Interview calls for preparation and poise
R.C. Sharma

SOMEBODY has rightly said that knowledge is your best protection against the unknown. Therefore, equip yourself with all the information you can gather for the interview. Get hold of the annual report and sales brochures of the firm you’ve applied to. Also talk to some of its dealers, even employees. Scan newspapers and magazines to gain knowledge about the company.

The interview is a test of your self-confidence and nerves. It is a direct judgement of your abilities and capabilities.

Here are some useful tips to make your interview a success:

When you have been called for an interview, make sure you are dressed properly and reach the venue before time. Keep your dress sober. Slippers and T-shirts are out. In winter, be suited. Button up your shirt, wear a tie. Avoid loud, contrasting colours, making it clear to the interviewers that you are not a flamboyant person.

Reach early, at least 30 minutes before the interview has to start. Avoid a late-night party or movie before the interview and eat sparingly. Be sure to take a couple of copies of your biodata with you.

The first few minutes are very crucial. The first impression counts—the way you walk in, exchange salutations, introduce yourself—everything makes a difference. Begin well and try to better your performance during the interview — that’s the key. Be clear, precise and positive. Make short statements, but don’t answer in monosyllables. Sound warm and eager. Avoid dropping big names — that may end up making the interviewer feel small. But if you have received recognition, praises, from big names, mention it discreetly, as though it were an honour.

During the session, look directly at the person asking the question, and do not stare at anyone or anything. And if faced with a confusing question, don’t panic. If you do not know the answer, admit it and go on from there. Trying to fudge will reflect negatively on you.

Say “please” and “thank you” wherever necessary. Do not lean back in your chair and cross your legs while answering. You will be marked as overconfident and arrogant. Don’t sound casual and don’t joke unnecessarily. If the discussion leads to the salary, be sure to produce papers which mention all your salary details, including hidden perks and likely future increases.

Don’t discuss your personal philosophies, politics or religion.

Don’t try to control the interview, let it remain in control of the flow of questioning.

Don’t criticise or bad-mouth your present or previous employer. It’s in bad taste. Don’t cite money as the reason for leaving your job. Unless it’s much below the industry average or if there has been a freeze on increments.

Don’t chew gum or smoke a cigarette during the interview.

Nervous and anxious to impress, many candidates end up talking excessively, trying to emphasise how smart and technically sound they are. In the process, they harm their prospects instead of bettering them.

Try having some practice sessions with your friends, rehearsing the answers before you appear for the interview.

Do thank your interviewers politely before you leave, and leave the interview room with dignity and grace. Don’t look back.

A well-planned strategy, sound preparation, suitable dress, good grooming and self-confidence, poise and composure will surely pave your way to success.