A SSB  interview is not a mere formality. It is a test of your communication skills and capabilities. In the competitive market scenario, a SSB interview can make or break your chances of being selected by SSB. 

With so many options to make a choice from, and few differences in technical skills of freshers, it is the SSB interview which is the deciding factor in the selection of the right candidate/ Technical skills form the core of effective functioning, but soft skills are critically important for the knowledge to make the right impact. Both are equally important in the selection process. So, here are 7 golden rules that you can follow, to crack the SSB interview and impress the IO you were always wanting to work for.

#1 Communication Beyond Language: Understand the Importance of Active Listening 

Many people think that communication skills are all about the accent, tone, inflection and vocabulary, but there's a whole lot more to communicating effectively in the SSB interview. Actively listening and responding to what the interviewer is asking is important. Never interrupt a question or answer before the question completes. Understand the context and meaning of the question rather than attempting to answer it inadequately. Communicating effectively also means asking questions no matter how inconsequential they may seem. Answering concisely, clearly and in the right words can make a difference to the selection process. 

#2 The Body Language: Maintain an Alert and Friendly Posture

It is common to feel intimidated by the environment. But you need to watch out for this. Remember that the interview is not a judgement. It is merely a conversation with the purpose of assessing your suitability for the job. Sit straight and in a comfortable posture. Maintain eye contact and keep a pleasant and smiling expression to show an interest in the proceedings. Answer with clarity and loudness so that the interview hears you well. A pleasant, well modulated yet clear voice can work wonders. 

#3 Compatibility: Showing Flexibility Counts

Defence Forces  have a working culture which is different. You need to be prepared for questions that are not expected too. Freshers need to be flexible enough to adjust to the company's work environment. The aim here should be to showcase your adjustability rather than looking for a comfort zone. Rather than overreacting or saying extreme things, you need to stay neutral. This is an important indication of just how ethical yet adjustable you are. 

#4 Learnability: Efficient and Quick Adaptability Works Wonders

The strength of choosing a fresher is his or her ability to manage different operations, whether it is an expansion plan, a product development or an existing delivery process. Learning a new technology, culture or lifestyle can make a big difference to the organisation, so you need to show you have the capacity to learn and grow with the organisation. The indirect questions are often the most revealing, so think carefully before answering on academics, project work, challenges and trainings.