Get that public school job!

Twenty ways to endear yourself to Public School interview boards

THE public school interview is most certainly not like any other interview board, since the constituents of the panels are required to vet the candidate, so that constant immersion with the students will have nothing but the most beneficent effects on them. The expectations of the panel will always far exceed those of any other panel, simply because the successful candidate will have complete control over the formative years of the future leaders of the country, be they political, administrative or in industry.

* Always dress formally, ideally however, a combination of a dark jacket with leather patches on the elbows with a lighter coloured pair of trousers is best favoured. Soft-shoes, an academic tie and a clean shirt are ideal accompaniments. A winter interview would indicate a light overcoat that should be removed and carried into the room and placed on the arm of the chair.

* Lady candidates are advised to wear sarees, and not salwar suits as the latter is considered rather frivolous. The saree should be sober, with minimum brocade though of excellent quality. Silk is well indicated though cotton is acceptable in summer. Modest earrings and a neck ornament are considered respectable. Lack of these is not appreciated. A shawl draped over the shoulders in winter is appropriate.

* Try not to look uncomfortable in whatever you decide to wear, above all do NOT wear very trendy clothes, as this would indicate your obsession with fashion.

* Your hair should be neat, never long, nor slicked down with gel or water. Ideally, obviously clean hair, not groomed too fashionably will find approval.

* Sit in a relaxed fashion. Never at the edge of the chair, and if offered refreshment never refuse. Always accept gracefully. When the beverage arrives, stir it with minimum noise. Use no more than two spoons of sugar and if the tea is brought as it generally is, separately, avoid using milk, requesting instead a slice of lemon. Do not slurp the tea no matter how hot it is, as this will prejudice your chances at once.

* While answering questions, turn your whole attention to the questioner and answer in a clear voice looking square into the eyes of the querent. It is a good idea to turn your whole body toward the questioner. Never make any sudden movements, as these will be viewed as graceless.

* Always acknowledge a good question if it is asked, say that you are glad that the question was asked as you would have liked to bring up the matter anyway. Answer factually, get to the point directly and speak in a firm, decisive tone.

* Always smile or hold a pleasant expression on your face. Never look too earnest or too eager.

* This is one kind of interview where talk about compensations should never be initiated, even if you are asked if you have any questions, and the matter has not been brought up by the board. A casual attitude towards salary, and benefits will stand you in good stead. Boards invariably remark on this component of the candidate's character.

* Carry any documents you may have in a briefcase, preferably a well-used, obviously old leather model as this indicates an adherence to traditions. Hand over any documents you might be asked for with style, showing great reverence for the document.

hould the need arise, always use a fountain pen rather than a ball-point as this will show your preference for the traditional way of life. Ideally, the pen should have a screw cap rather than a pull cap.

* If you happen to have topped the university or have played a significant role in sports, dwell on it only very briefly as if it is of very little account. Modesty and underplaying of your strengths is highly appreciated. It is wise to set off your strengths against any of your obvious weaknesses, wishing you had paid more attention to the latter.

* Make sure that you are able to convey your desire to teach. All first-time candidates are asked why they want to teach. A good answer would be that you have always wanted to teach the way you would have liked to have been taught, as it would have been much more enjoyable. Any variation on this theme would be acceptable.

* If you have studied at a public school yourself, refer to it as the alma mater, and if at a premium college, never name it (unless asked) always calling it college. Show your appreciation for your own education, stressing enjoyment of your formative years.

* Display a frank and open attitude, one that is always in a learning mode, and show your desire to extend your knowledge to young people. Such boards are looking for the sharing-caring attitude that must be apparent.

* If you are looking at a position that is sports oriented, make certain that you know all about the latest advances in the particular sport. You should have a strong bias towards playing the game properly and honourably rather than merely to win.

* Indicate your desire to instil the traditional value system that has prevailed in Indian society since the earliest times. Talk about the importance of family and spiritual development of young minds. Stress on the secular dissemination of Indian values.

* Should there be a question to which you do not have a good answer, do not hesitate to say so. Mention clearly that you do not have an answer to the question that satisfies you and further thought would be necessary before a satisfactory answer could be arrived at.

* Finally never hesitate to disagree with any opinion put forward by a member of the board, but remember not to be confrontationist about it. Show yourself willing to be convinced.

The twenty points mentioned above are those that have come up in the course of the many interviews in which I have officiated. Some date from the time I used to attend such panels as a candidate, where I am pleased to say I have always emerged successful. Candidates must realise that they are accepting a serious responsibility, which will impact the future of the nation in no uncertain manner.

S. Ramanujacharya