Navigating Hinglish in SSB Personal Interviews: Guidelines and Tips

When participating in a Special Selection Board (SSB) interview, the primary language is English. However, you may occasionally find yourself stuck or needing to convey a certain emotion more effectively. In such situations, using Hinglish (a mixture of English and Hindi) can be a beneficial tool. This article will explore the appropriate use of Hinglish in SSB interviews and provide guidelines on when and how to use it.

The Importance of Clear and Honest Communication

Language is a tool to facilitate clear and honest communication. It is not merely about the choice of words but also about the clarity and authenticity of the message. In formal settings like an SSB interview, English is the preferred language because it ensures that the communication is professional and unambiguous. However, sometimes, you might find yourself at a loss of words or need to express something with more emotional depth. This is where Hinglish can come in handy.

Understanding the Use of Hinglish in SSB Interviews

If your English proficiency is not at the desired level, it can be advantageous to use a mix of English and Hindi (Hinglish) to convey your thoughts more effectively. It is important, however, to use Hinglish judiciously and only when absolutely necessary. Use it sparingly and with the intention of facilitating better communication, not as a crutch.

The key is to ensure that your communication remains clear and professional. You can start with English and switch to Hindi if you are stuck. After expressing your point in Hindi, revert back to English as soon as possible to maintain the formality and structure of the conversation.

When to Use Hinglish

Hinglish should be used only when you are thoroughly stuck and there is no other way out. It is better to stick with English and use Hinglish only as a supplementary means. If you do decide to use Hinglish, ensure that you use it effectively to convey your point without compromising on the clarity of your message.

For instance, consider the following scenario: discussing your father's weaknesses.

Without Hinglish:

"Sir, my father doesn't save much. He provided us with a good life and always made efforts to give us the best. However, when it comes to savings, he believes in [ inserts cultural context related to not saving]. He went from being a child labor in a bangle factory at the age of 12 to a soldier, and he wants us to follow the same path. I am proud of him, but to me, this is a weakness in not valuing savings."

With Hinglish:

"Sir, my father doesn't save much. He provided us with a good life and always made efforts to give us the best. However, when it comes to savings, he believes in [ inserts cultural context related to not saving]. You know, in my culture, saving is considered important, but my father doesn't always follow this practice. He went from being a child labor in a bangle factory at the age of 12 to a soldier, and he wants us to follow the same path. I am proud of him, but to me, this is a weakness in not valuing savings."

In the Hinglish example, the use of Hindi (in bold) helps to emphasize the cultural context and the emotional depth of the statement.

Conclusion

While it is important to maintain professional communication and use English as the primary language in SSB interviews, certain situations may warrant the use of Hinglish. When you do use Hinglish, ensure that it is used in moderation and with the intent of enhancing your message. Remember, the goal is to communicate effectively and honestly. With careful and strategic use, Hinglish can be a powerful tool in your SSB interview preparation.