(TIPS) Taking on the IAS interview

Pervin Malhotra Director, CARING (Career Guidance India), New Delhi

Q:I have cleared the Prelims and Mains of the civil services exam but am very nervous about the interview. I feel this will be my biggest stumbling block. Can you give me some tips on how to prepare for this final hurdle?

Piyali Sen

A: The interview stage of the civil services exam can make even the most meritorious student jittery. As you must be aware, candidates shortlisted for the interview are usually twice the number of seats available. So the competition is stiff. But if you are prepared, there is no need to panic.

The interview carries 300 marks and the board usually grills the interviewee for 15-45 minutes. They have your resume and career record at hand based on which you can expect six major questions to be fired at you. Questions that can spring from your bio-data could be regarding the meaning of your name, surname, date and place of birth, or any related historical, political, cultural event or personality.

Secondly, you will be tested on your academic background and your choice of optional subject in the mains. Brush up on current affairs about your state, your hobbies and job experience, if any.

The written test has already tested your knowledge base. What remains to be evaluated is your personality and convictions. The interview stage is essentially about ‘you’.

Here are some dos and don’ts: Don’t speak in long convoluted preambles. Be logical, consistent and rational without making sweeping, generalised statements. Defend what you say with due respect to the views of the board and avoid using clichés and technical jargon. Putting on an accent is an absolute no no.

Don’t get perturbed if the board interrupts your answer or differs with your point of view. Maintain eye contact with the interviewer and include all board members in the conversation.

Courtesy: The Telegraph - Calcutta Careergraph