As the saying goes, ‘you shouldn’t judge a book by its cover’, but as we all know, not everybody abides by this motto. First impressions are very important and frequently leave a lasting imprint and that’s no secret, especially in the world of business. Often a Hiring Manager forms an opinion on a Candidate in a matter of minutes, so before you enter your next interview, think about the following to ensure you start off on the right foot and improve your chances of being invited back or receiving an offer:

First Impressions

• If you don’t arrive early, you’re late!
• Allow plenty of time for parking and signing in at reception etc.
• Remember to turn off your mobile phone.
• Try and make a positive impression with the receptionist.
• Aim to arrive at least 15 minutes before your interview time. This will allow you time to relax rather than rushing and will make a good impression with the prospective Employer.
• Greet the interviewer with a firm handshake, a positive smile and good eye contact.
• Don’t worry! It’s easy to be your own worst enemy by clamming up and being nervous. Remember, you’re talking about something you’re an expert on, YOU.
• Be yourself, talk confidently about your experience and skills and enjoy the interview.

 Dress to Impress

You don’t get a second chance to make a first impression. If you look the part, there is an initial assumption you can do the job.

• Dress professionally – A dark business suit works well, with a co-ordinating shirt and tie for men and a shirt or formal top for women – Talk to your Blayze Unguem Consultant who will guide you on the style of attire in the Business who’s interviewing you.
• Keep jewellery to an absolute minimum. Ideally just a wedding ring and watch.
• Do not chew gum during the interview or whilst waiting.
• Do not smoke before the interview. You want the interviewer to be bowled over with how smart you are, not overpowered with the smell of cigarettes.

Body Language

• Always offer a firm handshake both at the start and the end of the interview.
• Maintain good eye contact at all times.
• Do not slouch, fidget or look out of the window.
• Don’t bite your nails or put your hands in front of your mouth when talking.

Personality & Attitude

Your personality and attitude are crucial. In situations where all Candidates are capable of doing the job, these points are what make the difference between you and the others. You are seeking to convey the right mix of professionalism and personality. Therefore, your approach must be:

• Polite and Professional.
• Confident.
• Lively.
• Interested – in this job, not just any job.
• Enthusiastic.

The value of enthusiasm cannot be over-emphasised, it’s infectious, so if you want to be remembered as a Candidate that the interviewer actually wants to employ, inject some enthusiasm into the way to interact & ‘perform’. You will be amazed at how the interviewer will warm to you, and how much better you will come across.

Undeniably these tips will not single-handedly secure you the role, you need to back up your first impressions with a strong performance in the interview too. Going the extra mile and impressing the interviewer from the second you walk through the door, however, could be the small factor that puts you ahead of the crowd and obtains you your dream role.

For further tips, see The Blayze Unguem Guide to Interview Success