Making the First Impression

You know that saying, "You don't get a second chance to make a first impression"? That's very true with the interview process.

Like it or not, we all make hasty judgments about people based on the way they look, what they wear and how they talk. Employers do the same thing. They're only human, after all.

You can stack the odds in your favor by making a conscious effort to make a good first impression. This doesn't mean not being yourself—it just means presenting your best side.

The first thing that will be noticed is your clothing. To get a feel for the dress code, drive by the business on different days and observe what the employees are wearing. For an interview, you want to dress a little nicer than that. When in doubt, it's always better to dress up rather than dress down.

Here are some other tips:

• Make sure you're clean and groomed. Simple things such as chewing gum, animal hair on your clothes, bad breath, dandruff, a scruffy beard, body odor, a run in your panty hose or dirty fingernails can ruin a first impression.
• Have your hair appropriately styled. If you need a haircut, get one before the interview.
• Don't wear perfume or aftershave. The interviewer may not like your favorite fragrance or may have allergies.
• Don't smoke in your interview clothes. If you smoke before changing into your interview clothes, brush your teeth or use mouthwash.
• Come to the interview alone. Arrive about 15 minutes early so you can get settled and fill out any necessary forms.
• Look the interviewer in the eye and shake hands firmly (but not hard enough to hurt).
• Speak clearly and use good grammar. Say "yes" instead of "yeah" and avoid words such as "um" and "you know."
• Smile frequently and show your interest in the job.
• Find something good to say about past jobs. Employers rarely hire complainers.
• Be warm and caring. Employers are evaluating whether you'll "fit in" with the other employees.
• At the end of the interview, shake hands again and thank the interviewer for his or her time. Ask when they expect to make a decision, and when you should call to inquire.

While not part of the interview, send a thank-you note as soon as you return home. If you wish, include a couple of points that didn't come up in the interview, and restate your interest in the position. Always thank the interviewer for his or her time.