Making A Good First Impression In Job Interviews
Job interviews are still the most common way of selecting staff. While you might spend hours or days preparing, some say that you get as little as 30 seconds to make the right impression.
Whether this is right or wrong I don’t know. At the same time you don’t want to leave this to chance.
Like all situations where you have to present (after all an interview is just a different type of presentation), preparation is absolutely key.
So what’s your routine or process for getting ready to make a good first impression? If you are like most people you probably have never consciously thought about this.
The first thing to consider is how you get relaxed. Let’s face it you will be nervous, we all are. How do you get to a point where you can manage your nerves? Do what works for you. For me a brisk walk works best. For others some breathing exercises work.
Next consider where you need to make a good first impression. When I ask people this they often say when they meet the person who will be interviewing them. In my view it is with the first person you meet, usually a receptionist or PA. Employers often ask the view of these people when reaching decisions.
Get in the zone. This is a big challenge for you and it is a major investment decision for the employer. Be focused from the minute you open the door to the building or location where you will be interviewed.
Practice your opening. Just like a good presentation, practice makes a huge difference. Write out what you will say. Speak it out loud and make sure that you are comfortable with it. Keep tweaking and refining.
Be professional. Keep your opening light and business like. Yes it might feel slightly formal but at this stage you have no idea on the style or approach of the person interviewing you, so keep it professional.
The Bottom Line: You want to be successful in job interviews and making a good first impression makes a difference.
Duncan Brodie helps accountants and professionals achieve more career success. He invites you to check out his free audio masterclass.
About the Author Duncan Brodie
Since 2006 I’ve worked with in excess of 8,000 accountants and professionals in workshops, seminars and one to one helping them land their next jobs and become better leaders, presenters and business partners. Before that I spent 25 years in accountancy climbing the career ladder from Payments Clerk to FD. I’m a CIMA Fellow, Certified Professional Coach and Team Coach Facilitator.