INTERVIEW SKILLS AND TECHNIQUES

By: Pradip Sengupta

Sr. Trainer UGI

An interview is like a personality test. The panel assesses your academic knowledge, self-awareness,
goals, and overall personality. It helps them evaluate your managerial and technical abilities on an
individual level.
If you receive an invitation to interview, or if your college has arranged a campus drive, it means the
panel wants to see if you fit the profile of students they are looking for. Don't feel intimidated by the
interview process. Remember, the panel doesn't know you yet. Their impression will be based solely
on what you tell them and how you present yourself. This gives you an advantage, as you can guide
the interview by proactively steering the conversation towards the questions you have prepared for.
Approach the interview as a chance to introduce yourself to a stranger rather than a daunting
experience.

Types of Interviews:

Technical Interview:
In this type of interview, you will be asked questions related to your specialized field. It is important
to have a strong understanding of all the subjects within your area of expertise when preparing for
this type of interview. The purpose of a technical interview is to assess your knowledge and expertise
in your subject areas.

Stress Interview:
Many colleges particularly the B Schools and several organizations are known for conducting stress
interviews. In a stress interview, the panel intentionally acts hostile and tries to make the candidate
uncomfortable. They may put you on the spot and try to push you against the wall. The purpose of a
stress interview is similar to a controversial group discussion (GD). The panel wants to see how
mature you are and how well you can handle stressful situations. In management and organizational
roles, stress is a common part of the job, along with high salaries and respect. As the saying goes, "If
you can't stand the heat, get out of the kitchen." The idea behind a stress interview is that a manager
should be able to face stressful situations with composure, grace, and dignity.
To handle a stress interview, it is important to stay in control. Answer questions calmly, without
raising your voice, becoming aggressive, or engaging in confrontations. Act as reasonably as possible
and don't get angry, remembering that it's not personal. You have never met the panel before this
interview, and you won't meet them again. If two people ask you questions simultaneously, politely
request to answer one question first and the other afterward. Avoid getting emotional at any point,
even though it may be challenging. Your body might show signs of tension, such as hyperventilation
or sweating. If this happens, take deep breaths, tell yourself to relax, and then start answering the
questions.

Personal Interviews:
These interviews deal with your background, likes- dislikes, strengths- weaknesses, hobbies etc.

Preparation for an Interview:

To maximise your chances of success at an interview you must prepare well before hand. In many
ways an interview is a more predictable process than a GD, so there is no denying the importance of
preparation and no excuse for the lack of it.
Areas of Questioning:
Before preparing for an interview, let's discuss the topics you might be asked about and the purpose
behind each question. Understanding these areas will help you create an effective preparation
strategy. Here are the main areas:

Academics/Technical Questions:
This is particularly important for fresh graduates. The panel wants to ensure that you have genuinely
learned the required knowledge from your college education. They also want to assess your
understanding of the concepts. Unfortunately, our education system often emphasizes rote learning
without true comprehension. However, as an MBA aspirant, you should demonstrate a solid
understanding of your field and the ability to apply theoretical knowledge practically.

Job Experience:
If you have work experience, the panel may ask about your previous job and company. They want to
evaluate your approach and interest in your work and the organization. Someone who is enthusiastic
about their job will be familiar with various aspects of the company beyond their own role, whereas
someone with little interest may lack knowledge about the company beyond their specific job. Stay
updated on all aspects of your job.

Hobbies:
The panel wants to gauge whether you have a narrow focus or a well-rounded personality with
diverse interests. You might think that having excellent academic achievements is enough, but
hobbies are also important. Participating in extracurricular activities and pursuing hobbies shows
that you can balance work and fun, and that you recognize learning opportunities beyond textbooks.

For example, engaging in team sports teaches you about teamwork and leadership in ways that no
textbook can. As Diane Ackerman stated in "Deep Play": "Play is fundamental to evolution, inviting
problem-solving and allowing creatures to test their limits and develop strategies. In a changing
world, survival belongs to the agile, not the idle. While we may see play as optional or casual, it plays
a vital role in our development."

Remember, the panel wants to understand your capabilities and overall personality, so be prepared
to discuss these areas during the interview.

Career Goals:

The aim is to see if you have a clear idea about your career. The panel wants students who know why
they want to pursue an MBA and have well-defined career goals. They prefer candidates who have
thought through their career choices, considered the advantages and disadvantages, and have their
priorities sorted. It's important for them to understand your motivation behind your chosen career
path.

Personality:

The goal is to give the panel a complete picture of who you are and to reinforce the impression they
have formed based on your responses in other areas.

Preparation Strategy:

Based on the above areas, you can determine the type of preparation strategy you need to follow
before attending the interview.
Self-Reflection and Readiness

Preparation on Self:

1. Review your textbooks and refresh your understanding of the basics. Be able to explain concepts
in simple terms and find practical applications for what you've learned.

2. Reflect on your extracurricular activities or hobbies and consider what you've gained from them.
Explore any connections between these activities and your chosen profession. Think about how you
can continue these activities in your work life, considering time constraints, and what they reveal
about your personality.

3. Stay updated on current affairs and general knowledge, especially in the last six months. This
preparation is similar to what you would do for a group discussion (GD).

4. Reflect on your career choices. Why did you choose your profession or career path? Why did you
specialize in a particular field? Define your short-term and long-term career goals.

5. Take time to introspect on your personality. Identify your strengths and weaknesses, and provide
examples of situations where you demonstrated them. Understand your priorities in life and the
reasons behind them. If you have work experience, focus on the industry, company, and job you were
involved in.

Men's Dress Code:

1. Necktie: Choose a tie with a conservative pattern. Make sure you learn how to tie a good knot for
a polished look.

2. Shirt: Opt for a conservative, long-sleeved shirt. White is the best choice, followed by pastel colors.

3. Shoes: Wear dark-colored shoes, preferably black lace-ups. Avoid new shoes that may squeak or
cause discomfort.

4. Socks: Match your socks to your shoes or trousers, ensuring a cohesive look.

5. Pocket Square: Carry a clean handkerchief in your pocket for a tidy appearance.

6. Hairstyle: Maintain a well-groomed hairstyle. Consider getting a haircut, as shorter hair tends to be
more favourable in interviews.

7. Facial Hair: Avoid beards unless they are well-trimmed. Moustaches are acceptable as long as they
are neat and trimmed.

8. Jewellery: Limit jewellery to a wedding ring, avoiding other rings for a professional appearance.

9. Earrings: Remove any earrings if you typically wear them.

10. Fingernails: Keep your fingernails clean and trimmed.

11. Pockets: Ensure your pockets are empty, avoiding any bulges or jingling coins.
12. Briefcase or Portfolio: Carry a light briefcase or portfolio case for any necessary documents or
materials.

Caution: Avoiding Gum and Odors: Refrain from chewing gum, consuming pan, pan masala, candy, or
cigarettes. Take care of your breath to ensure it is free from any tobacco, pan masala, cigarette, or
alcohol odors.

Dress Code Tips for Women:

1.Elegance is Key: Opt for a saree, suit, or pantsuit that suits you gracefully. Simple and subtle colors
work best for a sophisticated look.

2. Comfort is Key: Avoid overly tight-fitting clothes for a more comfortable and confident appearance.

3. Step with Confidence: Choose shoes with conservative heels or opt for polished sandals that
complement your outfit perfectly.

4. Practicality Matters: Ditch the purse and carry a sleek folder instead for a professional touch.

5. Nailed It: If you prefer nail polish, go for clear or conservative colors for a polished look.

6. Tress Perfection: Maintain neatly trimmed hair with a conservative style. Natural-looking hair color
adds to the overall appeal.

7. Less is More: Keep your makeup minimal for a subtle and natural enhancement, avoiding an overly
noticeable look.

8. Subdued Accessories: Steer clear of noisy jewelry like anklets and bracelets to maintain a
professional ambiance.

9. Ring it Right: Limit the number of rings to one per hand for a refined and tasteful appearance.

Mastering Body Language:

Immerse yourself in the art of body language, weaving an enchanting aura that captivates the entire
panel. Allow your eyes to dance gracefully, embracing eye contact with each member. Find the
delicate balance between relaxation and formality, gracefully seated in your chair without a forward
lean or restless fidgets. Exude poise as you sit tall, hands gracefully resting in your lap, and gestures
restrained yet refined.

Beware, for hidden amidst the labyrinth of questions lie unforeseen challenges. Some queries are
crafted to test your mettle, pushing you to think swiftly on your feet. Thus, throughout this
enchanting interview journey, wield an alert mind as your trusted ally, unraveling the mysteries and
illuminating your path to success.