QUESTIONS OF TCS (HR INTERVIEW)

.
What is an interview? - Understand why interview is an important selection
tool and How to prepare

Tell me about yourself?

Why TCS?

What is your hobby?

What are your short term / Long term goals?

What are your strengths and weaknesses?

What would you do If you are not selected for this job?

If you could start your life over, what would you change ?

Tell me something about yourself which is not there in your resume / CV

Are you willing to relocate?

On a scale of one to ten, rate me as an interviewer

Who is your role model? or Who has inspired you in your life and why?

Would you lie for a company?

What do you think it takes to be successful in this career ?

Describe your ideal company, location and job ? What kind of job do you like ?

Can you work under pressure? or How do you handle pressure at work?

How your college life helped you to be employable?

Why should I hire you?

How do you deal conflicts? or Think of a situation where you handled a conflict
successfully?

Tell me about something you did-or failed to do-that you now feel a little
ashamed of.

Why did you apply for this job?

If you won $10 million or 10 corer, would you still work?

What is your most embarrassing moment ? How did you deal with it ?

Tell me about a situation when your work was criticized ?

How do you define Success?

Do you prefer to work independently or on a team?

ANSWERS

What is an Interview?
What is the purpose of an interview? When myriad of options are available, Why have
organizations chosen interview as the most crucial stage of the selection process? If it is
"a simple question and answer session", the entire tedious interview process can be
done away with a written test. But this is not the actual case. Interview is not a simple
question and answer session.
In Organizations, there are structured teams of people constantly work towards
achieving financial and other set goals. These organizations are incorporated with the
financial help of many individuals investing in the corporation by buying shares and
many institutionalized bodies like banks by giving loans. As there are thousands of
stakes holders vested their interests in these bodies to function, It is necessary for these
organizations to satisfy each stake holder. For example, If a company does not make
adequate profit, how can it repay the loans it has taken? Or How can they pay dividends
to the share holders of the company?
To accomplish these goals, a comapany has to recruit quality human force. Who is
vested with this job? The HR people. The onus is on the HR people of the company to
find the right candidates from virtually hundreds of people applying for the position. So
an interview should be a highly organized process of finding the right candidate to work
on like minded, goal oriented teams.
Compare the interview process with purchasing a laptop. When you go for purchasing a
laptop, do you consider all the important factors like price, configuration, color, after sale
service? Infact, we take quotations from several shops and we inquire our friends who
earlier purchased laptops from these shops then only we will make a purchase decision.
Similarly, When organizations recruit people, they also do all this due diligence before
they select any candidate for their teams. Your written test scores speak some
measurable metrics like aptitude, logical ability and verbal skills which are equally
important but the important qualities like, your attitude, team working capabilities,
leadership qualities, ability to handle pressure etc. may not be known unless an
interview is being conducted.
Having said that, Interview is an interpersonal situation where the interviewer try to
understand your personality and how that fits for his organization. To understand your
personality, there are specific questions designed to serve this purpose. Always
remember, each and every question asked in an interview has a purpose. But most
people think that interview is a random process.

There are certain myths associated with interview process

1. Interviewers ask tough questions
2. If I don't answer a question my interview is over
Interviewers always start with simple questions which can easily be answered by any
person with adequate knowledge in his subjects. If the interviewee answers these
questions correctly, the interviewer may proceed further to check the depth of the
knowledge. In this process you may face one or two tough questions but your failing to
answer these may not do any harm to your selection chances. But if you fail to answer
even simple and introductory questions the chances of rejection are more.
If you don't know the answer for any question, the interviewer may choose another area
to test your knowledge depth. That is why, most of the interviewers ask your favorite
subject or language before they start asking questions. The aim of the interviewer is to
check your personality.
Johari Window
This following diagram is called Johari Window after two american scientists Joseph Luft
and Harry Ingham. This is a very important tool to improve interpersonal relationships.
As interview is an interpersonal situation, Let us see how this frames work helps us
Here there are 4 boxes indicating 4 different situations every interpersonal situation may
fall. There are things which are known to us and interviewer. This part is called arena
and indicated by Box 1. Most of the things you represent in your resume may fall in this
category. Box 2 is called blind spot. Blind spot is the area where interviewer may know
about you but you may not aware of them. Very interesting. is it not? How come
interviewer comes to know about the things which you may not aware? Let us see
later.There are some things which you know but the interviewer may not. This is called
Facade (Pronunciation: fasadh). Facade is the front part of a building which may be
decorative but behind it may not be attractive or old. And the last part is unknown part.
Both the parties least interested in it.

Tell me when the mutual dependence and trust is more between two parties? It is when
the arena part is large. So it is our job to provide valuable insights to the interviewer so
that he may judge your personality and have trust in your abilities.
Now the interviewer try to judge our weaknesses which may reduce your work efficiency
by asking typical questions. But he may not provide any feedback how to cover your
weaknesses. A professional may be helpful in plugging those loopholes.
So based on the above analysis, the job seekers may fall into 4 catogories.

Ideal window: Where both parties have mutual trust

Interviewer: Kept on asking about others but does not commit to where he stands
Bull in china Shop: Kept on talking about abilities and what he thinks of about others
Turtle: Don't speak much

2. Tell me about yourself

Guidelines to answer this question:

1. Highlight your academic achievements.
2. Add your family details only when they asked.
3. Don't promise what you do if given a job, but expose your achievements.
4. Highlight any prizes you won.
5. Mention any prizes won for your paper presentations in various events.
6. Show how your personality has been shaped by relevant examples.
Read this section before you prepare your answer: Click Here
The answers given by these students are selected for one of the IT companies TCS, Wipro,
Capgemini. Use these sample answers and take good points in these to prepare your own
answers.
Sample Answer 1:
I am Srujana. I am a person with a lot of enthusiasm to learn new things and I follow the motto
Live Life to the Fullest. I mainly believe that hard work really matters in our progress. With my
hard work I was in the top 5 in the school. I continued this hard work and perseverance even in
the later stage, so I stood as a topper in the intermediate and mine was the best EAMCET rank
in the college, which led me to join in the reputed institution JNTU, KAKINADA College of
Engineering. But it didnt obstruct me to go for other activities like participating in several dance
competitions and in skits which were held during annual day celebrations in school and college.
I also learnt violin for few days but due to some reasons I dropped it. If I have a chance I will
continue this in the future. I have presented technical papers during my B.Tech. 2nd and 3rd
year. During the technical fest held in our college, I took part in the QUIZ committee and I
conducted stalls with my own initiation. I am mainly interested in watching films and I love to
listen songs (Filmy) in my leisure time.
Sample Answer 2:
This is Sravanthi. I am pursuing final year B.Tech. in the department of Electronics and
communication Engg., in University College of Engg., of JNTUK. I was into this esteemed
university, with my hard work, intelligence and commitment, with a good EAMCET Rank. I have
maintained consistency in academics since my schooling and I used to be in the top of the
batch. I maintained this performance even in my graduation; I am in the top 10 in the class.
Though I am strong in my academics, I had no interest in general reading, but I have developed
this habit for past 1 year. The books inspired me the most are The Monk Who Sold his Ferrari
by Robin Sharma and The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho. My favorite author is Chetan Bhagat.
Coming to my objectives in life, My family has inculcated the motto Live and Let Live into my

life which made my objective as starting an organization for Deaf and Dumb by introducing
sophisticated equipment to make them normal and I provide this at the optimum cost to the
needy. I am fully committed to achieve this objective as I have got the direct exposure to the
obstacles faced by these people in leading their lives from my childhood, as my sister is facing
the same problem.
Sample Answer 3:
Good Morning Sir.This is Dheeraj pursuing my B.Tech final year from Pragati Engineering
College. I've studied in various schools in various towns which gave me a chance to observe
various things like customs , languages etc. Once while I'm in my 6th class one of the student
from my school got prathiba award which inspired and motivated me in such a way that I worked
hard & I too secured Prathiba award by standing 2nd position in the West Godavari district.
From there onwards I do started to maintain a constant academic record to maximum extent
possible. My hobbies are reading books and following current affairs.
Sample Answer 4:
I am Ravi Kiran. I am currently pursuing my B.Tech Final Year in E.C.E stream. During my
academic career I had participated in many competitions and events achieved many prizes.
During my B.Tech I had given paper presentations in various colleges. One of the best is my
paper presentation on Global Positioning Systems for which I secured the FIRST Prize. I had
participated in my college events every year and I was appreciated for my services as volunteer
in my 1st and 2nd years. In the 3rd year of the event I had worked as a Designer and Team
Manager. In my school days I stood among top 5 students in my class. I secured 4th place in my
class VII Public Exams and 2nd in my class X Board Exams. I secured 78th rank in a District
level Competitive Exam in my X class. Not only in academic events but also in sports and
competitions conducted in various Schools and Institutions I secured many prizes. I secured
FIRST prize in CHESS competition and RUNNERS Prize in KHOKHO and QUIZ conducted in
my school. I secured RUNNERS prize in SHUTTLE competition. I was selected for a display in
an exhibition behalf of my school. I am a LEVEL 2 contributor for Yahoo Answers in the field of
COMPUTERS.
Sample Answer 5:
Hello sir,This is Avinash. My parents put my name as Avinash because, it means immortal.
They hope that whatever happen i must be safe. From childhood onwards i was enthusiastic
about new things and i was merit student from childhood. I topped several times in school.I
secured first place in Ramanujan state mathematics competition twice. From childhood i like
mathematics very much that's why I took MPC group in intermediate. Actually I studied up to
10th class in non english medium, but when i joined in intermediate in English medium i was
panic and not comfortable and i take Three weeks to settled there. After that i never feel
nervous.At that time my cousin got the job in HCL in Chennai and he told me that how he did
the hard work more than enough to get the job because of lack of skills. So better to improve
your skills from the starting of B.Tech if you want to settle in software or hardware side.But don't
neglect that one,if you think that before one month by hearting something is impossible. By his
guidance i was change my attitude according to career.
Sample Answer 6:
This is Sree Harsha From my childhood i like to participate in talent events as such i participated
in District science fair & bagged Second prize.It is then i understood the importance of practical
knowledge in our life.I participated in various technical events right from my first year & bagged
lots of exposure to team events.With that as the basis i designed a website for college technical
event . At the same time I learned the tech information such as resolving problems regarding

computer hardware,software,Virus coding ,Hacking & many tips to improve computer or internet
speed and details regarding the system.I also participated in Teaser round of Aspirations2020
conducted by infosys & was shortlisted to participate in college round.
Sample Answer 7:
I am Keerthi. My mother is a teacher and i lost my father when i was small. My mom being a
teacher used to tell me the importance of studies. This developed in me a natural interest
towards study. I was among the top 5 during my school days. But this never made me a
bookworm. I used to participate in the cultural programs conducted on teacher's day,
independence day and annual day. I took part in many dance programs and skits. I was the part
of the organizing committee too. I learnt classical dance for few years and gave many stage
shows during festivals. I have a lot of perseverance and i never get deterred by the failures. In
my 10th class even though I was among the top students in my school, my score was less when
compared to other school students . It was disappointing but my confidence was never
shattered. In fact this failure instigated me to work much more harder and by the dint of my
effort I was the topper of my college during intermediate. From this experience, I learnt not to
get disheartened by failures and carried away by the success. Whenever I find time I watch
movies and listen songs. Especially I watch movies which are very innovative like Transformer,
Narnia. Recently I have started reading books. One of the book which inspired me a lot is 'The
Magic Of Thinking Big'.
Sample Answer 8:
My name is Lakshmi Gayatri. My father is working in APSRTC and my mother is house wife. In
my childhood my father used to tell the importance of education. So i have lot of passion
towards my education My native place is tandrangi village in vizianagaram and We moved to
vizianagaram because of my education. .I stood at top 5 places during school days.With my
hard work and encouragement of teachers I got 738 rank in EAMCET. It is the best rank in my
family and its my biggest achievement. I have joined ECE in JNT university college of
engineering Kakinada. My strengths are confidence and commitment towards my work. My
weakness is my hand writing.. My hobbies are watching TV and listening songs.my goal is to
get a job and reaching higher positions in this organization.

3. Why TCS / Infosys or any other IT company?

We understood that from our first article "What is an interview?", companies are on the constant
look out for people who are genuinely interested to work with the company but not just for
money. If you are applying for a company only because it makes you financially strong in the
long run, the recruiters have a serious doubt on their mind that tomorrow if you are offered a
good package you leave the company. So apart from the money and job security, what really
makes you to apply for this position?
Guidelines to answer this question:
1. Goto company website and study their recent projects related to your
background.
2. Contact your seniors and ask what is so special about the company.
3. Check how the company helps you achieve your career goals and how
you can help the company grow
4. Don't praise the company.
The answers given by these students are selected for one of the IT companies TCS,
Wipro, Capgemini. Use these sample answers and take good points in these to
prepare your own answers.
Sample Answer 1:
Sir, I have seen from the website that TCS provides tremendous growth
opportunities for its employees. I think this is the place where I just like to work as
I always like to take inititation and try to utilize the opportunites provided to me.
Apart from that, It also gives me a chance to work with diverse work groups and to
improve my cross functional experience. In addition to that, I would like to improve
on my education qualifications with the help from TCS ongoing education programs.
That is why, I would like to apply for TCS.

Sample Answer 2:
As I am a fresher, I need to get the sufficient skills to enter this competitive world. I chose TCS
as the best option because TCS is known for its excellent training program and through this
training I can enhance my skills accordingly.
Sample Answer 3:
As I am new to the Corporate Environment, I chose TCS, one among the leading MNCs, which
enhances the skills and abilities of their employees by its good training.
Sample Answer 4:
I pursue a job with your Organization mainly due to 3 reasons.
1)
I will be very much glad if I am doing a software job in a prestigious organization because
of my interest in computers.
2)
By joining into a company like xyz company which gives importance to morals and ethics
and which was well established, I believe my future will be safe and secure as the companys.
3)
As your company have many branches all over the world, so I may get a chance of
exposure to various corporate cultures and opportunity to work for my company staying abroad.
That is why I pursue a job with your organization.
Sample Answer 5:
I hope that TCS is the best organisation to start my career and it helps me in such a way that if i
am starting my career in MNC's like TCS definitely i have better future.And i came to know that
in TCS way of treating the freshers was good.
your organization is providing Research & Development in Engineering & Industrial services
apart from Aerospace & Telecom.So being a graduate in Electronics & communication i would
like to pursue a job in ur organization because i feel that this might help me implement all the
knowledge that i acquired in my life into the realtime projects such as developing new product
with low cost which your organization is alredy dealing with.Moreover ur's is my dream
company .
Sample Answer 6:
The reason for choosing your company is because I feel that your rigorous training will hone my
skills and brings the best out of me.
Sample Answer 7:
Because some of my seniors told about your organisation and what type of projects we are
taking.And also heared that this organisation giving lot of oppurtunities to freshers and
conducting some training programs to freshers to gain more knowledge.So i like to do job in
your organisation.
Sample Answer 8:
I came to know that your organization is providing Research & Development in Engineering &
Industrial services apart from Aerospace & Telecom.So being a graduate in Electronics &
communication i would like to pursue a job in ur organization because i feel that this might help
me implement all the knowledge that i acquired in my life into the realtime projects such as
developing new product with low cost which your organization is alredy dealing with.Moreover
ur's is my dream company .

WHAT OUR EMPLOYEES SAY:

Working for TCS is more than a job. Call it an adventure, a thrilling roller coaster ride that
combines work and personal life. Since joining 19 months ago, Ive been able to experience
diverse fields and environments, and had the opportunity to take the lead on a number of
initiatives. Most importantly, I know that even more challenges await me in my futures roles
within the company. Alina Buzgar, HR Generalist, Bangalore, India
TCS has provided me the opportunity to see the global business environment we operate in
with much greater clarity and understanding. Its an honor to work for a company that balances
its passionate drive to compete and win with values and principles committed to the greater
good. Robert Kane, Director and General Manager of the Northeast Region, New York City,
USA
A CAREER AT TCS OFFERS:
Extraordinary opportunities for growth: We offer positions that allow you to challenge the
tried and true, and to collaborate across technologies and continents. New horizons, ongoing
education: A wealth of diversity in culture, training, knowledge, and experience gives employees
incredible opportunities to learn and expand their horizons.
Leading-edge innovation, 24/7: Innovation isnt just a buzz word at TCS; its one of the pillars
on which our entire business operates.
A diverse, global peer community: We are committed to bringing our best people to bear on
client projects regardless of where they may be located. This means that you get to work with
people across continents and organizational functions. You can learn more about particular
aspects of TCS by selecting from any of the following links.

4. What is your hobby or interest?

Hobby or interest is where we seek pleasure apart from our profession. A person who follows a
hobby seriously called afficionado.
You are expected to answer a few questions related to their profession or personal life like Date
of birth, Spouse name, their first movie, most successful movie, upcoming movie etc. These
questions may not be answered easily by others who are not following these actors. So
Interviewers check how serious you are by asking a few questions on your hobby. And you are
expected to answer most of these questions. If not, The interviewer believes that you perform
things superficially and don't go into depths. Similarly, If you are given a job, you just perform
things just for the job sake, but may not going to show any interest to learn more about it.
Guidelines to Answer this question:

1. If your hobby is book reading, read some serious books. A few fictions may not
suffice. What books you have to read. Books written by Dr.Abdul kalam (Wing of fire,
Ignited minds), Mr.Nandan Nilekani (Imagining India), Robert covey (7 habits of highly
effective people) etc.
2. If your hobby is singing, ready to sing a few songs sung by your favorite singer!
3. If your hobby is playing cricket, be abreast with latest happenings in the cricketing
world. Don't forget to learn about your favorite cricketer
The answers given by these students are selected for one of the IT companies TCS, Wipro,
Capgemini. Use these sample answers and take good points in these to prepare your own
answers.
Sample Answer 1:
My hobbies are watching movies and listening to music. I also do fabric painting and embroidery
work on the saris.
Sample Answer 2:
My hobbies is sketching. I also love to Cook. I read books in my spare time. I am also interested
in Gardening.
Sample Answer 3:
My hobbies are surfing internet & chat with my friends about some thing which is interesting at
that particular point of time.
Sample Answer 4:
My hobbies are solving puzzles especially I like Sudoku, watching movies, listening music,
computer gaming, learning about computers, surfing the internet, drawing, reading fantasy
stories and many other things. I like having chatter with friends and my parents about their past
events and discuss about future plans.
Sample Answer 5:
I usually surf internet & chat with my friends about some thing which is interesting at that
particular point of time.
Sample Answer 6:
My hobby is listening to music especially rocking music,surfing Hollywood movies on net and
chitchatting with my parents and friends.
Sample Answer 7:
My hobbies are surfing net about latest technologies in electronics & various other activities like
studying HTML & PHOTO SHOP lectures online. I also answer the questions posed by various
people online in Yahoo Answers portal in the category of computers & internet.I am a level 3
answerer with 12% best answers in that portal.

5. What are your short term / long term goals?

This question will be asked to check how clear you are about the new job. Also this question
helps the interviewer to judge whether your goals are matching with the company requirements
or not. Please remember Goals here means Professional goals not personal goals. I want to
start a orphanage or old age home may be your personal goal and highly appreciable on a
personal note but you have to check how your personal goal aligns with company expectations.
A short term goal is a goal which needs to be achieved usually below one year. A long term goal
is a goal which needs to be achieved in comparatively long time frames, say, 5 years.
As you know, fixing a goal and sticking to it till achieving is not so easy. This demands
meticulous planning and unparallelled dedication from you. So fixing a goal and charting a path
to achieve it requires a frame work.
A goal must be SMART

S - Specific : What do I want to accomplish?, Why I need to accomplish? Who is involved? What
are the requirements? etc questions helps you to be specific about your goal
M - Measurable: I want to become class topper is too vague. But "I want to improve my
aggregate by 1% in the next sem, and 2% in the next sem so that I can reach the top mark of
the class" may be a measurable goal.
A - Attainable : We need to think positively but being realistic is important. For example, I want
to become a CEO of TCS is a good goal, but it takes lot of hardwork, dedication, intelligence etc
to achieve that goal.
R - Relevant: As far as career goals are concerned, a personal goal may not be relevant here.
T - Time bound : Clear time limits need to be fixed.
So now we can attempt to answer this question based on the above frame work.
From the TCS website, the career growth of various employees have been given click here

The answers given by these students are selected for one of the IT companies TCS, Wipro,
Capgemini. Use these sample answers and take good points in these to prepare your own
answers.
Sample answer 1:
My short term goal is to quickly adapt to the job requirements, and to learn the work quickly. I
try to my level best to become a team lead from assistant system engineer in the next 2 years.
My long term goal is to work in diverse industries to gain maximum exposure. I am also looking
forward to having global exposure and cross functional experiences to make myself
professional. I want to become a consultant for IT services in 10 years time frame.
Sample answer 2:
My short term goal is to get placed in an MNC which gives me job satisfaction and to support
my family financially. And my long term goal is I will do my further studies in the stream of MBA
and I want to be in the Top Level Management.
(The student was asked about a few questions on management after this answer like what is
the difference between manager and leader? Tell me 5 qualities of CEO etc. So be prepared for
questions like this )
Sample answer 3:
My short term objective is to pursue a job in an MNC like TCS and my long term objective is to
become a project manager or something of the sort like the head of team.

6. What are your strengths and weaknesses?

Strength is something which gives you advantage over others to achieve something more.
Weakness is a bottleneck which reduces your performance.
What ever strength or weakness you say in interview, the immediate question would be "give
me one example why you feel xyz is your strength? or why abc is your weakness?
Guidelines to answer this question:
1. Find your real strength which you believe that you have gained more in your
professional career. Some common strengths are 1. Effective communication 2. Hard
working 3. Teamwork 4. Good organizing skills 5. Positive attitude 6. Adaptability 7.
Problem solving skills 8. Ability to learn
Be ready to give one example why do you believe that it is your strength.
2. Be double sure to say creativity or communication is your strength. If you say
creativity, how do you prove it? or If you say communication skills, the interviewer easily
judge by listening 5 minutes to you whether you really are articulate or not.
3. Choose your weakness in such a way that you can do something in future to overcome
that.

Sample answer 1.
I am a gregarious person and I can easily mingle with people. 2. My self-confidence and
positive attitude add beauty to my personality. 3. Through hard work and perseverance, I have
accomplished my EAMCET Rank.
My weakness is that I dont like general reading. But now I started Cultivating that habit and my
favorite book is The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho.
Sample answer 2.
I am committed to the work assigned to me and I complete it with in the time as I believe in the
statement Nothing is Impossible through dedication and hard work. I can make myself
comfortable and adaptive to difficult situations.
Weakness: I am little bit nervous to speak in a group. But I have given good number of paper
presentations to overcome this.
Sample
answer
3.
Confidence and making others as friends are my strengths. Whatever work i am initialise, i will
never loose the confidence till it gets completed. I was lazy to wake up on morning before 7.
But if it is necessary i can woke up.but i can do work up to late night. And i was frustrated when i
was loose my temper.
Sample answer 4.
My strengths are commitment towards my work, friendly nature & Puntuality. My weakness is
believing every one which sometimes leads me into troubles.
Sample Answer 5:
Among many of my strengths I like to mention My Hard working Nature, Honesty, Dedication,
commitment and responsibility in my work, good knowledge on computers, helping nature, good
communication skills, ability to manage with all kinds of people and finally my favorite is
speculating capability.
My strengths helped me lot in various achievements like top in class, recognized as good
student by my teachers. I was treated as computer guru by my friends. By seeing my discipline,
dedication and responsibility I got opportunity to be a project member for R&D Department.
My weaknesses is I am a bit sensitive i.e. easily gets hurt but I had habituated to control myself
in many situations I faced.
Sample Answer 6:
My confidence, perseverance in doing things are my strengths and they are crucial in my
success. In my second year B.Tech i presented papers. I was very nervous during my first
presentation and I could not even speak out properly. I prepared myself to that environment and
for my next presentation i was very confident and I won a prize for my presentation. The
confidence
is
all
that
matters.
My weakness is my nervousness and I overcome it by positive thinking and confidence.

7. What would you do If you are not selected for this job?

This question will be asked to see whether the incumbant has any alternate plans or how much
he is interested in the company. But always show disappointment on your face and having
positive attitude makes you win this question.
Sample Answer 1:
This is my first Interview. Though I get little disappointed, I do not carry this emotion for long
time. I will take this as an experience to rectify my mistakes and to attend other interviews with
confidence.
Sample Answer 2:
I will accept the failure with sportiveness. I will rectify my mistakes and prepare for other
interviews.
Sample Answer 3:
First thing to say, I havent thought anything about what to do if I am not selected in your
organization. All my academic performances, my good character and my unmatched skills and
strengths made me confident about my good placement in a MNC Company like yours. My
desire is to join in your company, grow into a worthy employee and if my dreams come true I will
become a part of the team in your Computational Research Labs.
Sample Answer 4:
I try to learn why i was not selected so that i could find the way to rectify the mistakes & appear
again to your organization in off campus interviews.
Sample Answer 5:
I am having a lot of interest in getting job in your organization. I never disappoint and i will learn
what mistakes i did and prepare well and again attend off-campus to your organization in few
months.
Provide your answer to this question in the comments section. If it contains any mistakes we
correct it. And if it receives good number of votes, we put your answer along with your name in
this page for others reference.

8. If you could start your life over, what would you change
?
This question is usually asked to uncover any life-influencing mistakes, regrets, disappointments
or problems that may continue to affect your personality and performance.
The answer is unique to each one of the student. Look back at what you have done differently.
If you are happy with your life then Indicate that you are a happy, fulfilled, optimistic person and
that, in general, you would nt change a thing.
Sample Answer 1 :
I did not realize the gap between education and corporate skills until my last year. If I could
start my life again the one thing that I would have done is to start preparing for employable
skills, read newspapers every day, improve my knowledge about companies and their business

from the first year itself. I realize now that it take time to become good at language or other
skills and all students should start working towards their career goals from the first year of their
college.
Sample Answer 2:
I havent realized the value of good communication or English language skills until I reached
the final year. I wish I have realized the importance of that in my early days. Fortunately Im
able to learn the skills now during my final year of college.
Sample Answer 3 :
Its been a good life, rich in learning and experience, and the best is yet to come. Every
experience in life is a lesson it its own way. I wouldnt change a thing.

Do you prefer to work independently or on a team?

Some people work best as part of a group - others prefer the role of individual contributor. How
would you describe yourself ?
This a tricky question to test your personality. In real life projects there will be situations where you
have to work alone and sometimes you have to work as a team.
Best Answer:
Based on a situation I wish to work either way. If there is something that is unique and that I could
solve it without much coordination or efforts from my team mates I will work alone but if coordination
is needed I would follow the project teams schedule and work schedules and work with the team.
The perfect situation would be a combination of working with information (data) for intelligent
information and team for experience on the projects.

9. Tell me something about yourself which is not there in your Resume / CV

This is an interesting question to test your personality. Interviewer is trying to know more about
yourself apart from your academics and your extracurricular activities. i.e., Your value system,
your ability to work with teams, leadership skills, etc. Be prepared for this question.
How to answer:
Think about how your personality has moulded over a period of time and try to think of a few
moments in your life that have had an impact on your behaviour.
For example, in your earlier days of your college, you did not like studying in groups, but during
your pre final year, you realized that there are many projects which require good team work and
you benefited a lot because of this.
Or initially you are a movie buff but after your scored less in a particular exam, you realized the
value of time and since then you are focusing on your academics.

10. Are you willing to relocate?

If an interviewer asks you if youre willing to relocate, you can assume one of these things:
(1) Being open to relocation is a preference for them, if not an immediate requirement, so if you
say 'no', you probably won't get the job; or
(2) The company has many offices across the country and there might be chance that your job
appointment will be at any of these locations which might be very far from your home city.
(2) They really like you and they're already thinking of your promotion potential down the road,
which is good news for you, but only if you're willing to relocate.
In all the above cases, the answer they want to hear is Yes. If you can say yes with
enthusiasm, then more better to you.
For some people, a few cities climate cause health problems. But I suggest you not to mention
this, but once you get selected, you can later talk to your HR manager and ask for relocation to
your interested city.
Sample answer 1:
Yes sir, I am ready to relocate if my services are required in that location as per the company
requirement.
Sample answer 2:
Sir I am adaptable to any kind of environment as I have studied in different places, can mingle
with anyone and I am eager to learn new things so that I can improve my skills and apply what I
have learnt to develop the company and it will be helpful for the company.

11.On a scale of one to ten, rate me as an interviewer.

TRAPS :
Giving a perfect 10, and youll seem too easy to please. Give anything less than a perfect 10,
and he could press you as to where youre being critical, and that road leads downhill for you.
Once again, never be negative. The interviewer will only resent criticism coming from you. This
is the time to show your positivism. However, dont give a numerical rating. Simply praise
whatever interview style hes been using.
Sample answer 1:
If hes been tough, say You have been thorough and tough-minded, they very qualities needed
to conduct a good interview.
Sample answer 2:
If hes been methodical, say, You have been very methodical and analytical, and Im sure that

approach results in excellent hires for your firm.

In other words, pay him a sincere compliment that he can believe because its anchored in the
behavior youve just seen.

12. Who is your role model? or Who has inspired you in your life and why?
To check how alert you are this question is asked. If you grope for an answer, it seems youve
never been inspired. If you ramble about your teacher youve wasted an opportunity to present
qualities of great value to the company
Tip : Have a few national heroes in mind such as Infosys Mr.Narayana Murthy, Wipro Azim
Permji, Tatas Ratan Tata, Sports personalities like Viswanathan Anand, Sachin Tendulkar, Sania
Mirza, Father of the nation Gandhiji, or anyone how is doing a great service at the local city or
schools or anyone else who has been your mentor.
Be prepared to give examples of how their words, actions or teachings have helped inspire your
achievements. As always, prepare an answer which highlights qualities that would be highly
valuable in the position you are seeking.
Sample Answer 1: Near my house we have a school run for orphans by a 70 years lady from
United States. She provides high quality education and very hygienic food to students with love
and care that I could imagine mother Teresa has come in her form. I get inspired with her
dedication, love and self motivation towards poor children and learnt the value of giving back to
society.

13. Would lie for a company?

This question is a trap to create conflict between your loyalties towards company against
personal integrity. But we usually lie about simple things. When you are getting ready for a
party and your friend call you to inquire about your being started, you say "on the way" though
you are still at home. But when it comes to organization, it is necessary to hold your integrity
upright even the situation is so compelling. The reason being, If you lie, and anything
unexpected happens, it not only spoils your career but also many stake holder depend on the
company are effected.
Suggestion :

Try to avoid choosing between two values, giving a positive statement which covers all bases
instead.
Sample Answer 1 :
I will consider lying only in a situation where there is a possibility of loss or damage to a project
or team spirit or companys core values are at stake. Otherwise I will look at alternatives but
would never like to lie.
Integrity is the most prized of all values for any company so never lie until as mentioned for
positive outcome only.
Sample Answer 2:
I would not tell a no or yes to this questions. Because sometimes telling lie is better if there is a
benefit to a mass, that is if the whole organisation is dependent and will improve and develop by
my simple lie then I must tell it. But being a part of reputed companies as yours will never lead
me to such a situation, its my belief and faith. I must abide myself to my values first, otherwise
for my personal benefits beyond the company's mass.
Sample Answer 3:
Sir, I do not favour lying as it creates more problems that it solves. And mostly there are many
ways of telling a truth. But if it is absolutely the demand of the situation, then I may lie for the
interest of the organisation but only after confirming that it does not affect the interest of others.

14. Describe your ideal company, location and job ? What kind of job do you like ?

This is a question to understand if you are really interested in the present company you are
interviewing and your view about what kind of job you like to do. If you do not express genuine
enthusiasm for the job, firm, its culture, location, industry, etc. in your answer then you are
giving a chance for the interviewer to eliminate you.
The reason you are attending the interview is that you like to work for that company. So make
sure to understand their work culture and just use that in your answer.
Sample Answer 1:
For me an ideal company is that which helps me to enhance my skills and helps me
in developing myself as a professional.

15. How your college life helped you to be employable?

This is where your active participation in seminars, competitions, networking with professionals
on social websites such as Linked in, joining groups in Linked in, Facebook and attending
employable skills classes conducted by professionals helps. So mention any seminars or
workshops you attended and projects you handled where you developed some professional
skills.
Sample Answer :
During my college days I attended many lectures given by corporate professionals on their
experiences at work that helped me to understand the value of knowing what present industry is
working on and what are different work cultures we need to fit in. I realized the importance of
networking with professional on social website, joined specific groups and discussions on
certain subject matters that could make me ready to be employed by the time I finish my
college. This was possible because my college has allowed me to have professionals come
and share their wisdom in the form of guest lectures.
Provide your answer to this question in the comm.

16. Can you work under pressure? or How do you handle pressure at work?

This question is very relevant in modern day work place because most of the employees are
under constant pressure to remain up to date in their work and be able to work for extended
hours (sometimes all day and night ). Example : Those who are opting for jobs such as
software and those who work in very competitive business environment face more stress and
high pressure. So the interviewer wants to find out how strong you are in handling such
stress/pressure.
Try to recollect a situation where you felt highly stressful and have to deal with it. Facing
competition from fellow students, examinations, family issue, money matters, health, personality
issues are some examples where stress/pressure are inevitable.
Sample Answer 1 :
Me and my classmates were preparing for a very tough competition on all India level where we
have to present a topic to a group of experts. There was enough time for us to prepare the
required presentation and do rehearsals. Every day we thought we will start working on the
presentation and used to stall if to next day. Suddenly we realized that we dont have enough
time left for doing a good presentation and we are under tremendous pressure. We decided
that we will not sleep until we finish preparing the presentation. We successfully finished
preparing the presentation and we spent extra hours to prepare and did reasonably well in the
competition.
Sample Answer 2:
Yes sir. Because I believe that there is no gain without pain. Pressure is generally an
opportunity to step one more feet higher than present. It teaches us how to work in
different situations and how to work in a smart way.
Sample Answer 3:
I think working under pressure is good to some extent because it creates
seriousness in the person and makes him to concentrate more on his work and
helps him to finish the task on time or even before the given time. But anything in
extreme is always bad.
If the pressure is very high one can feel nervous and cannot put on his best efforts.
So if I feel that the pressure is optimum I will take it as a challenge and will try to
give my best. But I feel that the pressure is very high I definitely cannot work under
such pressure. Even if I work I think I cannot give cent percent result which my
superior desire for.

My ideal job is one which gives me satisfaction and also in which I can use my whole
potential.
My ideal location is that where I can get new things to learn and where the people
around me are hardworking, honest and for whom the work is the first priority.
Sample Answer 2 :
This is my ideal company for which Im interviewing for . I love to work in a company where
there is enough room to use my skills without fear but simultaneously acquire new skills from
team mates and the projects. I enjoy and look forward to learn something new on any given day
so I can use the experience in the projects I work. As far as location is concerned Im presently
a bachelor and ready to work anywhere as long as Im comfortable with the culture,
surroundings and the work environment and growth opportunities the company provides.

17. What do you think it takes to be successful in this career ?

This question is to make sure that you work to a plan. The interviewer wants to check how
serious you are towards work. The tip is to know full details of the industry where you are wish
to work, know what are the best work practices employees follow, what tools they use to
efficiently do work etc. Prepare for this question by asking your senior what tools they use, how
they work and what are the practices that they have to adapt in the company to accomplish a
given task.
Sample Answer :
I spoke to some of my seniors who are working in the same position at the company and found
out what is needed to be successfully working and the standards expected from me if Im given
the job. I realized that I have to improve my communication skills, industry jargon, to be able to
use tools and techniques when required, and I should be physically and mentally be agile and
well to succeed in my career.

18. How your college life helped you to be employable?

This is where your active participation in seminars, competitions, networking with professionals
on social websites such as Linked in, joining groups in Linked in, Facebook and attending
employable skills classes conducted by professionals helps. So mention any seminars or
workshops you attended and projects you handled where you developed some professional
skills.
Sample Answer :
During my college days I attended many lectures given by corporate professionals on their

experiences at work that helped me to understand the value of knowing what present industry is
working on and what are different work cultures we need to fit in. I realized the importance of
networking with professional on social website, joined specific groups and discussions on
certain subject matters that could make me ready to be employed by the time I finish my
college. This was possible because my college has allowed me to have professionals come
and share their wisdom in the form of guest lectures.

19. Why should I hire you?

Believe it or not, this is a killer question because so many candidates are unprepared for it. If
you stammer or say something nonsense you risk losing the job. If you know the duties and
requirements of the position you applied, this question will give you a big leg up over other
candidates because you will give interviewer better reasons for hiring you than anyone else.
Whether your interviewer asks you this question explicitly or not, this is the most important
question you should ask yourself before applying for any job so that you are prepared with the
right answer if the interviewer asks you this. We all know that there will be other candidates
who are also equally eligible for that position so answer carefully.
Sample Answer 1 :
I carefully cross checked my skills verses the requirements of the posting for which Im being
interviewed by you. I have full confidence that I will be a good fit if considered because I will be
in a position to start working with the project teams quickly and do my best to deliver quality
work once Im given the job.
Sample Answer 2 :
I meet all required educational qualification for the job. I am physically fit and mentally alert. I am
no one to ask you hire me. But I can assure you that if you hire me, I will prove myself to be a
valuable asset for the company.
Sample Answer 3 :
I am a fresher but I have requisite qualification what you are looking for. Apart from that I am a
quick learner and easily adoptable to new environment/technology.
Sample Answer 4 :
Being a fresher I keep my mind open to every necessary thing that is to be learnt for the
enhancement of the growth of the organization as well as self. I strongly believe it is more like a
mutual benefit and cooperation accord between me and the organization where in I gain the
knowledge and the company gains the reputation with time along with increase in revenue.

20. How do you deal conflicts? or Think of a situation where you handled a conflict
successfully?

This question is to judge couple of factors such as your team skills, how you handle your
emotions and how well you solve a given conflict. The interviewer wants to find out, if you know
how to deal with others and challenging situation.
You have to check if you have any stories to tell where you resolved the conflict. Think of
differences with friends, family or others and how you are able to handle it.
Here is one story that happens quite often in college days. Let us say that you are part of a
team and your class is responsible for planning and hosting a big event at college. You are
given some tasks and you depend on your other team mates; so that together you all can come
up with good outcome of your efforts. But your friends are not doing their part well and you are
upset with it. Think how you deal with it and solve the conflict.
Sample Answer:
We hosted a big event which had multiple programs and our team was assigned to take care of
receiving the guests, serving them food, beverages, giving them the right information of where
and what events they can attend. My team mates were not paying attention to the tasks
assigned to them and I was having hard time keeping them together. I took up the issue and
gathered them together and explained the problem. I told them that by knowing and networking
with the guests they may benefit from them in future in some form. So they realized the value of
doing their job. Most of them have realized the mistake and together we are able to finish the
task given to us.

21. Tell me about something you did-or failed to do-that you now feel a little ashamed of.
This question is a trap to see how you feel or regret a situation. Some interviewers ask this
question to see how you will view a failure and how you planned to correct the failure so that the
mistake is not repeated again. In real life projects the chances of failing are possible and the
interviewer has to make sure how well you handle the failure, how you correct the mistake and
move forward by not repeating the mistake again. Some unprepared candidates may consider
some personal or family failure as theirs. Again this question should be answered with respect
to the job position you are applying.
My observation about college life is that most of the students wont pay attention to what matters
most during college and how college education helps them to build their career and life. They
waste tremendous amount of time on gossips, wandering around and studying just before a few
days to exams etc. So in my opinion I think the following answer aptly applies to most of the
students.
Sample Answer :
I failed to understand the value of time during my early days of college life and now I feel upset
about. Fortunately I was able to meet corporate professionals from Indian and foreign

companies who gave lectures at my college and realized the value of time and how to allocate
time for what is important to life.

22. Why did you apply for this job?

This is a very important question. The interviewer is trying to gauge how much interest
genuinely you have to apply for this post. So try to learn about the job description from PPT (pre
placement talk) or from your seniors who already work for the same company. Don't say like
because your placement officer forced you to sit for the selection process, or just for fun as you
already got another job. And more wrong answers include good salary, biggest company in
Asia etc. Try to match your skills with the job requirement. Show genuine interest in the
company.
Sample Answer 1 :
I checked the job description and found that the requirements are matching with what I studied
at college so I felt I will be a good fit for the job and will be able to start working on company
projects with confidence once the initial orientation is given about the company culture and
standards.
If you are NOT a computer science graduate ( electrical, electronics, mechanical engineers
applying for softward job etc.) the answer should be as follows:
Sample Answer 2 :
Even though I graduated from other branch (electrical or electronics or mechanical etc.) I found
out that the company has projects in my domain areas (electrical, electronics, mechanical etc.)
So I felt with little training in the best practices of software my domain knowledge will help me to
successfully work in domain specific software projects that is why I applied for this position.

23. If you won $10 million or 10 crore, would you still work?

This question tests your attitude towards work. Diplomatically you should say, I can continue to
work but providing a more convincing answer is really impressive.

Sample Answer 1:
Yes, I will work because if luck can bring me a lottery, then fate can make me lose it as well.
Good times are always followed by bad ones. There are always ups and downs.
Sample Answer 2:
Yes Sir, I will continue my work with you. Money comes and goes whereas the knowledge and
skills that I will get at your organization is my life time opportunity that I dreams. So money is
only important for the luxuries life but knowledge is for success in each and every moment of
your life.
Sample Answer 3:
First, I will take two days approved leave from my boss and smartly invest these 10 million for a
better future with a professional's help. I will continue working because "The more you learn,
The more you earn". I believe working on day to day challenges give so much of learning and I
don't want to stay on that.
Sample Answer 4:
I will be so exited and will for sure take a vacation fro work because I cannot focus at that time
for a while until my excitement comes down. Since I have not seen that kind of money I will take
trust worthy person's advice what to do with that money. Meanwhile I will continue working until
I get some clarity of what can be done with that kind of money and then decide the future steps.

24. What is your most embarrassing moment ? How did you deal with it ?
HR managers feel this question helps them in understanding a candidates ability to deal with
delicate situations. The answer could be based on a personal or a professional moment but the
emphasis should be on what you learnt and how you converted it into an opportunity.
Sample Answer 1 :
While in the third year of my engineering I was asked to speak in an event where our Directors,
professors and other eminent personalities are sitting and I was so scared to speak in front of
such great audience. I felt to embarrassed and upset with myself that I decided to get rid of my
stage fear from then on by practising speech in an empty room first and later with my friends as
audience.
Sample Answer 2:
I could think of a recent moment I felt little embarrassed. Recently I went to watch a movie. My
seat number is I 10 but I sat in Row J as the row names are placed a bit confusingly. After 10
minutes of starting the movie, A couple came and told that this is their reserved seat. I am a bit
confused and want to check my seat number. At the same time, usher came and showed my
seat. But in the mean while the people at the back of the row and others are restless as we are

moving front and back. I think this is really embarrassing.

Sample Answer 3:
Recently I went to a marriage. When one of my relative introduced me to another relative, I
could not recall the other person but it seems he knows me well. At that moment I felt really
embarrassed and taught to myself that remembering some close relatives names is very
important for handling social situations like this.

25. Tell me about a situation when your work was criticized ?

This is a tough question because its more clever and subtle way to get you to admit to a
weakness. You cant escape it by pretending you've never been criticized. This question is
also intended to probe how well you accept criticism and direction.
Look back at an incidence where you are criticized for not doing your duty well. Examples:
failing a subject, not getting good percentage marks or bunking classes and missing home work
projects etc.,
Sample Answer 1:
I was not mature enough to understand the value of working on the project work at college and
my project work did not meet the expectation of my professors and he/she criticized me on my
lapses. I realized the value of quality work then and decided that I make sure to follow it in
whatever I do in life
Sample Answer 2:
While I was in the third year of the college, we organized a technical symposium. I was given
the responsibility of food arrangements. Even though our team planned very carefully with the
limited amount of budget we have, some food items ran out and some people started
complaining it. We were criticized for not making proper arrangements.

26. How do you define success ?

Give a well-accepted definition of success those points towards any accomplishments you have
achieved in your college or school days.
Sample Answer 1 :
Success in my opinion means; the progressive realization of a worthy goal. When I accomplish

good performance in my education by scoring high marks I consider that as success. When I
make someone happy I consider that Iam a successful person in bringing cheers to someones
life. So success can be defined as a positive outcome from our actions.
Sample Answer 2:
Success for me is when I set a goal for myself and realized it. So it is a journey but not a
destination. Only by setting goals periodically, I can continue my journey towards success.
Sample Answer 3:
Given my family background and problems I faced in my life, Success for me is getting a good
job and sorting out those problems.
Sample Answer 4:
In my opinion Success is When I put 100% of my effort into something, though I may not be
getting top position. This certainly gives me lot of confidence and gives me a chance where I
overlooked those areas I can improve o

27. Do you prefer to work independently or on a team?

Some people work best as part of a group - others prefer the role of individual contributor. How
would you describe yourself ?

This a tricky question to test your personality. In real life projects there will be situations where
you have to work alone and sometimes you have to work as a team.
Best Answer:
Based on a situation I wish to work either way. If there is something that is unique and that I
could solve it without much coordination or efforts from my team mates I will work alone but if
coordination is needed I would follow the project teams schedule and work schedules and work
with the team. The perfect situation would be a combination of working with information (data)
for intelligent information and team for experience on the projects.