Nervous about your first job interview? Keep these tips in mind

Siddharth Singh, who has now reached the final leg of his post-graduate diploma course at Apeejay School of Management (ASM) has bagged a job at HDFC Bank through the college placement cell. The student, who chose Marketing and Human Resource (HR) as his specialisation, will be joining the company as a relationship manager. In an interview, he tells us in detail about the support and guidance he received from his college.

Excerpts:

How did ASM prepare you for the industry?

The course curriculum, designed by the college, played a big role in making me industry-ready. We participated in numerous projects, role plays, and case studies where we got the chance to put the concepts learnt in class into practice. The mentoring sessions at college helped very much in this.

What kind of help did you get from the placement cell?

The placement cell helps students to get ready for various interview rounds. It also conducts timely pre-placement sessions to equip us with relevant skills. The team works with students to improve their logical, analytical, and verbal skills, which  further gives them an edge when sitting for interviews.

Also Read: ‘Consult professors, get your resume reviewed’: HR professional shares job interview tips for freshers

How did you prepare for the job interview?  

I did proper research on the company: Before the interview, it’s important to research the company you’re interviewing with. Look for information on the company’s mission, values, and culture. This can help you tailor your answers to the interviewer’s questions and demonstrate your interest in the company.

Practice your responses: Practice answering interview questions with a friend or family member or record yourself answering questions and review the recordings to identify areas where you can improve.

Dress appropriately: Dress in professional attire that is appropriate for the job you’re interviewing for. If you’re unsure what to wear, research the company’s dress code or ask the interviewer for guidance.

Did you face any challenges?

Some common challenges we face during job interviews are nervousness, difficulty answering certain questions, and uncertainty about how to handle unexpected situations. It’s important to remember that job interviews can be stressful for everyone, and that it’s okay to acknowledge your nervousness or ask for clarification if you’re unsure about a question. By preparing in advance and practising your responses, you can help build your confidence and feel more prepared for the interview.

Overall, what do you have to say about your journey at ASM?

I can positively say these two years of post-graduate diploma in management (PGDM) has made me a better person. It has helped me develop a positive attitude towards life and discover more about myself.

Throughout my two years of MBA, I had countless opportunities to develop analytical skills, leadership and proactive thinking through various programmes and events. I had an opportunity to participate in various activities like community service programmes, group discussions, and mentoring sessions, among others, which surely had a significant impact on my overall personality.