Students' Speak: Important tips to prepare for Personal Interview

By: Swarna Pavithra

A personal interview is mostly the last stage in any recruitment process, which is also the most intimidating step for many candidates.

This article focuses on the parameters to be taken into account while preparing for any personal interview.

1. CONFIDENCE

Confidence is the Kohinoor that makes you sparkle among others. Confidence can’t be developed in a day or two. It can be developed only through regular and periodic practice. Hence, start investing in yourself. Be aware of your strengths and weaknesses and start working to strengthen your strengths and improve your weaknesses.

2. CLEAR OBJECTIVE

Be clear of the company or the institution’s objective and your objective for attending the interview. This will help you in giving clear answers to the questions asked by the interviewer.

3. HONESTY

As the old saying goes, honesty is the best policy. Never try to lie or outsmart the interviewer. Be honest with your answers. Being honest is sure to give you brownie points.

4. CURRENT AFFAIRS

Current affairs have become an integral part of any personal interview, be it for any company or any institution, a sound knowledge of current affairs will prove quite useful.

5. POSTURE AND ATTITUDE

It's not wrong to say, our posture shows our attitude and attitude determines our posture. 

Sitting with a straight back, with hands on top of the desk (visible to the interviewer) portrays confidence and a positive attitude. Fidgety hands and shaky legs are strictly to be avoided. They are a clear indication of a lack of self-confidence.

6. DRESS CODE AND STYLE

Dress code is equally important to posture and attitude. For men, plain formal shirts in shades like mild pink, pale green, peach or any other pastel or soft-hued and formal pants are preferred. 

For women, formal shirts and pants or skirts are preferred. Apart from this, cotton salwar’s or sarees are also a good choice. Do not wear long earrings or chains, make them as simple as possible. Avoid dyeing your hair, have a simple and neat hairdo.

7. PUNCTUALITY

Punctuality is one of the most imperative factors, which apart from creating a good impression, shows how seriously you take your work. At least be 30minutes prior to the interview. If met with any unforeseen unfortunate incidents, then inform the team regarding the issue immediately. This shows how important you consider this interview and there are many chances for them to accept your excuse.

8. RUDE & ARROGANT - A BIG NO 

Interviewers always will want to see how you handle a complex question or situation. Hence instead of being rude and displaying arrogance, the candidate should handle the situation politely, maintaining calm. Displaying anger will never help you, instead, it will be considered a serious issue of non-compliance with the team.

About the Author:

Swarna Pavithra is a budding writer and an aspiring management student pursuing her Masters in Business Administration in Thiagarajar School of Management.