Whoever first said, “you only have one chance to make a good impression” must have been a candidate preparing for a job interview.
Before a job seeker can deliver those well-thought-out answers to questions like “what is your greatest weakness,” the interviewer will be evaluating the candidate’s potential to fit the job and the company. Some HR professionals and hiring managers say they know within the first 30 seconds whether the interviewee is right for the job.
There are many steps a successful job applicant should take before, during, and after an interview. Follow these tips to impress the hiring company:
Know Before You Go
Be sure to research the organization, so you know as much as possible about it. That way, you’ll be prepared to answer questions about what you know about the company confidently and clearly. You’ll also want to research the interviewer(s) on LinkedIn or through your recruiter.
Show Up on Time
Being punctual should be a given—especially when your dream job is on the line. But no matter how many times you’ve heard it, it’s worth mentioning again: Show up on time – i.e., 15 minutes early. It lets the hiring manager know you’re serious about landing the job.
Dress Like You Mean Business
It can be awkward if you show up at a job interview overdressed—or underdressed. Always dress appropriately for an interview, so you make the best first impression. Go online to get an idea of the organization’s culture. When you show up smartly dressed in scuff-less shoes and portfolio in tow, you’ll come across as professional and well put-together.
Put the Phone Away
These days pulling out your smartphone any time you have a few idle minutes is second nature. But if you’re waiting in the lobby for your interview to start, take that time to look over your resume and think through what you want to convey during your interview.
Exude Confidence
Doing your pre-interview homework will help you feel good about your attributes for the job. Be sure to smile, have a good handshake, and show your enthusiasm and passion for what you do and what you’d like to do in your next job.
Make a Connection
After the initial introductions have been made, solidify your first impression by making a connection with the interviewer. Examples: How long has the interviewer lived in the area? Where did he or she move from? Draw out details that will get you that “in” (“Oh, you moved from Seattle? I lived there a few years back—isn’t traffic the worst?”.)
Follow Up
Be sure to follow up on your interview with an email message, or phone call. Texting is usually not appropriate. In addition to relaying your thanks for the interview, reiterate why you’re a terrific candidate for the job.
Reach Out to the Pros
Interviewing is serious work. The advantage of working with a recruiter during your job search is they will help you prepare to shine. Because a recruiting agency knows the market, the hiring company, and the ins and outs of the job, they can help coach you so that you’re confident, poised, and ready to make a great impression!
Contact us
Lanmark Staffing has over 40 years of combined experience in human resources, recruiting, temporary placement services, temp-to-hire services, sales, and management. Our team of experienced recruiters can help you prepare for and land that next dream job! Contact our offices today.
Great advice, Thanks