EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW WITH MS DHONI

You are the T20 World Cup winning captain, the skipper of India's first-ever Tri-series triumph Down Under too. Now that expectations are bound to multiply, are you under more pressure as captain?

I always go by my own expectations. Of course, it's important to perform well and give your hundred percent. There will be additional responsibility on all guys after our showing in
Australia, but we should not get burdened under the weight of huge expectations.
We should know what we are capable of and what we should do to get the desired results.

Did you always lead your group of friends too before you suddenly got the reigns of Indian cricket?

I am not really a born leader. In fact, I haven't led any side before I became the Indian captain.
But I always back my instincts. When the Indian captaincy was given to me, I took it as a challenge and a privilege.

Since you never led any team before actually becoming the Indian captain, how do you manage to look so comfortable in what is a very tough job?

It is very tough and very demanding, no doubt. Cricket is a religion in India. The expectation levels are too high. We play right through the year and people want us to win every game wherever we play. I guess if you have a good side with lots of potential, it eases the pressure
on you.

Some comments have been attributed to you suggesting that you tried to create a divide between seniors and juniors. It also gave the impression that your success has gone to your head?

A lot has already been said about it, I think I am a fairly level-headed guy. My team knows it and all the seniors know that I have a lot of respect for them. It was a needless controversy.
The team is strongly united. The players love and respect each other. That's what matters to me.

But the fact that BCCI chief Sharad Pawar had to intervene and actually drive home a point by announcing that you got the job only on the recommendation of Sachin Tendulkar...

Sachin Tendulkar is my childhood hero. I watched cricket only because of him and started playing the game too because of him. So I take it as a privilege that he found me worthy enough for the job. I am also grateful to the BCCI chief for making it clear that there's no division within the team. This is like one big family.
When I started playing for India we had great role models in the team like Sachin Tendulkar, Anil Kumble, Rahul Dravid, Sourav Ganguly, VVS Laxman and Virender Sehwag. I have always respected, and appreciated what every senior in the side has achieved because I know the kind of hard work and sacrifice that is needed to be successful at this level.
I have been impressed by Tendulkar's focus and devotion, Dravid's discipline, Kumble's determination, Ganguly's never-say-die attitude and Sehwag's audacity and will to dominate the bowling.

Did you ever dream of such a turnaround in your life and career?

I don't dream much. I live in reality. I plan for the future and I believe in taking one step at a
time. But, I give more than hundred per cent not just in matches but also in practice sessions. Luckily, I've been pretty successful in whatever I have touched so far.

INTERVIEW TIPS to BOOST your IQ

Even the smartest and most qualified job seekers need to prepare for job interviews. Why, you ask? Interviewing is a learned skill, and there are no second chances to make a great first impression. So study these 10 strategies to enhance your interview IQ.

Practice Good Nonverbal Communication

It's about demonstrating confidence: standing straight, making eye contact and connecting with a good, firm handshake. That first impression can be a great beginning -- or quick ending -- to your interview.

Dress for the Job or Company

Today's casual dress codes do not give you permission to dress as "they" do when you interview. It is important to look professional and well-groomed. Whether you wear a suit or something less formal depends on the company culture and the position you are seeking. If possible, call to find out about the company dress code before the interview.

Listen

From the very beginning of the interview, your interviewer is giving you information, either directly or indirectly. If you are not hearing it, you are missing a major opportunity. Good communication skills include listening and letting the person know you heard what was said. Observe your interviewer, and match that style and pace.

Don't Talk Too Much

Telling the interviewer more than he needs to know could be a fatal mistake. When you have not prepared ahead of time, you may tend to ramble, sometimes talking yourself right out of the job. Prepare for the interview by reading through the job posting, matching your skills with the position's requirements and relating only that information.

Don't Be Too Familiar

The interview is a professional meeting to talk business. This is not about making a new friend. Your level of familiarity should mimic the interviewer's demeanor. It is important to bring energy and enthusiasm to the interview and to ask questions, but do not overstep your place as a candidate looking for a job.

Use Appropriate Language

It's a given that you should use professional language during the interview. Be aware of any inappropriate slang words or references to age, race, religion, politics or sexual orientation -- these topics could send you out the door very quickly.

Don't Be Cocky

Attitude plays a key role in your interview success. There is a fine balance between confidence, professionalism and modesty. Even if you're putting on a performance to demonstrate your ability, overconfidence is as bad, if not worse, as being too reserved.

Take Care to Answer the Questions

When an interviewer asks for an example of a time when you did something, he is seeking a sample of your past behavior. If you fail to relate a specific example, you not only don't answer the question, but you also miss an opportunity to prove your ability and talk about your skills.

Ask Questions

When asked if they have any questions, most candidates answer, "No." Wrong answer. It is extremely important to ask questions to demonstrate an interest in what goes on in the company. Asking questions also gives you the opportunity to find out if this is the right place for you. The best questions come from listening to what is asked during the interview and asking for additional information.

Don't Appear Desperate

When you interview with the "please, please hire me" approach, you appear desperate and less confident. Maintain the three C's during the interview: cool, calm and confident. You know you can do the job; make sure the interviewer believes you can, too.



FOLLOW THESE 10 STEP AND CRACK THE INTERVIEW.