Prior to an interview the majority of Candidates focus on preparing for the tough questions that are coming their way, and therefore they spend a lot of this preparation time practicing the answers that they are going to respond with. Before the Candidate can even get to impress the interviewer with their responses, the individual is likely to have already gained their first impressions of the Candidate within the first few moments of them walking through the door.

The early thoughts of an interviewer are very important and the first impressions he or she gets, can sway the way the rest of the interview proceeds, so to increase your chances of interview success, follow these tips:

First Impressions

• If you don’t arrive early, you’re late!
• Allow plenty of time for parking and signing in at reception etc.
• 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 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.
• Remember to turn off your mobile phone.
• Make a great impression with the receptionist too.

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.

• 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 − Hands.
• 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 other candidates. 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 position
• 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 your performance. You will be amazed at how the interviewer will warm to you thus how much better you will come across.

Additional Links

The Blayze Unguem Guide to Interview Success – Part 1 of 7 

The Blayze Unguem Guide to Interview Success – Part 2 of 7 – Do Your Homework 

The Blayze Unguem Guide to Interview Success – Part 3 of 7 – Preparing For the Day

For further advice and detailed interview insight, please look out for ‘The Blayze Unguem Guide to Interview Success – Part 5 of 7′, or contact one of our specialist Consultants on 0345 11 22 828, at info@blayze-unguem.com or drop us a message via our contact form and we will get back to you.