Nagpur: Placements week can often be quite nerve-wracking. With the pressure to come across as someone who can totally handle responsibilities and be an adult (Ha!), and the added stress of exams looming ahead, most students tend to get a bit frazzled while gearing up for an interview. However, we’re here to tell you that it’s really not that hard to get good placements at leading companies. All you have to do is make sure the following are sorted.
1. Start with all the paperwork
Your CV needs to be on point
Before you consider anything else, make sure that your CV is in order. Writing a good CV is harder than it looks. Either people get too carried away trying to sound creative, or they just don’t pay attention to the big picture and create a cluttered, messy resume. While there is no standard format to follow, make sure you meet the following criteria:
- Your CV should highlight your strong points in the most concise manner.
- Think of what the reader is taking away from your CV and write it accordingly. After reading it, one should be able to describe the candidate clearly in one’s head
- Pay attention to the aesthetics; ugly CVs can be quite a turn-off.
- If you have internships on your CV, write what you learned from all of them as well as your overall responsibilities
- The same goes for any clubs or associations that you’re mentioning.
2. Do your homework!
Do your research!
Nothing comes across as more cavalier than not being able to answer a few simple questions about the company you’re applying to, or about the job itself. While your interviewers won’t be expecting you to know everything there is to know about their firm, you should still have the basics down pat.
3. What you wear matters!
Look as fantastic as possible
Did you know that 75% of your first impression is determined by looks alone? It’s true. Obviously, you won’t be solely judged on your looks here, but it doesn’t hurt to spruce up a bit. Whether you’re wearing formals or semi-formals, you have to make sure the clothes fit you well. Do your hair properly. Add a dab of lipstick and a spritz of cologne – that’s all it takes.
4. Present yourself well
Be confident!
One of the most commonly asked opening questions is “So, tell me something about yourself.” This is where most people falter. Here’s what you need to know about answering this question correctly: No one wants to know your life story, but no one’s looking for a snooze-fest either. Talk about your achievements with a few personal stories thrown in that highlight why you’re perfect for the job. Do Not Ramble!
5. Mind your manners
May the odds be ever in your favour!
Although these are basics, most people forget these simple courtesies during a job interview. So, just as a checklist, here’s everything you should do:
- Wish them when you enter.
- Shake hands with everyone at the table – firm handshakes only!
- Maintain eye contact off and on while talking – don’t be creepy about it.
- At the end of the interview, thank them for their time.
Seriously, it’s that simple! When it comes to acing your college placements, these factors certainly determine the direction your interviewers will lean towards. To be honest, no one expects an incredible CV at college placements, so the most important thing at the time is the way you present yourself and your overall attitude.