Within the first seven seconds of meeting someone, they will have a solid impression of who you are. This is why making a great first impression is vital.

TAKE A LOOK AT OUR 10 TOP TIPS ON HOW TO MAKE A GREAT FIRST IMPRESSION IN A JOB INTERVIEW TODAY!

1) DON’T BE LATE

When you have an interview, make sure you allow yourself plenty of time to get there. Being punctual is a must. Plan how to get there in advance and allow enough time for possible delays that may disrupt your journey. The last thing you want to do is turn up to an interview feeling flustered because you are running late. You should arrive 10 – 15 minutes before your interview as you don’t want to show up too early or late. However, if you are running late, make sure you let the employer know. If you are using a recruiter, let them know and they will pass on the message for you.

2) DRESS THE PART

What you wear to an interview will determine whether you get the job offer. Make sure your interview attire fits in with the job that you have applied for. If in doubt, always ask your recruiter or the employer directly on what you should wear. What you wear to an interview will leave a lasting impression, so it is important to get it right. Dress for success and show the hiring manger that you have made an effort for the job interview.

3) BE CONFIDENT

Sometimes in an interview, it is easy to let your nerves get the better of you. Remember, that the employer saw potential in you and that’s why they invited you to an interview in the first place. Be confident in your skills and potential. Show the interviewer that you have confidence in your skills and that you do have what it takes to do the job. If you believe in yourself the employer will also trust your capabilities which will take you that one step closer to landing your dream job.

4) OFFER A FIRM HANDSHAKE

When you shake hands with the manager make sure that your handshake is firm. If you have a firm handshake it shows the hiring manager that you are confident in your abilities. It can also help set the tone for the rest of the interview.

5) MAKE EYE CONTACT

Making eye contact in your interview is crucial. It not only portrays that you are a confident person, but it also gives the impression that you are really listening to what the interviewer has to say.

6) BE KIND TO THE RECEPTIONIST

When you go for an interview you will often be greeted by a receptionist. It is important to remember that their first impression of you matters too, as the hiring manager may specifically ask the person at the front desk their thoughts on you. This will play a part in their final decision, so make sure you treat them the same way as you would treat the hiring manager.

7) DO YOUR RESEARCH

Before your interview make sure you have done your research. Preparing properly for an interview not only impresses the employer but it will also help calm down your nerves as you will feel fully prepared for any questions that the employer may ask you. It will also show
your enthusiasm about the job and the organisation.

8) QUESTIONS TO PREPARE FOR

Make sure you are prepared to answer common interview questions such as:

• Why do you want to work here?
• What do you know about the company?
• What are your strengths and weaknesses?
• Why did you leave your last employer?
• Where do you see yourself in five years?

Some employers may also ask you some curveball questions such as:

• If you were an animal, what would you be?
• If you owned the company, what would you change?
• How did you land your last job?
• Why should I choose you over the other five people I am interviewing for this position?
• If you could have one superpower, what would you choose?

9) ASK QUESTIONS

Always prepare a list of questions to ask the hiring manager. Include questions that will give you an insight into the organisation and questions that will show the employer that you would love to work for their organisation.

Here are a few examples of good questions to ask in an interview:

• Can you tell me more about the day-to-day responsibilities of the job?
• What do you like best about working for this company?
• What does success look like here?
• What is the single biggest challenge facing the company/department today?
• What are the next steps in the interview process?

10) SHOW YOUR ENTHUSIASM

Make sure you let the interviewer know your enthusiasm for the role by showing that you are passionate and excited about the new opportunity. Let the employer know that the role sounds exciting and that you are looking forward to hearing more. At the end of the interview, thank the employer for their time and tell them you are looking forward to hearing about the next steps. Don’t forget to follow up the interview with a thank you note or email. Not only will this reiterate your interest in the job opportunity, but it will also show the employer that you are well-mannered.

For more tips on how to be successful in a job interview, take a look at our quick six tips on how to ace a job interview today. If you would like any help during your job search, do not hesitate to get in touch with us. We would be more than happy to help. Good luck!