A good first impression is imperative when you interview for a job. You should have a controlled appearance and positive demeanor that will impress your potential employer and won’t detract from the presentation of your qualifications. Make sure you are well equipped for scrutiny in the interview and post-interview process — both in-person and online. Here are four elements of professional presentation that will help you get the job:
Information Employers Can Find
Potential employers will be naturally curious about how you conduct yourself in your personal life. Many employers will do an Internet search and look up an applicant’s social media profiles. Make sure your social media profiles are set to private and delete any incriminating photos that display questionable behavior. Google your name, as well, so you can see the full extent of your Internet presence. Set up a Google alert for your name, so you can take immediate action for the removal of any negative content. Employers may ask for your signature on a mandate that will allow access to your driving record through the DVLA. Do not preemptively share your driving record, as it is not required and may contain disqualifying information. Brush up on your driving knowledge with the help of Top Tests so you can avoid a blemished driving record. Keep your driving record pristine through a keen awareness and dedicated practice of the rules of the road.
Portfolio and Resume Presentation
Bring the necessary materials to your interview, like a resume or portfolio. Your portfolio should be comprised of all relevant work that will impress your employer. The presentation of your portfolio should be sleek, clean and professional. Make sure all documents are adequately bound and kept in an aesthetically-pleasing folder. Your resume should be kept in perfect condition, so it isn’t presented with any rips, crinkles or smudges. Keep your resume in a folder that will protect it from any harm, so any imperfections won’t distract from its content.
Dress the Part
While your apparel seems like it may not influence the decision of your potential employer, it could distract or give off an undesirable impression. Make sure you professionally present yourself in apparel that fits with the style of the company. Look up the company’s website, as it is bound to have photos of its employees. Study what the employees wear and emulate their look for your interview, so it looks like you would fit in. It is always best that you dress up, rather than dress down. The extent of which you dress — be it in a tailored suit or a pressed, collared shirt and trousers — will depend on the job you’re interviewing for. As a rule of thumb, do not wear any wrinkled, dirty or torn clothing and steer clear of distracting prints or graphics.
All in the Details
“It’s the little details that are vital,” John Wooden once said. This quote relates to many things, though is especially relevant in professional presentation. Your physical appearance and nonverbal communication will enhance your interview, if done right. Posture is imperative, as straight posture indicates that you have a strong and controlled sense of self. Slumped shoulders may indicate that you are weaker and lack confidence. Try a power stance, in the bathroom, before your interview — this will help you maintain confident posture throughout your meeting. Eye contact is another necessary detail during an interview. Eye contact is also essential, non verbal communication, as it indicates you are attentive, sociable, confident and reliable.
