Interview is the easiest yet the trickiest part of SSB. Easiest because unlike the other tests, which comprise a number of small tests, in the battery, interview is just one test carrying major weightage. So a huge part of your selection depends on this test. It is tricky because you can never say whether your interview was good or bad. People who get thrashed in the interview get selected many times, and those who think their interview went like a cake walk, do not make it. And thus we call it tricky! However there are a few elements which contribute to a successful interview.
The elements of a successful interview
- That smile, will take you miles: When you enter the room of the interviewing officer, you should not look unduly tensed or worried. Once you wish him, wish him with a smile on your face. Trust me, it’ll lighten up the situation. It’s understandable that you are tensed, but if you’ll smile in that stressed environment, it’ll reflect a great deal of positivity. The officer will sense that you are a confident person immediately.
- The walk and talk guide: You should enter the room smartly and not slouch while sitting. Shake hands firmly, if offered, and never offer a hand shake from your side. While talking, keep an audible tone, that is your tone should be neither too loud nor too feeble. It should be just like you are talking to a friend sitting a little distance away from you. Never try to speak in a fake accent, that sounds really funny!
- When in SSB, speak the truth: Lie is a strict no for an officer to be. You can lie, if you are sure enough to defend it. But lies are caught over the course of time and also keep in mind that the person sitting in front of you is an expert. Interviewing officers are like the old and experienced mechanics of candidates, they have seen so many candidates and caught so many lies that they can easily catch yours. So make sure you never lie in the interview. This applies to the PIQ form also.
- Remember, he is a lazy guy: Every man is lazy by nature, so for every short question give a long answer. For instance, if he asks you where are you from, then give a detailed description of the place you are coming from. The more you speak, lesser questions he’ll ask, so definitely you need to speak your heart out. This way you’ll manage the time for the interview also, he’ll be satisfied to have learnt a lot from you and you’ll control your interview.
- Never beat around the bush: If you don’t know an answer for something, simply say no, rather than doing a guess work. You can guess but say that you are not sure. This shows honesty. Similarly never exaggerate anything you say. So keep your emotions under control and keep your mind open while answering, so that you know what you are speaking.
