Making A Great Impression At Interview
As the old saying goes “you never get a second chance to make a great first impression.” This is especially true when it comes to job interviews. You will be competing with other candidates and you need to create a positive lasting impression in the minds of your interviewer. Below are some useful tips to help you leave a great first impression and get the job you want.
Dress to Impress
One of the biggest mistakes candidates make is dressing inappropriately for the interviews. You should dress to create an impression you are serious about the job opportunity. Men should wear a suit and tie, and women should wear a blouse and skirt, or pants which projects a professional image. Also, candidates should avoid flashy jewelry, plunging necklines, t-shirts, and shoes that are too casual. Perfumes and cologne should also be kept to a minimum.
Handshake
A good handshake is highly critical and should be:
- Firm
- Dry
- Good eye contact during handshake
- Accompanied with a smile
- Last for 2 to 3 seconds
- A sincere greeting and verbal introduction to go along with it
Avoid Filler Words
Some candidates might use filler words to fill gaps and pause during interviews. These include “um”, “ahh”, “so”, “like”, “you know”, etc. When used often, filler words will reduce your credibility as a speaker and hurt your chance at job interviews.
When faced with a difficult question at interview, stay calm and reply in a natural manner “That’s a very interesting question” while taking a few brief moments to think through, before launching into your answer.
Maintain a Good Posture
A good posture displays confidence. When you enter the premise for interview, whether you are walking, sitting or standing, make sure you maintain a straight back posture, which is the most professional and best looking pose for candidates. Do not slough as it will convey you are sloppy and do not really care about the job opportunity.
Body Language
Your body language gives off important signals about what kind of employee you would be. You have to be constantly aware of the non-verbal cues your body is projecting to the interviewer.
Project sincerity and confidence by leaning forward at times. Using expressive but natural gestures and constantly maintain eye contact. Do not lean back or look down as this may be interpreted as a lack of confidence and competence required for the role.
Be Enthusiastic
Show your enthusiasm by asking well-thought questions. Be genuinely interested in wanting to know the challenges the job will entail and how that might fit into your career goals. Seize the opportunity to explain why you want the job and the reasons you would be a perfect candidate for it.