You have already passed the exam, been shortlisted and contacted by the human resources department. The only stumbling block that stands in the way of you being hired – the job interview. It is very important to make a good first impression. However, a minor hiccup before or during the interview can result in a major disappointment and cost you your dream job. To avoid this scenario, here are helpful tips to make a good first impression at a job interview.
Do your research
Do yourself a favour and brush up on everything you need to know about the position for which you’re applying, the company and even the employee interviewing you for the job. If you do your homework beforehand, it’ll be easier for you to draw similarities during the interview of why you’re the ideal candidate for the position based on previous experience.
Dress the part
Your appearance probably won’t be the basis of the interviewer’s final decision—but it can certainly play a part in how you’re first perceived. When you show up in a neatly pressed suit and scuff-less shoes with a portfolio in tow, you’ll come across as professional and well put-together. If, on the other hand, you’re dressed down a few notches more casual than everyone else in the office, juggling your purse, umbrella, and a stack of CVs, you’re probably not going to exude the same sense of professionalism.
Be pleasant to everyone
Sure, chances are the college intern at the front desk probably isn’t the one making the hiring decisions in the office but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t treat her with the same amount of respect and pleasantries that you would the CEO. Aside from your qualifications and personal references, employers are also interviewing you to see how well you would fit in at the office and if you would work well with the other members of their team. The last thing you need after charming their socks off in the interview is for the receptionist to mention that you were rude when she checked you in or made it hard for her to focus on her job because you were on a loud personal call in front of her.
Show interest and enthusiasm.
To create a good impression, show that you’re interested and enthusiastic about the job. Be positive about the whole thing and enjoy the experience. Smile, be alert in processing questions the interviewer is asking, and be definitive in giving your answers. Prepare by researching about the company and practicing how to respond to common job interview questions. Convince the interviewer that you are the right person for the job. Highlight your accomplishments while working in your previous job. If you are a fresh graduate, emphasize your achievements as a student, both in academics and extracurricular activities.
With so many to choose from, employers can be choosy when they hire. These tips on how to make a good first impression at a job interview cannot guarantee that you will get the job, but they can definitely get you a little closer. First impressions can shape perceptions of professional competence. Those who perform well during this stage will gain the upper hand over the competition. This is probably your best opportunity to land a job, so give it all you’ve got. Good luck!
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