UPSC personality test : 4 Secrets to ace it
The UPSC Personality Test, also known as the UPSC board interview, is the final hurdle that aspirants of civil services must overcome. While the written exams test their knowledge, the personality test evaluates their overall personality traits. Speaking confidently during the interview is crucial to demonstrate one’s ability to make informed decisions and lead as a future civil servant.
However, even the most confident people can falter in front of the UPSC board, so it’s essential to prepare and practice before the interview. In this blog, we’ll discuss some useful tips to help you speak confidently during the UPSC personality test.
Tips to speak confidently in the UPSC personality test
Be prepared for the UPSC personality test
The first step to gaining confidence is to be prepared. Before the UPSC interview, brush up on current affairs, your hobbies, and your hometown. Give special attention to the Detailed Application Form (DAF) and focus on the information you have provided there. Knowing the answer to a question will make you feel more at ease and confident. In case you’re asked a question whose answer you don’t know, it’s better to admit your ignorance than beat around the bush. The board knows that nobody is omniscient.
Practice makes perfect
Practice is the key to success. Apart from devising answers for possible questions, practice giving mock interviews with your friends or family. Ask them to judge your presentation and confidence. Rehearse repeatedly until you can convince yourself and others of your confidence. While practicing, focus on limiting stammers, controlling your speed while talking, and taking care of your body language while speaking. Practice talking in full sentences, and make eye contact to display confidence and honesty.
Pretend to be confident in the UPSC personality test
“Fake it till you make it” is a life coach’s mantra that truly works. Pretend that you are a self-assured person. Read about and imbibe the qualities associated with a confident person. Your thoughts will be positive when you try to act confident, and this will work as a self-fulfilling prophecy.
Master your body language
Body language speaks volumes about a person’s character. The UPSC board is looking for confident and professional individuals who don’t panic easily and show a great presence of mind under pressure. So, it’s essential to display an image of a person who is sure of themselves. Learn the correct body language, so you can emanate positive vibes during your UPSC personality test. Focus on your posture, tone of voice, and eye contact.
Conclusion
The UPSC personality test is the final stage in the civil services selection process. Speaking confidently in the IAS interview is crucial as it shows the panel that you are decisive and capable. If you are naturally shy, there are techniques you can use to develop confidence, such as practicing breathing exercises and calming techniques. Preparation and practice are key to gaining confidence, and you should focus on your body language, speaking speed, and eye contact. Additionally, pretending to be self-assured can also help boost your confidence.
The UPSC board is looking for confident and professional individuals who can handle pressure and display a great presence of mind. Therefore, it is important to display positive body language and the right attributes during your UPSC personality test. Remember to breathe deeply, stay calm, and be yourself. With these tips in mind, you can inspire confidence in the UPSC panel and fulfill your dream of becoming a civil servant.