From now on its your nerves and skills that matter. For the first-timers who do not have a taste of the Civil Services Personality Test, here are some useful tips based on first hand experience.
First of all, don't think that this is a conventional interview based on correct answers to the questions posed. As the UPSC manual says, this is a Personality test, a half an hour or so dig at one's mental set up. That's why you'll find a Psychologist sitting among the 4-5 members. Want to know what are all tested here?
Your general attitude, perception, value-orientation, problem-solving and communication skills.
So, in a nut shell, its a half an hour chat with you to know whether you've the capabilities to handle the job pressures of the Civil Services. My advice is: take as many mocks as possible- mock sessions handled by those who have some exposure to the ICS.
You may be asked to respond to questions that tests your opinion forming ability, awareness about current events of national and international importance, positive attitude, mental toughness, coping skills and decision making abilities.
Sample questions
Do you think that the ongoing Secretary level talks between India and Pakistan will help improve the bilateral reations between the two countries?
What is your perception about the hanging of the former Iraqi President Saddam Hussein? Has the execution changed the geo-political situation in any manner.
When a vast majority of the Indian population are poor and below the poverty line, the country is investing huge sums in Space Research? Do you think that this is a right policy approach of the Government of India?
Here are some simple tips that can help you in managing the show without much problems.
- Listen questions carefully, organise your answer in 4-5 seconds and then confidently answer them.
- Speak with a moderate voice and avoid mannerisms such as hand gestures.
- Be frank and sincere in your answers as the interviewers are very senior personnel who can see through any half baked and untrue responses.
- By politely saying no to totally unfamiliar questions you stand the chance of getting more familiar ones.
- Salutations are equally important and you have to learn how to conduct yourselves through the exercise.
- Don't get disheartened if you get a few alien questions. The next ones could be from your favourite area.
- Don't interrupt or argue with the interviewers.
As it has already been mentioned, mock sessions would do a lot good to you. All of you can expect certain bio-data related questions which can be predicted to a certain extent. These questions may lead the entire interview also. All help is on voluntary basis.
Best of luck
