How First Impression Affects Your Hireability

Before you can actually introduce yourself, the assessment had already begun when you step in the office. Several eyes are watching you, looking at you from head to toe and checking whether you are fit for the position or the company. As others would say, it only takes 30 seconds for you to build your image and increase your chances of getting hired. 

The way you present yourself during the interview will give your interviewer a picture of what it looks like working with you. The interviewers or evaluators are already factoring in or computing the success rate, risks and resources allotted in hiring you. And if you make a wrong move during the first meeting, it will be hard for you to change that impression already. Furthermore, you might not be given a chance to defend or explain yourself.

How do you make a good first impression that lasts? 

Be prepared

Preparation helps you a lot in making a good first impression. Research about the company’s products or services and the position you’re applying for so that you can formulate substantial answers during the interview. Practice with someone or with a mirror to see your facial expression and mannerisms. Print an extra copy of your resume, bring your portfolio and compile your school documents just in case they ask for it. Make sure also that all your papers are organized and properly arranged so you can easily pull them when the need arises. 

Be properly dressed

It’s better to know the dress code of the company to avoid being overdressed or underdressed. You can also reach out to them to inquire. Make sure to not leave any crease, stains or wrinkles on your clothes for a neater look. Proper grooming also completes your overall appearance so comb your hair neatly, clean your nails, and use deodorant.

Be on time

Being on time is a way of showing respect and commitment. It also gives you enough allowance for any unforeseen events that you may encounter. If you have prepared well by computing your travel time and finding all possible routes, you will be at the venue on the agreed time. However, if you are going to be late, you need to inform the interviewer to avoid looking rude or disrespectful. 

Be enthusiastic

Interviewers might look intimidating but you still have to show you are the right person for this job. If you are nervous, it would show through your creaking voice, sweaty palms or shaking body. If you are slouching, that could mean you’re bored or uninterested. Keep your phone away from you as it may make you appear that you have a different priority. Show your enthusiasm by focusing your attention on the interviewer and looking at their eyes during the interview. Showing excitement during the interview will also give you a better edge against other applicants as it would make the employer believe you will take the job with all your heart. 

Be yourself

While making good first impression is about putting yourself in a good spot, you also need to avoid pretending to be someone that you are not. If you get the job right now because you lied, it would cause more harm to you in the long run. Always remember that your character is still more important than skills. 

Online interviews

Nowadays, online interviews are already accepted as an alternative way to do interviews. Although online interview might appear as less intense or intimidating than the traditional or face-to-face interview, first impression still makes its way to the interviewer. Before you head to the interview, make sure to prepare for it also. 

Here are the steps that you can take.

1. Check your background if it is conducive for interview. Choosing a place is similar to letting the interviewer have a sneak peak of your personality, so look for a place that is visually appealing, neat and organized. Additionally, having a messy background steers away the interviewer’s focus on you. 
2. Dress appropriately. Even though the interviewer cannot see you from head to toe, you still need to look professional. If possible, dress completely just in case they ask you to stand or you need to move around. 
3. Make sure your internet and equipment work properly. Getting your message across would be hard if your internet keeps getting cut because important words might get omitted. Lastly, technical errors can also delay the process and waste both of your time. 
4. Block any distraction that can make you lose your trail of thoughts and interrupt the interview. Close all social media accounts to prevent notification from popping or making a sound. If you have pets or kids, make sure that they cannot run around while you are in the interview. 

Keep in mind that you are not alone in competing for that dream job so you need to stand out. You might have the skills, good credentials but making a good impression will increase your score in getting hired.