Your first impression should spark the interviewers’ interest within minutes of your initial meeting. If the interviewer(s) are interested in the first impression, it can capture their attention and keep them engaged. In the first couple of minutes, there are things you can do to make a confident first impression.
Watch the video and read the information below for valuable suggestions on body language and verbal communication skills. Download the During the Interview tipsheet - opens in a new window to help you prepare for future interviews.
When you arrive at the interview, make sure you have your prepared list of questions to ask the interviewer. When the interviewer ask you, “Do you have any questions for me?” you will have something to say! It will show you are prepared and interested in the opportunity. You should also bring your resume and the other documents listed on the page for ‘Before the Interview’, under Getting Prepared.
Arrive for your interview 10-15 minutes before your scheduled interview time. It’s important to show to you’re prepared. If you feel that you might be running late, be courteous and contact the interviewer to let them know; this will give them the opportunity to reschedule if it is more convenient.
Introduce yourself with a solid handshake. Remember not to grip too hard or too soft. If your hands perspire when you’re nervous, be sure to keep a tissue on hand to absorb the moisture while you’re waiting to be introduced.
You’re not just concerned about making an impression on your interviewers; ensure that you are friendly to any individual you are in contact with from the moment you walk in the door to the moment you leave. Smiling will create a warm and positive impression, and maintaining eye contact will demonstrate your self-confidence, focus, and respect.
Sit up straight with your feet flat of the floor, hands on your lap, or chair, and your back against chair, this open position will convey interest and engagement. Poor posture, such as slouching or crossed-arms may come across as too casual, and may imply disinterest or even defensiveness. Avoid closed body language, such as crossing your arms or sitting angled away from your interviewer(s).
When you’re nervous, it is common to experience unintentional body movements, such as shaking your leg or playing with a pen. These motions could distract the interviewer from your answers. Put methods in place to avoid fidgeting, such as holding your hands on your knees to be more aware of your leg movements, holding your hands together, or removing any objects that you might be tempted to play with from your vision.
Pay close attention to how fast or slow you are speaking, speak clearly and articulate your words, show enthusiasm by fluctuating your voice tone, and maintain an appropriate volume for the size of the room and number of people you are meeting with. Valuable observations can be made in improving your speech by engaging in mock interviews and practising out loud.
Stay on point and keep the content of your answers relevant to the requirements of the job.
Take your time when answering but be aware of the interviewer’s body language to identify if your answers are going on too long. Are they looking at their watch or the clock to check the time? Although there is no rule of thumb, depending on the question, a one to two minute response is typically appropriate. That being said, assume the interviewer(s) know nothing about you and provide enough details to answer the questions completely.
They are looking for a candidate that displays positivity and who will fit well within their team. Make sure to use positive and constructive language when discussing difficult or conflict situations. Past situations may be emotionally charged, therefore avoid using blaming or negative language when discussing previous employers, colleagues, and work environments.
Your professional image and visual presentation affects an employer’s impression of you. It is important to note that different employers and environments will have differing expectations of formality when it comes to dress codes. For example, a construction company may be much more casual than a law office. Focus on dressing one step above what they would wear to work. This may involve researching the company beforehand or asking the person who has called to schedule the interview what the dress code is.