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IBPS AFO Interview Prep | How You Speak (for Communication Skills)

 


The way you speak and behave in an interview can significantly impact how you are perceived by the panel. While what you say is important, how you present yourself verbally and non-verbally also plays a crucial role in making a lasting impression. In this blog, we’ll explore common interview questions about communication and body language, providing helpful tips on how to approach the interview in the best possible manner.

1. How should you enter the interview room?

  • When you step into the interview room, do so with confidence. Knock gently if the door is closed and take the permission from the interviewer to enter the room. “may i come in
  • Greet the panel with a polite "good morning/afternoon" or "hello," and smile.
  • Try to make eye contact with each panel member as you greet them. This shows respect and self-assurance.
  • It is better to keep standing till you are asked to take a seat
  • When the interviewers ask you to sit down, say "thank you, sir/madam" before sitting down.

2. Should you wish the panel?

  • Yes, always wish the panel members when you enter the room. A simple greeting like "good morning" or "good afternoon" is perfect.
  • If the panel greets you first, acknowledge them by replying politely.

3. How should you sit during the interview?

  • Sit with confidence but avoid being too rigid. Maintain an upright posture and avoid slouching.
  • Keep your hands either on your lap or on the armrests. Avoid crossing your arms, as it may signal defensiveness or discomfort.

4. Should you look at all panel members while answering?

  • When answering questions, it’s important to focus on the person who asked you the question, but don’t forget to glance at other panel members occasionally.
  • This helps you engage with the entire panel, showing respect to everyone involved in the interview.

5. Is it okay to use hand gestures while answering?

  • Using hand gestures can make your answers more dynamic and convey enthusiasm.
  • However, use them naturally and avoid overdoing it. Too many gestures can distract from your message.

6. What should you do if you don’t know the answer?

  • If you’re asked a question that you don’t know, don’t panic. Take a moment to collect your thoughts.
  • It’s better to admit that you don’t know the answer rather than guessing. You can also explain how you would find a solution in a real-life scenario, showing problem-solving skills.

7. How can you improve your communication in an interview?

  • Speak clearly and at a steady pace. Avoid rushing through your answers or speaking too slowly.
  • Minimize the use of filler words like "um" or "uh." pausing for a moment to think before answering can help you avoid them.
  • Keep your answers concise and relevant, especially when you’re asked follow-up questions.

8. Shall you speak in your local language?

  • It’s best to give preference to english, as it is the commonly accepted language for most interviews.
  • If the panel members start asking questions in a local language, it is acceptable to respond in that language.
  • However, always start with english unless the panel specifically switches to a local language, as this shows your flexibility while respecting the formal interview setting.

9. Positive and Negative Body Language in Interviews
 
 

 
	 Aspect 
	 Positive signals 
	 Negative signals 

 

 
	 Posture 
	 Sit upright, lean forward slightly (shows interest). 
	 Slouching or leaning back (looks careless). 

 

 
	 Eye contact 
	 Maintain natural eye contact (shows confidence). 
	 Avoid or overuse eye contact (seems nervous). 

 

 
	 Hand gestures 
	 Use simple, controlled gestures (adds clarity). 
	 Fidgeting or too many gestures (distracts). 

 

 
	 Facial/smile 
	 Natural smile (looks friendly and calm). 
	 No smile or frowning (seems unfriendly). 

 

 
	 Arms/legs 
	 Open arms, feet steady (shows confidence). 
	 Crossed arms, tapping feet (looks defensive).

Conclusion:

Effective communication in an interview is not just about speaking well, but also about how you present yourself. By using proper body language, maintaining a polite demeanor, and speaking confidently, you can make a lasting impression on the interview panel. Whether it’s entering the room, answering questions, or handling tough situations, your approach can make a significant difference. Remember, the key is to stay calm, be yourself, and engage with the panel professionally.

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