It takes time to really know someone. But the first impression is very important to attract the mind of the interviewer.
You might have studied that it takes about three to five seconds for someone to form an impression about somebody.
Check out the following tips to create a positive first impression.
Physical appearance
You don’t know the person who is taking your interview. The first thing the interviewer about you is your physical appearance. That gives him an idea of what kind of person you are. Make sure you have dressed up appropriately. Now, this doesn’t mean that you have to look like a model. Just perfect grooming and personal hygiene would also help you.
Confidence
Body language matters. In fact, it speaks louder than words. It is important for you to show confidence.
How to be confident?
Stand straight. Project that kind of confidence and of course make good eye contact. Give a smile.
Filler words: There are a few filler words we use often-mostly when nervous- in conversations. These words are short phrases and are used when we fall short of words. These words are as follows:
Tell me something
Wow
Well
You see
By the way
No way
Certainly/ Surely
Exactly
Basically
To be honest
Attentive
It goes without saying that good manners and polite, attentive and courteous behaviour help make a good first impression. In fact, anything less can ruin the one chance you have at making that first impression. So be on your best behavior!
Social Skills
During an interview, good social skills are extremely important if you want to create a good impression on the interviewer.
Try to include the following phrases to improve your social skiils.
Please – Use this word when you request someone to do something for you. The moment you add the word please it doesn’t sound rude. It doesn’t sound like a command.
Thank You – When someone gives you something. When someone compliments you or someone wishes you. Tell him Thank you.
Excuse me – When you pass by or introduce a request then use excuse me.
Ask for permission -
If you are not using them then it’s time to use them.
Dialogue
Answer what is asked. It’s completely normal to feel a little anxious before an interview. Pepper your interview with questions back to the interviewer and you’ll create a dialogue which will naturally relax you: it will quickly become a conversation rather than an examination.
Team player
The head of the organisation have to lead large teams and balance the synergies of a disparate set of people. A person who puts the team before themselves is likely to be targeted as a potential future leader.
Eye contact: It adds to your authenticity.
Be 100% attentive
Show sincere interest in the person you are meeting
Avoid looking over the shoulder, or across the room
Avoid answering your cell phone
Be Honest
Honesty is the best policy. Apply this policy for your interview and get the result - job.
Positive attitude
Avoid using manipulation as a form of persuasion. Maintain a positive attitude. When you think positive thoughts, you don't allow your mind (conscious or subconscious) to entertain any negative thoughts or doubts.
Lying
Don’t lie to your interviewer. Always remember that the person taking the interview is more experienced than you. If you lie on a resume, you have to keep the lie up during the interview. Don’t do this.
Research
Candidates don’t do their research about the role and the company. Don't make that mistake. Be well informed and alert.
Resume
Resumes acts as a catalyst to make a favorable impression on the interviewer. For this reason, it is often referred to as one of the most crucial steps taken during a job search.
Cell phone
While giving an interview, make sure your cell phone is off and not on vibration mode.
Greeting
Greet your interviewer with a firm handshake. Sit up straight and plant your feet firmly on the floor during an interview.
Strengths
You need to prepare for this one way in advance before an interview. List all your strengths in a notepad and try to find ways to back those traits.
Badmouthing former boss
When interviewing for a job, you want your employer to know that you can work well with other people and handle conflicts in a mature and effective way. Therefore, no complaints about your past.
Salary expectation
Commit to working hard. Commit to integrity. Commit to discipline. But do not commit to a timeline, salary expectation or anything more serious. Always stay on a neutral ground.
Hope you find these tips helpful. Apply these tips for the upcoming interviewer and check the result.