In any walk of life it is always beneficial if you can make a great first impression and it is especially true if you are looking for a new job. At GPW Recruitment we have the knowledge and expertise to help jobseekers make an excellent first, and lasting, impression when they attend an interview or when they are in conversation with people in a workplace environment.
An impression of you may already have developed prior to physically meeting someone. This is common in the recruitment industry as it is likely you will have previously had email or telephone correspondence with somebody before actually meeting them in person. It is important that whatever that impression is, you present yourself in a polite, professional and confident manner.
Our experienced team are on hand to provide a few tips to help you to make a great first and lasting impression at your job interview.
Everyone Has a Value
Naturally, people will seek to make an impression on the person conducting the interview or a director of the company if you get the opportunity. However, this does not mean you should focus solely on them.
People you meet at reception and in the hallway could potentially be your colleagues one day so make sure you’re polite and say hello should the opportunity arise. They may even put a good word in for you once they realise the position you are applying for.
Dress to Impress
Increase your chances of leaving a lasting impression or getting a job by dressing smartly. Even if you over-dress for an interview it will help you to stand out from other applicants. Being memorable can improve your chances of being successful.
By presenting yourself in a smart manner you will give the impression of someone with an assured attitude, even if the company has a relaxed dress code.
Make a Professional Introduction
Greet your interviewer with a confident handshake and remember to make eye contact. Not only is this a professional way to get your interview underway but it will help to make a great first impression too.
If you get the chance to break the ice prior to entering the interview then make sure you take advantage of it. Even if it is only a quick chat for a couple of minutes as you walk to where the interview will take place, it is a great chance to speak on a more conversational level. Ask the interviewer how their day has been? Show an interest.
Be Prepared
You may need to present various aspects of why you are suitable for the job so ensure you are properly prepared. If you are required to use a laptop for a presentation, print off handouts as a backup in case you cannot connect to the internet or the projector in the room you are being interviewed in. By bringing physical copies of your work you will give the impression of someone who is serious about the interview and who is willing to go the extra mile in order to be successful.
Once the interview is over allow the interviewer to keep the information you have printed out and that way you leave something behind, which will help them to remember you as they assess the candidates.
A Final and Lasting Impression
As your interview reaches its conclusion make sure you leave a good final impression by thanking the interviewer for their time and for the opportunity. Again, a confident handshake will go a long way.
A day or two later a polite, short, follow up email will do no harm. In the event you do not get the job, if further opportunities arise within the same company you will already have a head start on other applicants due to the lasting impression that you made.
To discuss further ‘Tips for Making a Great first Impression at a Job Interview’ contact the GPW team by calling 01744 454 300. Alternatively, email at jobs@gpwrecruitment.co.uk or browse through our jobs board if you would like to see the list of vacancies we have available.