[ad_1]
Job interviews can be intimidating. Before you even open your mouth and say your first words, the interviewer has already formed a first impression of you. This first impression is visual, and it is instantaneous. The interviewer has noted your overall appearance, including how you are dressed, the way you carry yourself, your facial expression, and your grooming. Is this a lot to size up in an instant? Of course, but we are visual creatures. We all make these instant judgments when we meet others, whether we are conscious of them or not.
Before your next job interview, take a few minutes to prepare, both physically and mentally. When you appear confidant and relaxed, you’ll be much more likely to land the job you want. Here are a few tips to help you present a polished, professional image.
1. Remember that your physical appearance is your visual resume. Interviewers form an impression of you before you have a chance to say anything. Make sure you are appropriately dressed and impeccably groomed.
2. Be prepared so you don’t have to search for things under pressure. Have your resume and business cards ready, and a pen and notebook handy for taking notes.
3. Plan to arrive about 10 minutes before the interview. If you arrive too early the interviewer may feel rushed. Needless to say, never be late for a job interview. Find out exactly where the office is located, so you allow time to get upstairs if your appointment is on the 30th floor of an office tower. If you are taking public transportation, allow enough time for unexpected delays. Giving yourself this extra window of time will allow you to arrive fresh, rather than feeling stressed and worried about being late.
4. When you meet the interviewer, smile, make eye contact, say your name and shake hands. Making eye contact doesn’t mean staring into the interviewer’s eyes, but it does mean focusing attention on the person you are speaking to. Don’t let your eyes wander all over the room, or attempt to read the files on the interviewer’s desk.
5. Pay attention to your body language. We are often anxious before meeting a potential employer, and our faces may show it. Take a deep breath, try to relax, and remember to smile.
6. Be careful not to take over the interviewer’s space. Keep your briefcase or purse on your lap or on the floor beside you. Don’t spread your papers over the interviewer’s desk.
7. At the conclusion of the interview shake hands again and thank the interviewer for taking the time to see you. Send a brief Thank You note the next day. It will set you above the crowd.
[ad_2]