Want a job in IT company? Check out what you need to have

BANGALORE, INDIA: The prevailing grim global outlook notwithstanding, this is the time of the year fresh engineering graduates start looking for jobs. Even more so now, because most of the IT organizations in the country that traditionally visit college campuses by November-December, have gone slow on their drives.

In fact, some have even gone to the extent of postponing on-boarding of 2012 recruits by more than a year, with or without proper prior notice, which bears testimony to the testing times for fresh job seekers. Still, they need not lose hope, as many off-campus drives and walk-in interviews are still happening all around.

So, what it takes to bag a job from one of the top IT companies - like TCS, HCL, Cognizant, Infosys and Wipro - in the country? An impressive academic record, aptitude and smart attitude matter a lot, says Kris Lakshmikanth, chief executive officer of Head Hunters India, a renowned placement consultancy.

"To start with, most of the top companies have an aptitude/IQ test with a statistically arrived at cut-off point across India. Depending on the number of fresh talent they are looking to recruit, they filter out candidates in this round," he explains.

What comes next is academic performance, which Lakshmikanth says, holds the highest weightage, especially that of the graduation. "Some companies like TCS, even mandate a first class in Plus Two/PU final examinations. If one is from premier institutes like the IITs, NITs or RECs, it naturally favors the candidate," he says, adding, "But when you are in college, without any hands-on work experience, there is no way to judge your abilities."

The final stage that seals the future of a candidate is a personal interview, normally by a panel comprising a technical person and a HR executive. "Here, communication skills and smart appearance play a crucial role. Many may not have extensive knowledge of all latest programming languages and database tools, but a pleasant personality can make a difference," concludes Lakshmikanth.

Are you prepared to face your prospective employer yet?