Applying for jobs can be a very daunting and frustrating experience. The application process usually takes time and when it is finally time for a face-to-face interview you want to really impress your interviewer. More than likely, the first impression is going to be what the interviewer remembers and it could also be a large part of a hiring decision.
When does the first impression actually start? It isn’t when you meet your interviewer; it happens as soon as you walk into the office/facility for your interview. When you are greeted, that individual is forming their opinion of you. If you are rude or disrespectful to this individual your interviewer WILL know about it before you meet them. While you are waiting that same individual is still watching and evaluating everything you do. That means if you are talking on the phone, they can hear everything you say! With these things in consideration, as soon as you walk into that office you should be in interview mode, greeting and treating every individual as if it is your interviewer.
The first impression isn’t just based on how you act. A big portion of the first impression is made by how you present yourself. That includes your hygiene and the clothes you are wearing. While preparing for your interview you should think about the position you are applying for and dress appropriately. You never want to walk in an interview in sweatpants, dirty jeans or a nasty t-shirt. Dressing nice demonstrates that you care about details and you will be detail-oriented in your work as well. To get more tips on what not to wear see what Business Insider says about the subject.
Once you know what you are going to wear it is then important to clean yourself up. Personal hygiene is very important when you present for an interview. Not only do you need to be put together but you need to be clean as well. For example, take the time to brush your hair. Also, make sure your nails are presentable. For females, be sure they are either freshly painted with a neutral color or clean with no polish on them. For the males, simply cut your nails and clean under them. The small things show your interviewer that you are taking this interview seriously and you want to work for their company.
Once you have completed the interview, your opportunity for lasting “first impressions” is not over. Each time you call into the office you are making an impression on the individual you are talking to. Be respectful and considerate whenever trying to get in touch with your interviewer. If you call and they do not answer or you are put in their voicemail box, you should leave a message that clearly states: your name, the reason for your call and a return number. There is no need to call more than one time in a day if you have left a message. The interviewer will return your call when they have an adequate answer to give you.
First impressions can make or break your chance at getting a job. Take the time before every interview and prepare yourself to better your chances at getting the job. By looking and feeling your personal best, you will represent yourself to your fullest potential. So throw on your nicest outfit, relax, and knock their socks off!
