What is your outlook on placement for this academic year?

The scenario is tough but companies are hiring

Let me explain:

• Companies show interest in hiring but remain cautious on the numbers to hire. We expect this trend to continue till March 2021. But this trend will ease off along the way
• Companies have become very choosy. They are particular about finding the right talent
• Screening of CV is rigorous. These companies do multiple rounds including aptitude tests
• The only way to overcome these hurdles is to prepare painstakingly

How have recruiters adjusted their plans this year? Do you see optimism and a rebound in hiring with the prospect of a vaccine and improved economic performance in Quarter 2 of FY 2021?

As explained earlier, recruiters have scaled down their hiring for the current financial year. But with rising hope of a vaccine, the economy is expected to recover in the third quarter of FY 2021, for sure. Recruitment is directly related to this economic recovery and the sense of optimism.

Which sectors of industry have shown greater than normal interest in hiring this year in light of the health crisis?

I wouldn’t characterise hiring by any sector as greater than normal. But sectors such as BFSI, Audit / Advisory & Tax, Edu-Tech have shown the same appetite to hire as in previous years.

2020 is a year of new experiences. What advice do you have for students on preparing for virtual recruitment?

Let me first talk about the priorities. If I were a student I would:

• Try to get an offer and start working ✔️. Having an offer in hand is a morale booster, given the fact that this year is unusual
• look at the profile on offer. If it fits in my area of interest then I would apply ✔️
• look less ✔️ at the brand of the employer and the CTC for the time being
• seriously prepare ✔️ for every opportunity to clinch an offer and not miss any preparatory sessions conducted by the institute
• participate actively ✔️ during the pre-placement session of a recruiter
• keep practising diligently ✔️ for aptitude tests

How to handle the virtual recruitment process?