Good First Impressions

by admin on March 23, 2018 in Ask a Recruiter, Employment, News, Services & Outsourcing

 

Although there is plenty to prep for when going in for the big job interview, like the tough questions they will ask about your history, the pop quiz about company history, and those designed to tease out your compatibility with corporate culture. But you must also remember how important it is to make a positive and memorable, first impression. Katy Douthwaithe Wolf from The Muse offers her impressions, and here you can find the top 3.

  1. Show Up on Time

You’ve heard it a million times: “If you’re early, you’re on time; if you’re on time, you’re late.” Being punctual should be a given—especially when your dream job is on the line. But no matter how many times you’ve heard it, it’s worth mentioning again: Show up on time. Running late? Call as soon as possible to let your interviewers know. They’ll appreciate it much more than if you offer up a lame excuse after they’ve already been waiting for 30 minutes.

  1. Dress the Part

Your appearance probably won’t be the basis of the interviewer’s final decision—but it can certainly play a part in how you’re first perceived. When you show up in a neatly pressed suit and scuff-less shoes with a portfolio in tow, you’ll come across as professional and well put-together. If, on the other hand, you’re dressed down a few notches more casual than everyone else in the office, juggling your briefcase, purse, umbrella, and a stack of resumes, you’re probably not going to exude the same sense of professionalism.

  1. Bring Only the Essentials

A jolt of caffeine may be necessary for you to get pumped up for your impending meeting, but don’t bring your paper cup inside the office to finish off the last few sips. Sure, it doesn’t seem like a huge deal (who doesn’t drink coffee in the workplace?)—but you probably don’t want your first interaction with your potential employer (or even the receptionist) to be anything along the lines of, “Hey, you got a trash can back there?” The same goes for other non-essentials, like the granola bar you’re polishing off or the gum you forgot to spit out. They may not be the kiss of death—but they’re not going to put you in the most favorable light.

Carry these tips along to your next interview and you will have most of the work done for you. Remember, you can control the impression you give so always give it your best shot. Deep breath, relax and ace your interview.