What do software companies look for in a fresher's application? Wonder how to approach your first job interview? Here are some tips from experts.

THE IT industry seems to be facing a boom again and as global software leaders gear up to recruit, here are some pointers straight from the industry for those aiming to join a software giant the minute they finish their graduation.

Getting the CV right
"Given the intense competition in the field, it is imperative to underline experience and technical capabilities with an emphasis on the projects done, team size, timeframe and key contributions," says G. Ramu, AVP, HR, iSOFT.

Praveen Kankariya, CEO, Impetus Technologies, notes, "Freshers have only a few seconds to make an impression on the busy recruitment team. Make the CV in a printable and readable format like MS Word document or an RTF format. Use common technical words so that it is viewable in any skill set search on job portals."

Vinod Reddy, CEO, CK Technologies, says, "Present details of educational qualifications in a tabular form."

Umesh Wason, HR Manager, Induslogic Inc., Delhi, says, "The structure is very important. Start with the summary, covering broad aspects on familiar technologies and personal strengths. The educational credentials and a brief reference to the technological knowledge should follow. Academic or industrial projects undertaken and achievements come next. Avoid information on family background, as it doesn't add any value."

Important questions
Mr. Wason says, "A lot of companies zero in on problem-solving skills, so be ready to answer such questions. It's not the right answer the organisations are looking at but the right approach." Mr. Reddy believes, "Interviewers will ask questions only about what one has done." Mr. Ramu says, "Clearly articulate the key take-aways from prior experience." Mr. Kankariya advises, "Be sure to go through the company site. That makes you aware of what you are getting into. It will help relate your potential better to the company's requirements."

Interview musts
Mr. Wason counsels, "Most companies in the software industry face high attrition rates, therefore it is essential to convince your prospective employees that you will stick for a while. Statements like `I plan to go back to my studies ' can often backfire. Show you are capable of meeting a commitment." Mr. Ramu, cautioning against the use of "I" which is not appreciated, especially while speaking on projects that have been team endeavours, says, "Project an image of being a team player. Stereotypical answers such as `I am committed, confident' are never encouraged."

Salvaging a discussion
Take heart, for Mr. Reddy says, "Interviewers are usually kind to freshers." Mr. Kankariya feels if questions stray too much towards areas candidates aren't comfortable with then they can always state their preference to be asked about a more pertinent skill set. He says, "Correct the situation mid-way, by admitting you started wrong. Then you can direct the discussion forward positively."

Tricky questions
Mr. Reddy alerts against personal questions with little bearing on work. Mr. Ramu says, "Questions on religion and cultural background are tricky. Beware of sexual discrimination." Mr. Kankariya provides a solution, "If you feel a question is incorrect, take your time and tell the interviewer, but make sure that you do not argue about it. Also, it is preferable if you can frame the correct question, and its response, and put that across as well. It's an indicator of intelligence and presence of mind."

`Must asks' for applicants
Mr. Kankariya deems it important that freshers must ask about the responsibilities related to the position applied, expectations and what the company's long and short-term growth plans include and basic policy information. Mr. Wason says, "If you couldn't answer any question during the interview, ask for the solution, since it reflects a positive attitude and zeal for learning." Mr. Ramu encourages, "Enquire about training opportunities, reporting structures and possibilities of higher education while working."

For first-time job seekers
Mr. Kankariya cautions, "Don't insist on a specific role. Get in as a trainee, prove your worth and work your way up. Never leave your resume at the reception. Meet the recruitment people and leave a positive impression." Mr. Wason says, "Fresh engineers often want to be Project Managers in two years. This is a big put-off. Be flexible, specially, when applying to a services company."

After interview follow-up
Mr. Kankariya says, "Talk to the relevant HR people to know the status. If there is a festival round the corner, send a `greetings' mail that also serves as a reminder. Make sure that you do not run after the company or call too frequently." Mr. Ramu adds, "Display enthusiasm and confidence even after the interview. Accepting failures and not being dejected is critical. Learning from such failures is the key to success in future interviews."