First Impressions
First Impressions – guess what: they count! And here is why. It is almost like going on a blind date. Imagine you arranged a meeting with your blind date, but when you walk into the room you see three people who look good and one with hair hanging in their eyes, chains that make it difficult to recognize the gender, and – you are almost sure – a touch of make-up too. And you pray, Please, do not let it be him. Please do not let it be him …. And guess what? It is him!
Clients feel exactly the same way about possible employees. This includes during interviews at recruitment consultancies, agencies or with Human Resources. First impressions are critical and are based on your appearance. The interviewer will start forming an opinion of you before your interview begins. Most employers believe that people who look as if they care about themselves are more likely to care about their job.
Your goal should be to come across in the best possible light by being attractive in the way you dress, in your gestures and facial expressions, and in your speech. There is only one way to dress for the first meeting: professional.
Every person has certain likes and dislikes, and although a position should be based on your ability to do the job, people unfortunately work with a gut feeling and perception.
Research has shown that non-verbal communication and appearance accounts for about 80% of a decision being made before you have said one word!
Dress clean-cut, conservative and current. Dressing appropriately is important to establish your credibility and so you will be seen as a person who can be part of a team. Ensure your appearance is clean and tidy. A suit is the best form of dress for both men and women. Your most professional colors are still a black, dark-blue or charcoal suit with a white shirt or blouse and a solid-color tie. As a general rule, the more clothing you have on, the more credible, persuasive, and business-like you will appear.
This does not mean that you should wear a three-piece suit for an interview when the temperature soars to thirty-five degrees; it simply means you have more credibility when this style of dressing is appropriate. It would also depend what type of position you are applying for.
Forget about personal style. You can always wear your “personal style” wardrobe once you have the job and know the company culture. Women should keep in mind that the less skin you show, the higher your credibility. Trousers with a jacket or a formal shirt go well together. Avoid extremely short skirts or daring and plunging necklines. Wear light and professional make-up and ensure you freshen it up prior your interview. Do not let the make-up wear you. Before your interview, wash your hair and groom your nails. Make sure if you are wearing nail polish that it is not chipped.
During the interview, put your bag down beside you, where it does not obstruct movement or get in the way. Always switch that cell phone off.
Men should always refrain from wearing earrings or visible neck chains to the interview. Make sure your nails are clean and cut short and your suit and tie are crisp and clean. Stay away from cartoon-character ties and socks. Clients might not take you seriously.