Ways to Make a Lasting Impression on the Interviewer

Interview first impressions are crucial to landing your dream job. Create a positive first impression and a strong lasting impression with interview preparation that makes you stand out among the other candidates and shows you are the ideal fit for the position.

Image management should be a top priority for interviewees, according to Lisa Quast of Forbes. Make positive interview first impressions by dressing to impress. Enhance the interviewers' perception of you with careful attention to hygiene, business attire and mannerisms. Analyze your attire to ensure it is appropriate for the industry, and question whether or not it expresses your professionalism and creativity. Avoid wearing accessories or jewelry that may provoke you to fidget or distract the interviewer. Wear professional attire that makes you feel confident so you can project this attitude during the interview.

Pay close attention to your nonverbal cues and body language to enhance interview first impressions and to leave a lasting memory with the interviewer. Practice your handshake with friends and family to make sure it is firm yet not too aggressive or limp. Establish strong eye contact when responding to interview questions, and avoid looking down as this may indicate a lack of confidence. Record yourself speaking prior to the interview to recognize verbal fillers that can be distracting or phrases that may not sound professional. Ensure your tone is friendly, likable and approachable. Add a smile at the end of each response where this can be done naturally, and pay close attention to your facial expressions.

Keep the tone positive. Answer interview questions with a focus on accomplishments, skill-based successes and memorable moments in your job history. An upbeat personality leaves a long-lasting impression far better than a candidate who is a bundle of nerves. Keep nerves in check by taking deep breaths and focusing on positive experiences within past positions. Avoid negative comments about past or current employers, and focus on how you have the ability to make the most of any opportunity.

Interview first impressions matter, so arm yourself with information prior to the interview so you can display your knowledge of the company. Research the products and services sold, the status of the company in the industry, as well as its competitors, and read the latest news announcements pertaining to the company's success. You can talk about this information or ask focused questions related to your research to enhance interview first impressions and show that you are invested in the company's success.

Interview styles vary, but candidates can make solid interview first impressions by focusing on the positive, preparing thoroughly and paying close attention to business attire and nonverbal communication. Show that you are the best candidate for the job by displaying a professional attitude from the start of the interview to the final farewells.

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