Concept and Types of Interviews (PYQ 2022)

An interview is a face-to-face interaction attempting to secure maximum information regarding a candidate's suitability for a job.

Key Types of Interviews:

1. Preliminary: Quick screening to weed out unsuitable candidates.
2. Patterned (Structured): Questions and time limits are strictly planned in advance.
3. Depth: Covers life history, hobbies, and detailed work experience (common for executives).
4. Stress Interview (PYQ 2021): Conducted for jobs performed under stressful conditions. The interviewer deliberately creates strain (e.g., frequent interruptions, keeping silent) to see if the candidate loses their temper.
5. Walk-in Interview (PYQ 2020, 2022): An unscheduled format where candidates can walk into the company premises during specified hours for an immediate interview.
6. Exit Interview: Conducted by HR when an employee is leaving to gather feedback.

Answering Tough Questions

• "Tell me about yourself." Don't recite your whole life story. Give a 2-3 minute snapshot of your professional journey and why you are the best fit for this specific job.
• "What is your greatest weakness?" Do not use a fake weakness like "I work too hard." Select a true professional weakness (e.g., trouble prioritizing) and immediately explain the active steps you are taking to overcome it (e.g., using a planning app).
• "Why should I hire you?" State you are the best person for the job and back it up with a passionate behavioral example that differentiates you from others.