Preparing for placements is an exciting yet challenging phase for every student, and at IILM Lucknow, this journey is taken very seriously. With reputed organisations coming to the campus each year offering promising roles, the competition is fierce, and preparation becomes crucial.
Whether you are just starting your placement preparations or looking to refine your approach, this detailed guide will help you step ahead with confidence.
5 Tips for IILM Lucknow Students to Prepare for Placements
1. Build a Strong and Professional Resume
Your resume is your marketing document — it tells your story even before you get the chance to meet the recruiter in person.
At IILM Lucknow, you are provided with plenty of opportunities to develop your academic and extracurricular profiles, and your resume should reflect that richness.
Focus on the following when building your resume:
- Structure: Maintain a clean, simple format. Avoid flashy designs unless you’re applying for a creative role.
- Highlight Achievements: Instead of simply listing responsibilities, highlight accomplishments. For example, instead of writing “Member of cultural committee”, you could write “Organised 5 cultural events leading to a 20% increase in student participation.”
- Tailor for Each Role: Slightly tweak your resume according to the job role you are applying for. Emphasise the skills and experiences most relevant to that particular role.
Pro Tip: Attend the resume workshops conducted by the IILM Lucknow placement team and take feedback seriously. A well-structured, impactful resume can make the difference between getting shortlisted or getting overlooked.
2. Focus on Building Core and Soft Skills Simultaneously
Recruiters today are looking for a perfect blend of technical competence and people skills. While your academic knowledge lays the foundation, practical skills and emotional intelligence often tip the scales during hiring.
Some important areas you should focus on include:
- Technical Skills: Depending on your specialisation, master tools and concepts like MS Excel, Financial Modelling, Marketing Analytics, Coding Languages, Business Analytics, etc.
- Soft Skills: Communication, presentation, leadership, negotiation, critical thinking, and teamwork skills are vital. These skills show how well you can work within a team, handle conflicts, and lead projects.
How IILM Lucknow Helps:
The institution regularly organises workshops, seminars, guest lectures, and case study competitions. Make the most of these activities — they are practical grounds for enhancing your skill set outside the classroom.
Pro Tip: Certifications (like Digital Marketing, Financial Analysis, Project Management) can add extra weight to your resume and make you stand out.
Also read: The Importance of Soft Skills in PGDM/MBA Programs and How to Develop Them
3. Master the Art of Mock Interviews and Group Discussions (GDs)
The ability to perform under pressure is what differentiates top candidates from the rest.
At IILM Lucknow, mock interviews and GD sessions are an essential part of the placement preparation strategy, and it’s wise to participate in as many as you can.
Here’s how mock sessions help you:
- Identify Strengths and Weaknesses: Understand the areas you excel at and the areas needing improvement.
- Boost Confidence: Practice helps reduce nervousness and boosts your confidence for the real situation.
- Sharpen Your Thought Process: Group Discussions test not only your speaking skills but also your ability to listen, analyse, and respond smartly within a limited time.
Important Areas to Practise:
- Personal Introduction (the classic “Tell me about yourself”)
- Why this company and why this role?
- Industry and economic trends
- Situational and behavioural questions
- Problem-solving case studies
Pro Tip: Record your mock interviews, watch them critically, and note your body language, tone, and content quality.
4. Research Companies Thoroughly Before Interviews
Preparation is not just about knowing yourself but also knowing the company inside-out.
When you sit for interviews, recruiters appreciate candidates who are genuinely interested in their organisation and have done their homework.
Before appearing for an interview, research:
- The company’s mission, values, and work culture
- Key products, services, and recent innovations
- Industry standing and major competitors
- Recent news, awards, or developments related to the company
How it Helps:
When you link your answers to the company’s culture or express enthusiasm about one of their latest projects, it leaves a strong, positive impression.
Pro Tip: Prepare a few thoughtful questions to ask the interviewer about the company or the role. It shows curiosity, seriousness, and professionalism.
5. Network with Alumni and Industry Professionals
One of the best resources available to IILM Lucknow students is the strong network of alumni who have already walked the path you are about to embark on.
Here’s how networking can benefit you:
- Real Insights: Get practical tips on how to prepare for specific companies.
- Referrals: Alumni can sometimes refer you for openings in their organisations.
- Career Guidance: You can seek mentorship, learn about industry expectations, and understand the career paths available in different sectors.
How to Start Networking:
- Attend alumni meet-ups and webinars organised by IILM Lucknow.
- Connect on LinkedIn professionally. Personalise your connection request, mentioning your college and your interest in learning from their experience.
- Join professional groups related to your field of interest.
Pro Tip: Build genuine relationships instead of asking for favours immediately. Networking is a long-term investment in your career.
Final Thoughts
The placement season is an important step toward launching your professional journey. At IILM Lucknow, you already have access to excellent academic training, placement support, and networking opportunities — all you need to do is leverage them smartly.
Start early, stay consistent, and maintain a positive mindset. Whether it’s refining your resume, developing key skills, excelling in interviews, researching companies, or networking with alumni, every small step you take now will lead to big opportunities in the future.
Remember, your goal is not just to land any job, but to find a role that aligns with your passion, skills, and long-term career aspirations. Stay committed, keep learning, and success will surely follow!
Wishing all IILM Lucknow students the very best for the upcoming placements!