How to Ace a Walk in Interview?

A walk-in interview is an informal session conducted by companies on a specific date and time slot with a primary objective to screen a bunch of candidates in a short span of time. It differs from a scheduled interview in many aspects. While a walk-in-interview is conducted for the initial screening of the applicants, the former is administered to finalize the candidates for the company. Another important difference between the two is that the candidate pool in a scheduled interview is lesser in comparison to that in a walk-in-interview. In this blog, we will discuss some important tips and advice to ace the walk-in-interview. 

Also Read: How to Crack an Interview

Where is a Walk in Interview Conducted?

• Job Fairs: The objective of conducting an interview in a job fair is to screen multiple candidates at one spot. This helps interviewers narrow down to identify the most suitable candidates. 

• Office: Organisations conduct an open interview at their office as and when a vacancy has been generated or they have to hire candidates on a contractual basis. 

Also Read: How to Answer Common Interview Questions

Preparation for a Walk in Interview

Discussed below are some tips and tricks to ace a walk-in interview:

1. Research About the Company

The first step to crack a walk-in interview is to garner all the relevant information about the company. To gain an insight into what the company does and what they expect from you is crucial for you to know before going for an interview. You can choose to read the ‘About Us’ section and the job description on the company’s website. Update yourself on the latest events or some important accolades won by the company through their social media handles. 

2. Carry Relevant Documents

Be it a scheduled or a walk-in interview, it is advisable to carry the requisite documents prearranged in chronological order in a file or a folder on the day of the interview. Documents pertinent to an open interview are:

• Multiple copies of your resume/CV
• Passport-size photographs
• Photo ID Proof (like PAN card, Aadhar, Voter ID card, etc)
• Reference Letter (if any)
• Educational Qualification Certificates
• Marksheets
• Stationery like a  pen, pad, and a stapler
• Any other relevant document

3. Dress Formally

The first impression is the last impression. To stand out from the crowd, dress formally and put emphasis on personal grooming. Dress according to the industry standards, at the same time be comfortable in what you wear. A neatly pressed, light shade shirt with a tie is a great option for men. For women, a business suit or ethnic wear with minimal accessories can work well. While men should come clean shaved, women should keep their hair intact. 

4. Ask Questions

An interview is about you but it also gives a chance to garner more information on the company. The questions should stem from what you want to know and not what you already know. Asking relevant questions helps the panel gauge your interest in the role. You can jot down your questions on a pad before appearing for the interview. Some commonly asked questions can be:

• What are the day-to-day activities involved with the role?
• What are the challenges associated with the position?

5. Time is Precious

While some open interviews are conducted on a first come first serve basis, it becomes important to reach the venue for a walk-in interview on time. This not only helps you in getting comfortable with the office environment but you may also get a chance to be interviewed early. 

6. Make the Conversation Interesting

The interviewers not only gauge your technical skills but also see how you can dwell in the company culture. While preparing for the walk-in interview, find a common interest and share your ideas on the same. 

7. Confidence is the Key

Your body language speaks louder than words. It is expected of you to get a little nervous before the walk-in interview, but ensure that it does not affect your interview. Below are the tips on how to stay calm and confident:

• Be Optimistic
• Maintain Eye Contact
• Don’t Be Nervous
• Take a Pause and Don’t Ramble
• Smile and Try to Enjoy the Interview

Also Read: How to Be More Confident?

Some Commonly Asked Questions

The objective of conducting a walk-in interview is to assess the applicant’s technical knowledge of how they perform under stress. You can even add the company’s values in your answers. Here are some common questions asked in an open interview:

1. Tell us something about yourself?
2. What do you know about the company?
3. Where do you see yourself in the next 5 years?
4. How are you a suitable fit for the organization?
5. Why did you choose this line?

Also Read:

• How to Crack a Telephonic Interview?
• Chef Interview Questions Explained
• Ace Your Next Video Interview

With a long line of competitors, walk-in interviews can become a little daunting. To ease the fear of cracking an interview, you can reach out to our counselors at Leverage Edu who will not only help you in mastering the interview but will also help in creating a starling resume for your job application.