by Peeush Trikha

Created on: October 29, 2009   Last Updated: April 16, 2010

Most of us have been through one or more interviews during our working careers. Some of us might even have appeared for 10 or more interviews. Except for a few of us, who work or have knowledge in very niche areas, the rest of us are mostly appearing for job interviews for which there are a large number of applicants. The interview can also be tough if there are just 5 candidates; all with almost equal level of expertise in their fields. This makes it very very essential on our part to prepare well for an interview.

Preparing for an interview requires us to pay attention to several details. Some are obvious, while others may not be obvious or things with which we might be uncomfortable. Here are some of these details:

1) First and foremost, be as thorough and knowledgable as possible in your speciality area. For example, practice a large number of Programs with varying levels of complexity if you are a programmer - whether C, Dot Net, Java, Database, or any other programming Language. It is absolutely clear that you have no chance otherwise.

2) Focus on the fundamentals of your speciality area. For example, focus on the basic definition of terms like "Derivatives", "Book building process" etc. if you are applying for a job as a Financial Manager or Mutual Fund Manager. Or terms like "Polymorphism", "Abstraction" if you are a Java Programmer. Some interviews do focus more on advanced topics, yet most of the experienced interviewers determine the suitability of a person from how clear are they on the fundamental topics.

3) Dress formally, unless the kind of job you are applying for demands informal dressing. Maybe careers like Radio Jockey demand informal dressing. Also, have your hair combed neatly and do not flaunt heavy jewellery or fashion accessories.

4) Reach the interview place well on time. It is in fact preferable to reach there at least 20 minutes before to feel comfortable and relaxed. Arriving late never finds favour with the interviewers. Of course, there are times when the interviewers themselves are late. This is also unacceptable, yet one has to bear that.

5) One should be very clear as to what one has has written in his or her resume. It should not be the case that you write something in your resume and are not able to describe it clearly. This is sometimes difficult to fulfill when the person taking the interview is asking very tricky questions, or biased in his opinion about some of the things one has mentioned in the resume. Still being clear

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