They say, “First impressions matter.” But do they really? Can an interviewer decide your fate within the first 30 seconds of meeting you? The truth is—YES, to a large extent. Interviewers are human, and humans make snap judgments based on first impressions. The way you walk into the room, your handshake (if applicable), your facial expression, and even the way you say “Good morning” can set the tone for the rest of the interview. While your answers and skills still matter, those first moments create an impression that can be difficult to change. Why Do First Impressions Matter So Much?…
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Most people walk into an interview thinking it’s all about having the right answers. But if that were the case, every well-prepared candidate would get selected. The truth? It’s just as much about how you answer as it is about what you say. The best interviews don’t feel like a test. They feel like a discussion—where you and the interviewer are exchanging ideas rather than just running through a script. So, how do you make that happen? By using simple communication techniques that help you connect, engage, and respond naturally. Here are a few that can make a big difference.…
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Interviews can be daunting, but knowing what to expect can make a huge difference. If you’ve ever faced a challenging question that caught you off guard, you’re not alone. Interviewers use different question types to assess your problem-solving skills, decision-making ability, and overall suitability for administrative roles. Two of the most common types are behavioral and situational questions. While they may seem similar, these questions serve different purposes. One digs into your past experiences, while the other tests how you might handle future governance challenges. Understanding their differences—and how to answer them effectively—can help you leave a strong impression on…
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In Part 2, we explored STAR-like techniques such as CAR, SOAR, and PAR—frameworks that help you structure your answers to behavioural questions with clarity and impact. If you missed it, you can catch up here. But interviews aren’t just about behavioural questions. Sometimes, you’ll face hypothetical scenarios, competency-based questions, or even curveballs that test your creativity and quick thinking. Today, we’ll focus on three additional techniques that are distinct from STAR and equally valuable for acing your next interview. These strategies will help you handle unexpected questions and showcase your problem-solving skills, no matter the field you’re in. Let’s dive in! Hypothetical Scenario Technique Some interviewers love to throw…
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In our previous post, we explored the STAR method—a tried-and-true framework for answering behavioural interview questions. If you missed it, you can catch up here. But did you know there are other STAR-like techniques that can be just as effective, depending on the situation? Today, we’re diving into frameworks like CAR, SOAR, PAR, and SHARE—methods that build on STAR but offer their own unique advantages. Whether you’re aiming for a corporate job, a role in public service, or even a leadership position at an NGO, these techniques will help you craft clear, compelling answers that leave a lasting impression. Let’s break them down! CAR (Challenge, Action, Result) A…
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Let’s be honest—behavioural interviews can feel a bit intimidating. Whether it’s a job interview, a civil service interview, or even a promotion discussion, chances are you’ll be thrown a situational or behavioural question like: “Tell me about a time you solved a problem at work.” “Describe a situation where you had to lead a team.” “Give an example of how you handled a conflict.” Suddenly, your mind goes blank. You know you’ve got great stories to share, but how do you tell them in a way that’s clear, concise, and impressive? That’s where the STAR method comes in. It’s a simple, structured…
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If you’re preparing for a civil services interview, you might be wondering how UPSC (Central Civil Services) interviews differ from State PSC (State Civil Services) interviews. While both assess a candidate’s suitability for administrative roles, they have traditionally had different focuses. However, in recent years, the gap between them has been narrowing. State PSC interviews are no longer just about state-specific topics—they are digging deeper into broader governance issues, much like UPSC. This means that aspirants preparing for State PSCs should also look at UPSC interview questions to get a well-rounded perspective. Let’s break down the key differences and see…