Why Low Marks in Graduation or in your academics? This Interview Question is an essential question if you have scored low at any time in your academic life.
It’s certainly important, to be honest about your scores, but remember that while you may have to discuss some negative aspects of your career history during a job interview, you should always highlight accomplishments alongside it as well.
We probably all have at least one class or semester that just didn’t go so well. In some cases that may be a mere blip in your academic performance and for others, it can be an all-out bomb.
But this does not have to be “the end.” There are several ways to recover and come across as the strongest candidate you can be, even securing the role. Pleasing the interviewer is essential for ‘passing’ a job interview but the challenge is not knowing what’s going to please the interviewer, who is a human first and an assessor next. There is no one answer to the above question that’s going to please all the interviewers.
Confidence:
Don’t let an objection shake your confidence. If you were not considered to be a serious contender, you would not be sitting in the interview seat.
Interviewers often hit you with one or more tough questions or challenge you with statements to see how you react. They want to know if you will be crushed by the pressure or if you will mount an argument to show that you deserve the position.
Optimism:
When you try to displace the fault you not only come across as someone who complains (and may even be seen as whiney), but you also never know when you may inadvertently insult someone. Pointing fingers just doesn’t create a good impression.
Pre-plan:
Winners always have a primary plan and the contingency plan when the inevitable happens. Make a plan in advance to overcome that weakness. It is foolish to ignore your weaknesses. Have a game plan for handling any objections, challenges, or tough questions thrown at you.
Honesty:
Simply state what happened without a lot of details or over explanations and then focus on how you learned from the experience, particularly if it allows you to focus on more recent positive events. Keep it simple, straightforward, don’t dwell, and move on to the next topic.
Acceptance and valid reasoning:
You will need to share a valid reason or reasons for your grades. Another factor worth mentioning is how your time was divided. Were you juggling campus activities, tutoring other students, community service, or a work-study program? Were you on a sports team, dance group, or orchestra? Do not allow a single issue or question to knock you down. Evaluate yourself and prepare a case for why you are the strongest candidate. Present a portrait of your whole self and the value you offer the hiring company. Play to your strengths and make sure you are prepared to answer challenging questions with grace.
Remember that interviewers are people too, who have made their own mistakes in life and are usually willing to overlook your own provided you have the right approach. It’s important to be comfortable in your own skin. If you are upfront and honest when asked a question without coming across as defensive you will project a self-assurance that will put recruiters at ease.
