What Should Not Do in UPSC Interview?

September 5, 2023

In UPSC, the interview is the final stage of the recruitment process for various posts of civil services in India. As we know about the UPSC IAS Syllabus and Exam Pattern, the UPSC Interview is also known as the Personality Test for the short-listed candidates from pre and main exam results.

Many shortlisted candidates and toppers fail to qualify at this stage due to some mistakes committed during the interview. Most of the candidates attempt this interview for the first time and do not know what should not do in UPSC interview, so how can you impress your UPSC interviewer?

Most of the Civil Services Exam Coaching centres like K3 IAS Academy Indore offer UPSC foundation course having mock interviews and preparation guidance. This can help you to make it easy to tackle the interview.

What are the Mistakes in UPSC Interview to Avoid?

From IAS gurus and toppers, we have revealed some of the mistakes made by candidates during the interview, learn these interview tips and be confident in the UPSC interview.

1. Improper Dressing

Some candidates ask me, “Can I wear jeans in UPSC interview?” I say that your looks are the mirror of your personality and it will show your attitude and individuality. Avoid clothing and accessories that look glittery and extra shiny. This is a formal interview and the dressing sense will also be formal. Clean and iron your clothes thoroughly so that you look worthy of what you came for.

2. Negative Body Language

Civil Services Group A posts are very crucial jobs and require smartness and effective communication skills. Your body language is also your individuality to express yourself. Observe and work on your gestures, hand movements, and eye contact. Avoid crossing your arms, yawning, and looking at the time.

3. Disregarding Ethics

The interview panel will carefully examine your ethical values and your integrity. You should avoid making statements that may create a negative image. Think like an IAS officer and answer carefully to justify it completely.

4. Overconfidence

Confidence is important in an interview but overconfidence can get you disqualified from the examination. Don’t be arrogant and give a one-sided opinion to create a negative impression. Treat the interview as a respectful exchange of ideas. Also, try to avoid giving unproven answers and exaggerating your achievements in your application.

5. Getting Panic

Candidates who get nervous in the interview and are unable to answer the questions properly leave a bad impression on the interview panel. Stammering, not making eye contact, and sweating are the common signs of nervousness. We suggest practising speaking and preparing well for the questions.

6. Getting Defensive

In a UPSC interview, the panel can ask any kind of question to divert your attention and make you defensive. Whether they challenge you or argue with you, don’t take their questions personally, you have to remain calm, composed and objective and understand the tricks they use on you.

7. Political Biasing

Avoid answering political questions with your personal opinions or biases. This can be disrespectful and insensitive. Instead, try to give neutral and diplomatic answers.

8. Interrupting or Overlapping Speech

Don’t interrupt the interviewer while they are speaking. Let them finish the question or statements and then start answering. Listen carefully to the question, think about the response and then answer.

9. Lack of Clarity

Make sure your answers are clear and to the point. Irrelevant and long answers may reduce the interest of the panel and lead to frustration. Since time is very important for the interviewers, keep your answers short and clear.

10. Inappropriate Body Language

Your body language matters more. Poor body language such as slouching, lack of eye contact, unprofessional gestures, excessive movement, etc. can have a negative impact. Try to maintain good posture and eye contact.

11. Ignoring the Panel's Feedback

If the panel suggest some tips or gives feedback during the interview, take them seriously and implement them accordingly, this will show your adaptability and willingness to learn. Before the UPSC interview, read common interview questions, record yourself while practicing and then watch your answers and your body language, get feedback from a friend, family member or mentor so that they can help you improve your answers to avoid mistakes in the main interview.

12. Not Being Yourself

When you’re preparing for an interview, it’s important to do your best to present yourself in the best light possible. However, it’s also important to be yourself. Trying to be someone you’re not will only backfire, as interviewers can spot a fake a mile away.

Authenticity and honesty are two qualities that are highly valued in the IAS job. UPSC want to hire people who are genuine and trustworthy. So, don’t try to be someone you’re not. Be yourself, and let your personality shine through.

13. Making Assumptions

If you find a question unclear or you are not sure of the answer, do not make assumptions. Clarify the question with the interviewers before answering.

Sometimes, the interviewers may ask illogical questions to test your clarity of thought and analytical skills. In such cases, it is important to stay calm and ask for clarification to understand the intent of the question.

14. Guessing Answers

If you’re not sure about an answer, it’s okay to say you don’t know rather than guessing or giving the wrong answer. Here’s a tip: Try to keep up with current events in India and the world, especially topics that may come in your interview. Not knowing recent news can make it seem like you’re not really capable or prepared for the interview.

15. Ignoring DAF

UPSC DAF is an extensive document which requires candidates to fill in their personal, educational and other relevant details. Not paying attention to your Detailed Application Form (DAF) can land you in trouble, as many questions can be asked in the interview based on it. Research your chosen career preferences and optional subjects.

Conclusion

Remember that the UPSC interview is your opportunity to showcase your knowledge, suitability, and personality for civil services. Be with a positive attitude, sincere desire and good communication skills to serve the nation.

Find a way to improve your interview skills, many UPSC institutes provide mock interviews. Search for the best IAS institute and ask them to coach you to excel in it.

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Kinchit Sir

Kinchit Sir, the driving force behind K3 IAS, is a highly accomplished individual who has cleared the UPSC mains examination four times and has been interviewed three times. With a wealth of experience and expertise, he is a dedicated and passionate educator committed to assisting students in overcoming challenges, building confidence, and realizing their dreams of becoming civil servants. His ultimate goal is to empower aspiring candidates to serve their nation to the best of their abilities.

What Should Not Do in UPSC Interview?

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