Why the First Impression Matters at an Interview (and How to Make a Good One!)

smiling women shaking hand to interviewer

Preparing for an interview is exciting and nerve-wracking, all at the same time. While it’s important to dress for the job, there are other things you’ll want to do to set a good first impression to improve your chances of landing the position.

Here’s what you need to know about making a good first impression and preparing for your interview.

Why First Impressions Matter

While your resume holds some weight in determining whether or not you’ll land your dream job, first impressions have a huge impact. In fact, first impressions have shown to impact perceptions of professional competence. By setting a great example for yourself as soon as you walk into the interview room, you’re likely to be seen as professional and capable and a qualified candidate for the position.

Because first impressions hold such weight, you’ll want to put in the necessary time and effort to ensure you look great, are confident, and are prepared for your interview.

Setting a Good First Impression

Since making a good first impression with the interviewer can have a great impact on whether or not you get a job, it’s important that you know how to look and feel your best on interview day.

Dress the Part

One of the first things you’ll want to do is dress the part. You don’t want to walk into the room underdressed or looking unprofessional. As a rule of thumb, men and women should wear an outfit that meets business casual style. By dressing the part, you set a good first impression and give yourself the confidence that you are the most qualified candidate for the job.

Be on Time

There’s nothing more embarrassing (and hurtful to a first impression) than arriving to an interview late. Pad your schedule enough to allow yourself to arrive at least 15 minutes ahead of time. While you may have to sit in your car for an extra few minutes before interview time, this gives you time to read over your resume and the opportunity to take a few breaths to get rid of any jitters you may be experiencing.

Be Confident

Even if you’re nervous, you want to walk into the interview room feeling as if this position was meant for you. Walk in with your head up, shoulders back, and with a smile and offer a firm handshake. All of these actions show that you’re confident and prepared to tackle the interview, showing that you’re also likely capable of handling the job you’ve applied for.

Ask Questions

Once the interviewer has asked you about yourself, there’s often time for you to ask questions of the interviewing company. While most candidates neglect this part of the interview, be sure you don’t! Ask questions about the position and the company. This shows that you’re interested and excited about the potential new job.

Looking for a Job?

well dressed business man adjusting his neck tie

At Prudential Overall Supply, we are hiring! If you’re looking to land a job at a work uniform service provider , the next step is to prepare for your upcoming big interview day.

Learn more about how Prudential Overall Supply services customers throughout North America. We want workforces in every industry, from restaurant apparel to industrial and hospitality employees, to dress the part so they can look and feel their best! From automotive work uniforms to casual clothing, we have the clothing items you need.

Contact us today at (800) 767-5536 or look through our website to learn more about Prudential Overall Supply.

Source:

  1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20718533