How to create Magic in the first few seconds of the interview?

➡️ Interviews are not always objective. Studies show that it’s not the best candidate, but the candidate that makes the best impression that’s more likely to succeed.

➡️ A strong first impression gives you more latitude to be human (in case you make a mistake later on).

➡️ Create the ‘halo effect’  right at the start. Remove any red flags from your social media handles, especially Linkedin, which is often your ‘first impression’, even before  your Resume.

➡️  Make a stellar first impression with your attire. Dress professionally – one notch higher than the Company dress code. Lean slightly towards conservative, rather than ultra fashionable. You want the interviewer to concentrate on you, not your attire.

➡️ Avoid excessive makeup or strong perfume. You don’t want your perfume to enter the room before you.

➡️ Punctuality is a given. ‘If you’re early (5-10 minutes) you’re on time, if you’re on time, you’re late. In the event of an emergency, call & inform.

➡️ Carry only essentials, avoid expensive accessories like high end handbags bags/watches.

➡️ Carry a portfolio with your Resume, the Job description and any job related references.

➡️ Be polite to security & front desk attendants. Avoid using a mobile, even in the waiting area.

➡️  Make a confident entry standing tall with shoulders drawn back.

➡️ Don’t be afraid to make the first moves. Extend a firm handshake, while keeping a comfortable eye contact.

➡️ A genuine, friendly smile and open body language exude positivity.

➡️ Address the interviewer by name to create a connection. Get the name & pronunciation right. It’s basic etiquette.

➡️ Thank the interviewer for their time when you enter and before you leave.

➡️ Engage and be Engaging. Your aim is not to ‘wow and dazzle’ the interviewer.

➡️ Rather, to create  a conversation that’s memorable and engaging.

➡️ The better you make the interviewer feel, the more she will be inclined to have a positive impression of you.

✅Please add any other points that may have been missed out.

A fun real life story (supposedly) :

One day a man appeared for an interview dressed like a tramp; with dirty clothes, mud caked shoes, beard unshaven & hair disheveled.

The interviewer politely told him to go home, and return after a week having bathed, and put on a fresh set of clothes.

Come a week, the man turned up on the appointed date, dressed just as he had on the first occasion.

Guess what? This time he did get the job!

That man was the famous actor George Clooney.

Since you’re less likely to be interviewing for an actor’s job,
‘Better safe than sorry’

#skillgrill #jobsearchcoach #interviewtips #career #hr