Are First Impressions Hurting Your Employment Chances?

February 20th, 2015

Of course, the interview is the most important contributor to your ultimate success during a job search. If you haven’t had much luck with your efforts, are the first impressions you give interviewers hampering your shot at a great job? Don’t fret if this is the case, chances are good that any problems are correctable.

Here are some techniques for making a better first impression on a job interview.

You Must Dress for Success!

Sure, it sounds a bit like a cliché, but you absolutely need to dress professionally during an interview. Don’t assume that business casual means “professional” when it comes to your first meeting with a potential employer. A suit and tie are a must for men, while a nice blouse with either a skirt or dress pants are a requirement for women.

Don’t Skimp on the Hygiene

Additionally, make sure your hygiene is exemplary. Men need to be well shaven, with any facial hair nicely trimmed, and everyone needs to spend extra effort on their hair and fingernails. Don’t go overboard with cologne or perfume, though.

A Firm Handshake and a Clear Look in the Eye

When walking into an interview, be sure to extend your hand first for a firm handshake, while making eye contact with the interviewer. While you may be nervous, this moment is your first impression. You need to get this part right!

Good Sitting Posture is a Must

Before the interview, take some time to practice your sitting posture. Seriously. Any subconscious slouching or other examples of bad posture can leave a poor impression on the interviewer.

Thank the Interviewer for the Opportunity

When the interview concludes, be sure to thank the interviewer for the opportunity. This is another time for a firm handshake and strong eye contact. Mention that you are available for follow up questions and that you look forward to the next steps in the hiring process.

If you need additional advice on interview preparation, talk to the experts at Pinnacle Workforce. As one of the top medical staffing agencies in the country, we can help you take your career to the next level. Give us a call or send us an email today!

Want to stand out after your Interview? Use these Follow Up Tips.

December 22nd, 2014

Even after the Great Recession, the job market remains very competitive. If you were lucky enough to be one of the few out of hundreds of candidates to get an interview, making an impression sometimes isn’t easy. Being sure to properly follow up with the company after an interview is a great way to stand out, earn a second interview, and then hopefully score a great job offer.

With so many in competition for so few open positions, it is important to shine before, during, and after an interview. Here are some additional tips for a successful post-interview follow up.

Always send a Follow Up Email or Letter

Sending a follow up email or letter after an interview is simply the professional thing to do. Use this opportunity to thank the person for the opportunity to interview for the open position. Additionally, leverage this chance to expound on some of the ideas discussed during the interview; consider it another window for you to sell the company on your abilities and personality.

Don’t be a Pest Regarding whether they’ve made a Final Decision

While it is important to follow up at least one time after an interview, don’t be a pest when it comes to finding out when and if they’ve made a final choice on which candidate earned the job offer. Never call back more than two times; if you haven’t heard either way, it’s best to move on to other opportunities.

Never get Discouraged by Rejections — Stay on Course!

Even if you didn’t get the job, it is important to never be discouraged when hunting for a new position. Competition for good jobs remains fierce, so don’t take the rejection personally. It is now time to focus on the many other open positions waiting for your résumé, interview, and professional follow up.

If you want additional advice on top notch résumé creation and interview preparation, talk to the experts at Pinnacle Workforce. As one of the top staffing agencies in the healthcare industry, we can help you find a perfect new position. Make it a point to schedule time with Pinnacle today!

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