HPU students learn essential skills for career success

The Institute of Vocational Studies (Tourism), Himachal Pradesh University (HPU), Shimla, successfully organised a two-day workshop on “Communication Skills and Mock Interviews” under the MERU component of PM-USHA on November 11 and 12. The workshop aimed to enhance students’ employability, confidence, communication abilities and professional competence, equipping them with essential skills for future career success.

HPU Vice-Chancellor Prof Mahavir Singh, who was the chief guest on the occasion, addressed the students and emphasised the growing importance of soft skills, Artificial intelligence and data science in the modern professional landscape. He urged students to cultivate these competencies to stay competitive and excel in their chosen fields.

Prof Shashikant Sharma from the Department of Journalism and Mass Communication guided students on handling interviews with confidence, while Dr Praveen, Assistant Professor, Himachal Pradesh National Law University , Shimla, conducted a session on CV and resume preparation, sharing practical tips for effective self-presentation. Bhushan Rohta, Union Public Service Commission faculty, highlighted the importance of communication and body language in achieving interview success, inspiring students through motivational anecdotes and actionable insights.

Dr Hitesh Bhardwaj, Digital Media Consultant, led an engaging session on communication skills, covering IELTS and TOEFL preparation and introducing the concept of Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP). He explained how techniques such as “triggers” and “anchors” can help individuals overcome public-speaking anxiety and build confident communication habits.

The second day focused on interactive mock interviews and skill-based feedback sessions conducted by Dr Bhardwaj and Dr Praveen, who offered constructive evaluations of students’ performances. They provided valuable guidance on refining resumes, avoiding grammatical errors and improving articulation and body language. Students were encouraged to demonstrate clarity, confidence and composure, maintaining eye contact and a professional demeanour throughout.

Participants actively engaged in the sessions, applying the techniques learned during the workshop. The evaluators’ detailed feedback helped students understand the nuances of effective communication, personality projection and interview etiquette.

Outstanding performers were recognised with merit certificates for their commendable participation, confidence and excellence in communication.