‘From day one, the institute started to groom us for placements’

It’s already been 3 months for Jyoti Singh, in her new job with TCG Media Pvt. Ltd. She is working as a web content writer in the editorial department while writing articles on different genres, from entertainment (which is her favourite) to health. In addition, the young web content writer is contributing for the magazine section while writing mostly on transportation, logistics and supply chain business and so on.  In this interview, Jyoti who pursued  her Corporate Communication and Event Management programme from Apeejay Institute of Mass Communication (AIMC) explains how the institute prepared her to crack this job interview. Read edited excerpts:

Did you always aspire to work in this sector? How did you prepare for the same?

Yes, I have always aspired to work in this sector. Even though I explored the public relations field, I figured early that PR isn’t my calling. I come from a journalism background and have a knowledge of the field and how to write content including feature articles and reports. I got a job in TCG Media where I was initially assigned to work on content for entertainment, health, and lifestyle beat. But later, I also started writing for the magazine. I know I am in the right place where I need to be. They say whatever happens, happens for the good and the same happened with me.

What was your preparation strategy to crack placements?

I have always believed in the fact one should know very well about what one is made for. I read in depth about the roles I was interested in. Like if I’m working as a content writer, I want to know about content writing, its basics and writing techniques in this field. Whenever a candidate goes for a job interview, he/she should first know about the company, then his/her job role and things that are expected in that job role.So, I just followed this process. And yes, be confident with your answers. It can also happen that your interviewee can trick you in your answers. If you fail in that trick then you can lose your job as well.

How did professors at AIMC groom you for the placement process?

I will always be very grateful for my professors. From the start of college, they started grooming us for interviews, made us work on several live projects, so that we are well prepared for the placement process. Professors conducted many mock interviews to train us for the final day. Individually, they used to share feedback, pointed out my weaker areas and explained to me where I was lacking.  Their support helped me crack the placement. 

Read Here: ‘AIMC groomed my overall personality’, says PR professional and Apeejay alumna 

What skills did you develop in AIMC and how did these help you crack the job interview?

The skills I develop in AIMC is to be confident and be bold. It’s because these two are the most important things among others one must possess when aspiring to work in this sector. By only having these two things one will be able to express one’s thoughts on any writing platform as well as in front of the people. AIMC always tried to work upon these two factors along with focusing on our practical work. Experiential learning or project work helped us overcome our weaknesses. The 8 months in AIMC were a rollercoaster ride with ample learning opportunities. I am glad to be part of AIMC and wish to make my alma mater very proud. 

Quick placement interview tips

– Prepare yourself in advance
– Watch 2-3 interviews which are available on YouTube and practice in front of your mirror
– Be confident in front of your interviewee
– Be ready with your answers and don’t be afraid of being fumbled. It is common and it happens. But answer every question confidently.
– Gain a basic knowledge about the company and detailed information about your job role
Try to be a little creative

Where do you see yourself in the coming 5 years?

Frankly speaking, my ideology is to go hand in hand with the time. Why should you worry about the future when you can’t live your present enough. I don’t know where I’ll be in the next five years, but I know I’ll always try to give my best. My aim is to make my parents, professors, and loved ones feel proud of me. Coming years are certainly crucial as I want to explore different fields to identify what I am good at.