it is your communication skills that
convey a lot more about the person that you are and the employee that you would be. The latter is a subtle
parameter that many companies use to gauge how well a candidate would fit in their set up. The right email and
phone etiquettes can take you a few steps closer to your destination, which reads youre hired!

What hiring managers are really asking

When you've finally manged to get that elusive interview call, you need
to figure out what the hiring manager is really looking for. Some handy
tips on what an interviewer expects from you.
OK, youve made it past the initial resume screening and now have an interview. It could be in person or on the
phone. (More and more interviews are on the phone now, and Ive heard of Skype interviews also better dress
up for that one!) (Also read: Telephone interview tips - to get your foot in the door)

The point of an interview is to explore two main things:

Do you really know what youre doing, or is that stuff on the resume real? Theres a lot of
BS in some resumes and interviewers will ask pointed questions to determine if you actually
have the skills and experience you claim to have. (Also read: Is your CV a lie?)

Questions about this could be:

1. Tell me about this accomplishment. How did you do it?

2. Why did you decide to go into this field?
3. How did you make the transition from this job to the next?
4. What is your greatest strength?
5. How do you manage people?
6. Tell me about a project you managed/a plan you developed and implemented/a team you
worked on/a goal you achieved.

Be prepared with stories about what youve done in the past, to illustrate a key message you want to deliver about
the reasons you are successful, the skills you have and want to use again, the way you work with others, and the
value you will bring to your next employer.

Will you be the right fit for our culture and can you really help us reach our
company goals? Interviewers want to know how you think, how you approach and solve
problems, and your attitudes toward colleagues and customers internal and external.
(Read: Are you Culturally fit?)

Questions about this will focus on your behavior and attitudes, and attempt to discover your values and work
ethic. Sample questions could be:

1. Heres a scenario or problem we face at this organizationhow you would go about dealing
with it.
2. Tell me about your greatest challenge at work and how you addressed it successfully.
3. How would you deal with someone on your team who isnt pulling their weight?
4. What failures have you had and how did you deal with them?
5. Tell me what you would do in your first 90 days here and why.
6. What do you like to do in your off-time and why?

For the questions that concern how you would work at the company, take your time
answering the questions. Its OK to give it some thought. You can prepare somewhat by
reading as much as you can about the company to understand the business and the
challenges it might face. Also, thoroughly go over each part of the job description to
understand exactly what is in the job and what you might be called on to do. Identify what
youve done in past jobs that is similar to what is required in the new job, so you can refer to
that experience VERY briefly (e.g. When I was at XYZ, I had a similar situation. Based on
that, heres how I would approach this scenario).

To prepare for questions related to past jobs, come up with stories in these
categories. Construct the stories to illustrate the key points you want to make about your
abilities, talents, skills, attitudes, and work style.

If you are asked the question about hobbies, it shows the interviewer is aware how
you spend your off-time is indicative of your core personality and underlying talents. We
tend to pursue things as hobbies based on what feels good and fun, what comes naturally.
That usually means well contribute a LOT of value when we do similar things at work.

People who play team sports as a hobby softball, basketball will work well in a team and probably do very
well in client-facing jobs because they are social by nature. Someone who runs marathons can usually be counted
on to stick with jobs until they are completed no matter the obstacles. A cook will be pretty creative and seek
ideas and inspiration from others, and have the ability to synthesize information into something new. I think you
get the idea.
Be prepared to draw a correlation between what you do off-time and how it can translate into why you would
be an excellent part of the new company. (Also read: What the interviewer wants to know)

Must have communication etiquettes for your job

search
Clinching a desired job requires skills that gMost people are familiar with the general
guidelines to be followed during an interview (being punctual, dressing right, responding to questions with
concise answers, etc). However, a candidates suitability to a particular job profile is assessed on multiple
parameters and not just the interview. Good correspondence etiquette is one of them.

We take a peek into the common modes by which you are likely to contact or be contacted by an employer, and
how you should ensure effective and positive communication.

Phone interview etiquette

Being prepared for a telephonic interview is the key. Keeping a log of the various companies
that you sent your resume to allows for easy recall of the job profile that the caller on the
other end is referring to. (Also read: Telephone interview tips- to get your foot in the door)

Every interviewer begins by asking something like this- Is it a good time to talk? Continue
only if you are sure of a disturbance-free conversation. Else, offer to call back as soon as
you are in a position to. Again, keep your promise and call without much delay!

Keep your voice mail message and caller tune professional. Avoid messages that divulge too
much personal information.

Maintain the same level of formality during the telephonic round as you would in a face-toface interview.

Email etiquettes

While an email ID that spells something like [email protected] is fine for personal use, use a
discreet and impersonal ID when applying for jobs. (Also read: Online job search etiquette)

Include a brief cover letter along with the resume to provide the recruiter some insight to
your profile. With numerous similar applications in the recruiters inbox, yours could easily
get overlooked. A brief introduction comes to the rescue here.

Make sure all mails you send are virus-free; an infected document will kill your chances at a
job.

If the mail is part of a series of correspondence shared between you and the recruiter, send
it in the reply mode so that he/she can link back to previous communication.

As a general rule, an email must be replied to within 24 hours; if you foresee a delay, send
an sms and then reply at the earliest opportunity. (Also read: E-mail job hunt tips)

Following up - what is the right protocol?

Send a thank you note post your interview and convey your keenness for the job.

If at any stage of the hiring process you decide to forgo your candidature, thank the
interviewer for his/her time, keeping a window open for the future. An email is an
appropriate means for doing this.

Know what divides persistence from annoyance - a call/email once a week to check the
application status is acceptable, but anything more than that will only hamper your
chances.

Your resume might hold the credentials that a job profile necessitates, but it is your communication skills that
convey a lot more about the person that you are and the employee that you would be. The latter is a subtle

parameter that many companies use to gauge how well a candidate would fit in their set up. The right email and
phone etiquettes can take you a few steps closer to your destination, which reads youre hired!