Written by Shireena Shroff
Ever wondered how long it takes for someone to form an opinion about you based on their first impression? Only SIX crucial seconds. A mediocre first impression makes people think you and the services you provide will be mediocre. On the other hand, a fabulous first impression tends to make people believe your capabilities and services will be outstanding as well. The image you present should be a reflection of who you are, and your abilities as a professional.
Imagine walking into an interview room, you are nervous, palms are sweaty and heart is pounding. In this economic crisis, finding a job, or even retaining your job is stressful! There is more pressure on details like appearance, speech and behavior. Colors, styles of clothes, body language and speech all come together when assessing your image. Remember, with so many people fighting for the same jobs, you have to identify how to stand out, and be remembered. As an ex-recruiter, I understand the power of image and how it can help convince an interviewer that you are an absolute perfect fit for the job.
Prepping - Interview:
Fully research organization, - remember to find details about organizational structure, and company statistics
Understand profile of role you are interviewing for. Example - if you are interviewing at a bank for a Relationship Manager position, use networking websites - www.linkedin.com to get in contact with RMs and find out about the role and responsibilities
Prepare a list of questions about the company, reporting structure, and company culture to ask the interviewer. It demonstrates passion and sincerity for the job.
Always carry a pen (not one you stole from a hotel room) and notepad for taking notes
Dressing - Interview:
Wear colors that compliment your skin tone and brighten your skin, hair and eyes
Men should stick to wearing a suit and buttoned shirt. If environment of organization is formal, or you are meeting someone very senior, a tie is a good idea
Ladies should avoid off the shoulder blouses and distracting jewelry. Acceptable jewelry for men is a watch and a wedding band.
Men should avoid spiked, gelled hairstyles, and ladies should tie up very long hair
Men should always wear work shoes (never sneakers or casual shoes) and it should always match the color of belt
Ladies generally opt for closed shoes instead of open-toed sandals
When choosing ties, avoid crazy patterns and chose solid colored silk ties.
Behaving & Speaking - Interview:
When entering interview room, walk confidently and always smile. This is your window of opportunity to create a GREAT first impression!
Give a firm smooth handshake
Sit upright and remember not to slouch. Slouching and bad body posture gives the impression you are uninterested or have low-self esteem
When exchanging business cards, take a few seconds to look at the card, instead of immediately sliding it into your pocket or bag.
Speak slowly and think before speaking! When asked a difficult question, take time to deliver an appropriate answer instead of nervously rushing to answer
Maintain eye contact when speaking and remember to sound passionate, intelligent and sincere
With these tips you are recreating your self-image to be more confident, powerful and positive, and perfecting a striking first impression! Use these tools to impress a recruiter and land your dream job!
Shireena Shroff Manchharam, AICI
Sheens Image Consulting Private Limited
Founder & Principal Consultant
Hong Kong +852 61170230
www.sheensimageconsulting.com
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