dated March 01, 2006
(Questions answered on career concerns)
Can you give me some tips on how to dress right for an interview?
Srinivas Kumar Kotini
Hyderabad
Your appearance tells the employer how you see yourself - your clothes, hairstyle, choice of accessories etc will either reinforce or damage your professional image.
The best colours for men's suits are dark grey, navy blue and black. You don't have to wear a three-piece suit to an interview.
Shoes are extremely important - make sure they are polished and appropriate.
Even if the place of business is "casual" or "semi-casual," or it's a casual Friday, don't wear jeans.
Strive to dress professionally without over-dressing. A pair of dark, casual pants and a sports shirt will make a nice impression. Although it is important not to overdress, it is equally important not to be under dressed for an interview. If unsure, you can always settle for something in between.
Avoid flashy colours and prints. Choose colours that complement your personality. Avoid heavy wafts of cologne or perfume. Hair should be clean and neatly combed.
Enumerate the career prospects for ICWA and CS?
Manoj Rathore
via e-mail
ICWA involves getting involved with corporate finance and the operational aspects. Those who have qualified from ICWAI (The Institute of Cost and Works Accountants of India) have several career options, as all business organisations require their services. A qualified CWA can work with a practising cost accountant, or be employed in a cost accountancy firm. There are also openings in financial institutions, government departments, banks- both public sector and private, insurance companies, international organisations, multinational companies, industry - both private and public sector, investment companies and so on Qualified Company Secretaries can find well-paid positions in the private sector and public corporate sector; banks and financial institutions; stock exchanges; the Department of Company Affairs; company law boards and government departments. The larger the company and the wider its field of activity, the better the emoluments earned by the CS. Private consultancy jobs are a very lucrative option too. A CS can also become an adviser to a company/companies.
What do employers generally try to find out while interviewing a candidate?
Naveen Das
Kolkata
The top skills sought by employers today are interpersonal skills, teamwork, verbal and written communication skills, an analytical mind, computer knowledge and leadership qualities.
Analytical skills and leadership qualities are critical for success. An ideal candidate will also be a determined achiever, that is, a person who goes the extra mile to achieve personal goals. Such a person is not easily deterred. In an interview, the candidates are expected to demonstrate how they have used their skills in the past. So, it's not enough to simply enumerate your skills. You will have to demonstrate how you have used the skills.
Primarily, there are just three areas an interviewer would like to focus on: Can you do the job? Will you do the job? Will you fit in?
Structuring your interview around these three areas will help you address the most crucial issues likely to be covered during the interview, and give you a chance to prepare your key statements and responses to effectively market yourself.
What are the career prospects for Geologists?
Anand Rath
Panjim
Depending on your level of expertise and performance you could get a job in oil/mineral exploration, for which there is demand in various parts of the world. Those who study geology can become geologists/ geographers/ meteorologists/ oceanographers.
There are numerous avenues for them both in the public and private sectors. The Union Public Service Commission conducts tests for placements in Central Government agencies like the Geological Survey of India and the Central Groundwater Board. Similarly, Coal India, Mineral Exploration Authority, Oil & Natural Gas Corporation, Hindustan Zinc and several other organisations engaged in mineral explorations utilise the services of geologists. The Defence and paramilitary forces too are good employers.
Vatsala Narayanan
Visakhapatnam
The basis on which you will be judged is your academic background, qualifications and interests. If looking for your first job, ensure that your previous experience, even if it is part-time, is noticed. When asked: "Tell me about yourself?", focus your answers on your background and your personal accomplishments. Youneed tostand apart from the rest of the crowd, be it the way you dress,the way you talk or promote yourself. Capitalise on your strong points and assert your achievements.
Mention college projects or responsibilities you may have undertaken. This will indicate your area of aptitude. Mention specific accomplishments that show your abilities and determination to succeed in this job.
In case you have applied for the post of management trainee, you should display an ability to adapt, and indicate all-round interests. Moreover, you should have good interpersonal skills.
Show that you are enthusiastic to learn, and will be committed towards the organisation.
[The FAQ column deals with career concerns addressed to the C&K Management Ltd. P.O. Box 2178, Secunderabad 500003 or emailed to faqs@cnkonline.com]
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