First Impression Blunders To Avoid

Preparing for an interview requires hard work and preparation. From researching what the position requires to perfecting your response to typical questions, one should be prepared to answer any inquiries the interviewer throws out. However, the interview is not only judged by what you say, but by how you say it and the manner in which you present yourself.

Job interviews will usually begin and end with a handshake, a subtle chance to give the desired first and last impression. Deliver the handshake with confidence; one that is limp conveys uncertainty while one that is crushing would cause the interviewer discomfort. Your shake should be smooth, yet firm, and not be overly enthusiastic.

The best way to approach the interview is to think of it as a regular formal conversation where non-verbal communication is just as important as what is said. Projecting a facial expression which is appropriate to the situation builds a sense of trust and allows the interviewers to have a better sense of what kind of person you are.

Appropriate eye contact throughout the interview is another signal of confidence and professional demeanor. Find the balance between awkwardly staring at the interviewer and looking all over the place.

Casually break your glance when appropriate for brief periods of time, but make your actions appear unforced and natural. When interviewing in front of multiple individuals, shift your glance from person to person, as if you are talking to them individually, but give the most attention to the person who asked you the question.