When you’re preparing for an interview, your concentration is probably on the questions that they may ask you, through answers you’ll give, and the professional, yet slightly humorous anecdotes you’ll tell. As a whole, that’s what the majority of the interview is about—and what will (with any luck) get you a fast pass to getting the job.
However, before you even get the chance to supply those immaculately thought-out answers, you’ll already have all eyes on you, estimating your potential to fit the job and the company. From the minute you walk in the door, the pressure is on: You have to make a worthy first impression.
Before you head into your next interview, take a look at these six tips to make sure you’re presenting yourself in the best possible light and setting yourself up for the most successful interview you’ve had yet.
- Show Up on Time
You’ve heard it millions of times!! Punctuality is key— specifically when your dream job is on the line. But no matter how many times you’ve heard it, it’s never been heard too much: Show up on time.
And if you are running late, call as soon as you can 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 20 minutes.
- Be Nice to the Receptionist
The person at the front desk might not be the hiring manager—but that doesn’t mean their impression on you doesn’t matter. Honestly, some companies specifically ask their receptionist to report back on the behaviour of interviewees who come through the door. And that likely plays a role in the final decision—so it’s imperative to treat that person as well as you’ll treat your interviewer.
- Put Your Phone Away
It’s a natural to simply pull out your smartphone any time you have to wait; in line at the shops, during television adverts, while you wait for the vending machine to dispense your Kit Kat—you get the image.
But if you’re waiting in the reception area, don’t automatically rely on your phone to keep you amused. Instead, take that time to check over your C.V, think through what you want to deliver during your interview. Then, when your interviewer makes his or her entrance, you won’t be caught off guard, shutting down Snapchat and ramming your phone back into your bag or pocket.
- Have Everything Neat, Organized, and Accessible
You can be confident that, within the first minutes of your interview, your interviewer will ask for a copy of your updated C.V. But if you have to search through your bag past chocolate wrappers, phone chargers, and old receipts, you’re going to look way too unorganized.
To make the best first impression, everything you need should be neatly prepared and easily accessible: You should be able to pull out your C.V, references, and even a pen (one that’s in good condition) on command. The less you have to rummage through your bag, the better.
- Make the First Move
When you’re a visitor at your possible employer’s office, you probably suppose that they’ll make the first move when it comes to introductions. And while that may end up being true, don’t be frightened to start the handshake before them. With just that minor gesture, you’re conveying that you’re enthusiastic to be there, ready to jump into your interview, assertive, and self-confident.
These tips alone may not attain you the job—but they can unquestionably get you a little closer. When you start your interview out on the right foot, you’ll be able to face the difficult, testing questions with certainty. And that could be your key to your new job.
- Dress the Part
Your appearance undoubtedly won’t be the basis of the interviewer’s final decision—but it can definitely play a huge part on their perception of you. When you show up in a neatly ironed outfit and scuff-less shoes, you’ll come across as professional and organized. If, on the other hand, you’re dressed down a few levels (way more casual than everyone else in the office), juggling your bag, purse, umbrella, and a stack of paperwork, you’re probably not going to emanate the same sense of professionalism. For the men without a wardrobe to impress, Standout offers a selection of designer shirts. Get yours now to be ready to impress and be a step closer to your dream job!!
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