The job sector is a competitive market so it is vital for you to be able to stand out from the crowd. Some job openings will have a large number of applicants so you need to make yourself memorable. Standard doesn’t cut the mustard in a professional environment; you want to be noticed and remembered, but for all the right reasons! When the employer is reviewing the interviews at the end of the day, they will remember the really bad interviews, but for the wrong reasons. Here are some tips for making a stellar first impression at a job interview.
Look The Part
The immediate impression you give will be when they first look at you and your appearance. They can’t exactly give you a job based on this. It is important to remember, though, that the interviewer will have already made some decisions about you, just from looking at you. You don’t want those to be negative and have the interviewer start off with a negative mindset.
Quite often, you will be guided to the dress code for the interview during the recruitment process. If you haven’t been, just presume you should look smart. You can never be overdressed; it will most likely work in your favor. You can be underdressed, though. Think about a suit and smart, polished shoes. Perhaps even treat yourself to a trip to the tailors beforehand. You may need the suit or dress suit for the job if your interview is a success anyhow.
Body Language
You can tell a lot about a person from their handshake. You don’t want it to be lame and limp. Offer a firm handshake to the interviewer, being sure to make eye contact. This should be continued throughout the interview, as well as speaking clearly and using good manners. A lot of people, through nerves, freeze up during an interview process. Be yourself and realize that the interviewer is an actual person with a personality too. Make a little conversation and ask about them. It will make the world of difference for making a good impression.
When you sit, sit as naturally as possible. If you feel uncomfortable, you will look uncomfortable. This won’t look positive to the employer. Try to relax as much as possible, but don’t slouch in the chair. Avoid sitting on your hands or crossing your arms. These both show negative body language and will have your interviewer on guard. Showing you hands and expressing things with your hands is positive body language and shows honesty.
What should you avoid? You want to avoid being negative about the job or life in general. Avoid talking about personal problems. People can become open during an interview when they don’t need to! You shouldn’t ask about the benefits of the company during an interview. This will give the employer the impression that you aren’t interested in the actual role that you will be doing. Ask questions relating to the advertised post and look up a little information about the company. A little homework before an interview pays off.
Oh yes… and always, always be on time.
Photo by Marek Prygiel
Mia Guerra
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