First Impressions in Job Interviews, Part 2

In the first part of this blog I wrote about how to make the right first impression in an interview by dressing and presenting yourself in a professional manner. In the 2nd part, you will read about some additional tips that will help you make the right first impression.

When you receive a call for an interview and you are close to your computer (or are returning their message), try and get the company’s address off their website. Personally, when I call a candidate to schedule an interview and they already have the company’s address before I give it to them, it is impressive and shows initiative. I remember once when I received an interview call and I already had the company’s address, the Manager stated that he was impressed by my initiative and nobody else had taken the steps to do that. It’s a small step but definitely makes a good impression! Don’t ask them for directions unless you really have to! That’s what google, yahoo and mapquest are for! Just be sure to actually confirm the address you have while you’re on the phone so you are in fact going to the right place!

Make sure you take a copy of your resume to the interview. In my experience, almost 75% of the candidates interviewed do not bring an extra copy of their resume - most are students or new graduates. By taking a copy of your resume, you are showing that you are eager and prepared for the job interview. Managers are often pressed for time and if there is another Manager or Team Leader sitting in on the interview, your extra resume means that the Manager is not running around making copies for the others. Believe me, the Manager will appreciate it and you may not know it, but you are making a positive first impression with this small step! Go one step further and ask the interviewer if they would like a copy of your resume. Most often the interviewer will already have a copy but the fact that you asked is making a good impression.

Now that you have printed extra copies of your resume, be sure to carry some sort of portfolio (like one of those black zipper binders!). Not only does it tie in nicely with your well clad appearance but the binder can also hold a small notebook where you can take some notes during the interview. Do not carry the resume in your hand, fold it and stuff it in a pocket or carry a manila envelope!! Definitely not professional!!

When the interviewer comes out to greet you, make sure you shake hands and make sure your hands are not sweaty! While the interviewer leads you to the interview room, try and make small talk. For example, mention something about the building, ask how many floors the company occupies and if nothing else, talk about the weather. Small talk will help break the ice and beats a long awkward elevator ride in complete silence!

It’s okay to be nervous in an interview but this is the time to let out the actor in you! Make eye contact and pretend to be confident even if you are nervous! Remember, the more nervous you come across in an interview, the more chances that you will not get the job. Ask yourself - what’s the worse that can happen? There are only two options – you either get the job or you don’t. You will be more confident if you are well prepared and have practiced your interview skills. Visit the interview prep section if you need some interview help!

During the interview, it is very important that you maintain eye contact and look interested! You’re not about to land the job if you look bored and keep looking around the room. I remember a few instances when interviewing in an office with glass walls, the candidate would keep looking out at the people walking by. Needless to say, it got on my nerves and of course they didn’t get the job!

Don’t be fidgety or restless. Some people tend to shake their legs or move their feet when nervous and when sitting behind a table or desk, it looks like you’re entire body is moving. Not only is it distracting but it also implies that the person is nervous and restless. Try folding your hands and resting them on your lap or put your binder across your lap if you have restless leg syndrome!

Last but not least, don’t continuously look at your watch and turn off your cell phone before the interview!

It’s often the little things that make a difference and if you follow the tips outlined, I’m sure you’ll make a great first impression! Good Luck!

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