We all know the over used adage, ‘the first impression is the last impression’. Well it may sound cliché but it definitely has a lot of value and worth for those that can understand it. We may want to make ourselves feel better by thinking that the outward impression is not so important as what is inside a person or as what you as a potential employee can bring to the table; however, until the decision makers can go past your outward appearance constructively, they may not even reach the gem in the rough that you might be. Therefore, it is imperative to dress well, present yourself in a professional manner so that the interviewees can say yes, this person will be good for our company. The first impression you make on the interviewer is going be an important factor in deciding whether or not you will get the job.
Additionally, you must make sure that you give attention to detail, about you. Your nails, your shoes, the cleanliness of your clothes, all these are things that a potential employer will definitely look at. Like it or not, but your appearance can actually set the tone for the interview in the first few minutes and help the interviewer form an opinion about you, which can enhance or diminish your prospects of getting the job.
According to reliable research, many interviewers make up their minds about you during the first 15-25 seconds of the meeting. Keeping that in mind, here are some do’s and don’ts to consider when going for an interview.
Your Clothes – the first impression
Common sense tells you that the first thing that interviewer is going to note about you when you enter the room is your outfit. It goes without saying that you must dress professionally for an interview and for any other interaction you may have with a potential employer such as training or internship etc. You cannot show up in jeans and a shirt or flip flops; if you give an unserious impression about yourself, then you will be treated in the same manner as well. Make sure your clothes are properly ironed and are clean, free of any stains or marks. Also check to see that none of the shirt buttons are missing and no other repairs are needed. Get the suit ready to be worn, the night before the interview.
Hair & Make up
Your hair should be combed properly, and neatly styled. This goes for both men and women. Women must take special care not to have their hair coming onto their face and into your eyes. It is alright to leave your hair open if you feel that it will stay in place. However, if you know your hair type tends to get untidy, then its better to tie it in a pony tail. For men, it is important that your hair is combed properly so it doesn’t give an untidy or uncouth impression either. Men should shave before they come for interviews since that give a neat look in itself.
Make-up for women, although is important, care must be taken that it is not over done. A bit of light eye shade, a neutral lip-gloss or shine along with very little blush on is just perfect to give a good impression.
The appropriate fragrance
Smelling good is very important in giving a positive first impression. However, both men and women must make sure it is not over done. You must not be reeking in perfume. That might cause a headache for those that are interviewing you and that will definitely work as an instant turnoff. So, it is always better to keep a balanced approached when spraying on perfume.
Shoes
Make special effort to ensure that the shoes you wear are professional, in line with your outfit and clean from top and bottom. Nothing can leave a worse impression than a person wearing dirty shoes to an interview. For ladies, wear comfortable shoes that are also professional. For men wear decent neutral shoes that give the impression that you are serious about working. Wear comfortable yet stylish shoes since you are going to be working for 8 hours straight and you should find yourself being comfortable.
Additional adornment such as jewelry
Simplicity can go a long way when it comes to jewelry and other adornments. Wearing a lot of ornaments makes you look unprofessional and is distracting for the interviewer. Tattoos are a big no no. Overly gaudy watches for men and thick gold bangles etc for women definitely give a negative impression. It is better to simply avoid wearing any jewelry, rather than wearing low quality things that ruin your overall look.
Before you are ready to leave for your interview, give yourself a final check in the mirror to ensure you are all set. Carry yourself as well as you can. Put your best foot forward and see wonderful opportunities open up for you. Best of luck!
