Why Wasn't I Selected? Seeking Advice on Improving Interview Skills and Understanding HR Expectations

Dear Friends and Seniors,

I recently attended a campus drive at my college. The company is quite famous, a three-letter one, known as one of the best in the IT/ITES sector.

There were 4 rounds:
1. WRITTEN
2. GD
3. TECHNICAL
4. HR

I had cleared all 3 and was confident of clearing the final one too. They even collected my RESUME AND 2 P.P size photographs (they didn't collect from others).

However, I was surprised to find that my name was not on the list of selected candidates. They chose only 1 person per stream, 1 in HR, 1 in Marketing, and 1 in Finance.

This happened around 2 weeks ago, and I am still trying to recover from the shock.

I believe I excel in basic presentation and communication skills. I performed well in the GD and technical interviews.

My academic track record is strong: 86% in 10th grade, 95% in +2, 78% (first class with distinction) in my B.E., and a 7.42 CGPA in my MBA. I also have about a year of work experience.

I was well-prepared for HR-related questions such as ESI, PF, maternity benefits, appraisal systems, training, and development, among others.

I was asked around 12-15 questions in the panel, and I answered approximately 10, of which I am sure at least 8 were correct.

Queries and Concerns

1. Why was I not selected? Does the HR panel expect all correct answers from a fresher?
2. Is providing detailed answers a negative point? I tend to elaborate. Is this bad?

My staff and placement coordinators attribute my non-selection to sheer bad luck. They suggest that if there had been more than 1 HR position, I might have been an immediate choice as one of the best candidates in the college. Should I believe them?

Lastly, I acknowledge that no one is perfect, and I may need to improve in some areas. Please suggest other areas where I need improvement.

Are there any courses I should attend to improve my interview skills?

Any other tricks and tips are welcome.

If you know of any relevant job opportunities for a fresher in HR, please refer me.

Thanks and regards,

Sharranya V. Ganesh.

I feel that there was little transparency in the process and I want to get feedback as to why I was not selected. Can I contact the concerned party and ask them (on a personal account)? Also, they have my resume, other documents, and my photos, and I don't want them to remain with them. How can I retrieve these items back? Please clarify.

Regards,
Sharranya V. Ganesh

Don't be so conscious about an interview. From your words, I felt that you are totally fed up. There is no need to worry about past matters, whatever they may be. You have to look forward. Many great opportunities are waiting for you. Based on your academic results, I can understand that you are a hard worker with great potential. So, cracking an interview is not a big deal. I am here to provide answers to your queries.

1) We don't know the exact expectations of an HR panel, but we can prepare before attending an interview. Learn about the company, its background, policies, and study the job description. This will help you understand the company's expectations.

2) Providing detailed answers shows a positive attitude. If needed to give a thorough explanation, you can inform them before answering.

3) You can believe in yourself, but at the same time, don't sit idle; continue to search for other job opportunities. Avoid overconfidence, dear Sharranya, as it often leads to risks and failures. Before an interview, overcome overconfidence.

4) There are no shortcuts to cracking an interview. Read numerous articles on interviews; this will boost your confidence.

5) In my opinion, you do not need to take any courses to excel in interviews. Instead, read more books and enhance your memory.

I hope you secure a good job soon. Wishing you all the best, Sharranya. Stay positive always. May God bless you.

Thank you.

Regards,

Preethul Ashok

As per your query, HR professionals not only look for your hard skills (such as knowledge about ESIC, PF, etc.), but most companies, specifically big brands, also look for soft skills (such as communication skills, attitude, ability to handle pressure, personality, appearance, and more). The list is extensive, and every organization focuses on different criteria for selecting candidates based on their organizational needs, culture, and policies.

So, don't get demotivated as this is a common occurrence in HR. If you are planning to pursue a career in HR (I am not sure about this as you have not mentioned the specific stream you applied for), you need to be patient. Additionally, remember that HR is a thankless job; HR professionals often find themselves caught between management and employees, so be prepared for that.

Wishing you the best of luck in securing a position with a reputable organization.