With the UPSC Mains behind you, the wait for results has begun. While the outcome isn’t out yet, now is the perfect time to start preparing for the next stage — the Interview (Personality Test). Starting early gives you a real edge before the results are out and time flies. This stage carries 275 marks, which may seem “small” compared to Mains, but don’t underestimate its weight. Often, when written scores are closely bunched, your interview performance decides whether you secure your dream service or fall behind. More than knowledge, this round is about you — your personality, presence of…
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The first few minutes of an interview are super important. They set the tone for the rest of the conversation and help the interviewer form an opinion about you. No matter what job you’re applying for—corporate, government, or startup—there are some questions you’ll almost always hear. This is the first part of our four-part series on acing interviews. Here, we’ll cover six common questions that interviewers ask to understand your background, motivation, and whether you’re a good fit for the role. We’ll also give you simple strategies and examples to help you answer them confidently. 1. Tell me about yourself.…
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Interviews can be unpredictable, but one thing remains constant—preparation is key. Whether you’re appearing for a corporate job, a government role, or a startup position, certain questions frequently appear across industries. Knowing how to respond effectively can set you apart from other candidates. This blog series is designed to help you navigate the most commonly asked interview questions. We will break them down into structured categories, providing effective answering strategies, practical examples, and industry-specific insights to ensure you respond confidently in any interview setting. What This Series Covers: 🔹 Part 1: General Questions – These are introductory questions that set…
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Job interviews can be nerve-wracking. The pressure to stand out pushes some candidates to use questionable tactics—psychological tricks aimed at influencing the interviewer unfairly. But do these methods actually work? And more importantly, should you rely on them? Let’s break it down by understanding what dark manipulation techniques are, whether they’re effective, and the risks involved. What Are Dark Manipulation Techniques? Dark manipulation techniques are psychological strategies designed to sway an interviewer’s perception unfairly. Unlike ethical persuasion, which focuses on showcasing real strengths, these methods rely on deception, pressure, or exploiting biases. Some common manipulation tactics include: 1. Mirroring (Excessive…
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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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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 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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Curious about the kind of questions asked in the RAS interview? You might have searched online, asked people, and still not found a clear answer. Since there’s no official list, we’ve analyzed past interviews to give you a structured insight into what to expect. The RAS interview, conducted by the Rajasthan Public Service Commission (RPSC), is a crucial step in one of the state’s most competitive exams. It goes beyond testing your knowledge—it evaluates your personality, critical thinking, communication skills, and ability to handle real-world administrative challenges. In this blog, we break down the different types of questions commonly asked…
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Currently, RPSC is preparing for the Rajasthan Administrative Service (RAS) interviews, the final stage of its flagship examination process. Candidates will face a panel of experts, including senior bureaucrats and subject matter specialists, who will assess their personality, administrative skills, and knowledge of Rajasthan’s socio-political landscape. As the interview phase plays a crucial role in final selection, aspirants are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the Commission’s structure and prepare diligently for this important stage. The Rajasthan Public Service Commission (RPSC) is a constitutional body established by the Government of Rajasthan on December 22, 1949. Headquartered in Ajmer, the Commission plays…
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Preparing for the UPSC interview can be both thrilling and nerve-wracking. As candidates prepare to step into the interview room, they experience a mix of excitement and anxiety, wondering how they will fare under the watchful eyes of the panel. With interviews currently underway, many aspirants are eager to learn from those who have already faced the process. To help shed light on what to expect, this article gathers experiences from previous years, offering a glimpse into the challenges, surprises, and lessons shared by those who have been through this crucial stage. A Friendly Atmosphere One thing that many candidates…