Ever since liberalisation has spread its wings, the employment market in our country has undergone a sea-change. While there are ample opportunities for qualified people in technical and non-technical streams, a segment of society which is yet to get recognition of its skills and strengths and seeks an entry into the 'industry and multinationals, is the disciplined cadre of retired defence personnel. Despite an ideal fitness sound academic back-up and hands-on experience on high-tech equipment and the machinery coupled with the ingrained qualities of discipline, devotion to duty and non-agitational approach, suitable slots for the retired defence personnel are conspicuous by their absence.

Regrettably, the grim reality is that the breakthrough is nowhere in sight! Where are the gaps? Could it be that the technique of preparing a focussed CV is not known to them or that they generally meet their waterloos in the interviews.

It is in this context that the book under review, How to face Interview Successfully authored by Air Vice Marshal (Retd) SP Dhawan, Vice President, Air Force Association, Race Course, New Delhi assumes significant importance. Air Chief Marshal SK Sareen, former Chief of Air Staff and presently the President of Air Force Association aptly remarks in his preface to this book:

"The most critical area which haunts the candidate is the interview where his fate is decided. It is a universally accepted fact that qualifying in the interview is something like "crossing the rubicon".

There is an in-built awe and fear of failure in the minds of the interviewees which haunts them constantly. The author stresses on this psychological aspect throughout and assures the candidates that the members of the interviewing board are a 'friendly' lot, and that they try their best to get the "maximum" out of them to match the requirements of the job.The author has discussed the subject of "facing the interview" in an analytical manner. Elaborating the importance of punctuality, dress, manners, and etiquettes, the author has delved deep into the techniques of self-marketing.

A quick glance at the list of ‘dos’ and ‘dont’s will enable the interviewees to sift grain from the chaff. This ready-reckoner, infact, has been compiled by the author on the basis of his vast experience in the Selection Boards. It is extremely useful in gearing-up confidence levels of the candidates to face the ordeal of interview. To make matters further easy and realistic, the author has given two model interviews.

Air Vice Marshal Dhawan needs to be complimented writing this book. Quality of print is excellent and layout extremely pleasant. To top it all, the book is modestly priced (Rs 50 only). Recommended to all retired personnel looking out for a job.