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Bangalore, April 1 Preparation is the key to success in a job interview, said Mr K.R. Upili, Retired Group Head and ex-board member of Siemens, while delivering a lecture on how to prepare for an interview, organised by BL Club for the management students of T. John Institute of Technology T. John Institute of Technology (TJIT) here.

He said that the mantra for success in interview was “90 per cent preparation and 10 per cent execution.”

Sharing his experience as a human resources manager for over four decades, Mr Upili said that the interviewer will be looking for different qualities in addition to the skills that a candidate possesses.

“The interview is your chance to show that you are the best person for the job. Your application or resume has already exhibited that you are qualified. Now, it is up to you to show how your skills and experience match this position and this company,” Mr Upili said.

It is imperative for the candidates to choose their responses carefully even if they are not totally comfortable with the atmosphere in the room or the questions being asked.

At times, the interview panel poses a tough question that may stump candidates.

“To send a signal that you are still at ease replying to tougher questions, you may say, ‘I am glad you asked this question’.

Then recall the situations you have been keeping track of on a regular basis to articulate how you have handled a similar situation or task,” he told the students.

Mr Upili highlighted the importance of having the knowledge of a company before they attend the interview. “Find out all you can about the company before you go to the interview. Understand the products that they produce and/or the services that they provide. It’s also good to know who the customers are and who the major competitors are,” he said. He said that non-verbal languages speak louder than words. Mr Upili gave tips to the students on how to present themselves during the interview.

“Enter the room like a winner. Offer your hand, and give a firm handshake and a pleasant smile. Display a positive and confident attitude. There is nothing worse than people playing with their hair, clicking pen tops, tapping feet or unconsciously touching parts of the body. Look the interviewer in the eye and listen to the questions attentively. Never answer just ‘yes’ or ‘no’ to a question. Always clarify, expand on your answers. Be sure not to go on rambling,” Mr. Upili said.

He added that they must be confident of going to a job interview and this can happen only if they are well-prepared. “The more you prepare and practise, the more you will feel comfortable,” Mr Upili said.

Mr Nagarajan, Head of Management Studies, TJIT, welcomed the gathering and introduced the guests.

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