In today’s article, we’re going to talk about something especially designed for female defence aspirants — the Do’s and Don’ts when it comes to Grooming, Dressing, Body Language, and Answering style in the Personal Interview round of the SSB Interview.
Whether you’re going for NDA, CDS, NCC, JAG, AFCAT, or Army Medical Corps — this guide will help you make the best impression on your Interviewing Officer (IO).
GROOMING DO’s & DON’Ts
✅ DO’s:
- Keep your hairstyle neat and manageable
- Tie your hair in a low bun or ponytail – use plain black/brown hair ties.
- Avoid fancy clips or open hair.
- Minimal Makeup is Acceptable
- Use a light foundation or compact, mild kajal, and lip balm/nude lipstick.
- Keep it professional, not party-ready.
- Personal Hygiene
- Nails should be clean and trimmed – avoid bright nail paints.
- Mild deodorant/perfume is fine – avoid strong scents.
- Eyewear (if needed)
- Go for plain black or brown frames – no decorative glasses.
❌ DON’Ts:
- No flashy earrings, heavy makeup, or glitter.
- Avoid coloured hair streaks or dramatic nail art.
- Don’t wear overwhelming perfume.
Your grooming should say “I am confident, not seeking attention.”
DRESSING DO’s & DON’Ts
✅ DO’s:
- Formal Wear is a Must
- For interview: White shirt + Black/Blue trousers or salwar suit (with dupatta neatly pinned).
- Wear well-polished black shoes or formal sandals.
- Simple Accessories
- A wristwatch and small studs are acceptable.
- Neatly Ironed Clothes
- No wrinkles or stains – keep a tidy and crisp look.
- Avoid Transparent or Tight-Fit Clothing
- Choose modest and formal cuts.
❌ DON’Ts:
- No jeans, leggings, or short tops.
- Avoid loud colors, heavy jewellery, high heels.
- No logos or brand bling on clothes.
Your dressing must reflect discipline and dignity, not casual fashion.
BODY LANGUAGE DO’s & DON’Ts
✅ DO’s:
- Walk Confidently
- Shoulders straight, chin up, moderate pace.
- Sit Straight with Composure
- Keep hands folded on your lap or resting naturally.
- Smile Gently
- A polite smile shows approachability and calmness.
- Make Eye Contact
- Maintain good eye contact with the IO – it reflects confidence.
- Firm but Gentle Voice
- Speak clearly, don’t rush.
❌ DON’Ts:
- Don’t play with your hair, fidget, or shake legs.
- Don’t look at the ceiling or avoid eye contact.
- Avoid slouching or sitting too stiffly like a robot.
- Don’t interrupt the officer mid-question.
Your body language should convey grace, clarity, and readiness to take responsibility.
ANSWERING STYLE DO’s & DON’Ts
✅ DO’s:
- Be Honest & Direct
- If you don’t know the answer, say “I’m not sure, Sir/Ma’am, but I’d love to learn.”
- Structure Your Answers
- Use the Intro → Main Point → Conclusion style.
- Back Your Answers with Examples
- Whether it’s leadership, teamwork, or failure – give real-life experiences.
- Use Gender-Neutral & Respectful Language
- Avoid slang or over-casual tone.
- Know Your PIQ Thoroughly
- Every answer must match your Personal Information Questionnaire.
❌ DON’Ts:
- Don’t memorise answers – be natural.
- Don’t speak too fast or too softly.
- Don’t try to “please” the officer with sugar-coated responses.
- Don’t give excuses for failures – own your story with grace.
Your answers should showcase clarity of thought, honesty, and Officer-Like Qualities (OLQs).
WHAT FEMALE CANDIDATES OFTEN ASK
Q: Will I be judged differently as a female candidate?
🔹 No. Standards remain the same, but you are expected to show emotional resilience, logic, and leadership—just like male candidates.
Q: Can I talk about emotional experiences or family?
🔹 Yes, if relevant. But keep the tone balanced, not overly emotional.
Q: Should I speak about challenges as a woman?
🔹 Yes, if it relates to your growth. But focus on how you overcame them, not on victimhood.
CONCLUSION
So ladies, remember this:
🔹 Dress like a leader.
🔹 Sit like a soldier.
🔹 Speak like an officer.
🔹 Think like a changemaker.
SSB is not just about looking good — it’s about projecting your true personality with poise, purpose, and power.
