The typical job interview gives you an hour or less to sell yourself as the best candidate for the position, so it's important that you impress the hiring manager from the start. From the first handshake to the final farewell, make sure you leave a lasting impression with the hiring manager using these seven strategies.
1. Show up Early
Give yourself plenty of time to arrive to the interview destination, find parking and check in with the receptionist. Plan to arrive 10 to 15 minutes early so you have time to gather your thoughts without feeling rushed. Don't show up any earlier though, as it may throw off the hiring manager's schedule.
2. Be Polite to Everyone
Be courteous to everyone you encounter, whether it's the doorman in the lobby, the receptionist at the front desk or the well-dressed executive you encounter while washing your hands in the restroom. Hiring managers have been known to ask their receptionists for feedback on candidates, and that executive from the washroom could be the CEO of the company.
3. Offer a Warm Greeting
When the hiring manager greets you, offer a firm handshake and make eye contact. Offer a genuine smile as you introduce yourself. Engage in small talk as you make your way to the interview room, even if it's about the weather.
4. Bring a Flawless Resume
Tailor your resume for the position and the organization. Include quantifiable data to show your skills and focus on your past achievements. Use keywords from the job posting and the company's mission statement to make your resume relevant. Remember to bring several copies of your resume to the interview.
5. Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare some questions ahead of time to show that you put plenty of thought into the interview. Ask why the previous employee left the position, inquire about the company culture or discuss some challenges the company faces. Never turn down the opportunity to ask questions, as doing so shows a lack of interest in the job.
6. Mind Your Body Language
Pay close attention to your body language throughout the interview. Sit up straight and make eye contact with the hiring manager and any other interview panelists as you answer their questions. Avoid the urge to fidget with a pen or shuffle through papers.
7. Let Your Passion Show Through
As you discuss your desire for the position, let your enthusiasm speak for itself. Discuss your accomplishments that make you the perfect person for the job and describe exactly what you can do to improve the company.
First impressions are everything, so it's imperative that you get the hiring manager's attention from the first interaction. These seven strategies are a great start. Help out other job interview hopefuls. What's your sure-fire strategy for impressing the hiring manager?
Photo courtesy of Ambro at FreeDigitalPhotos.net
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