by Sindy Martin

Created on: September 03, 2008

How we enter the interview waiting room can be as important as what we do in the waiting room! Could you be characterized as the "duck", "elephant" or "mouse"?

If you are a duck you enter the room with a wide toothed grin, both feet pointing out. People notice you, but not for the right reasons.

If you are an elephant you enter the room by charging in with both arms swinging wide. People back up for fear you might knock them down.

If you are a mouse you slip into the room quietly trying not to make eye contact. People make a mental note that you are not a very confident person.

So how should you enter a room? Stand up straight with a confident air. Close the door by entering the room and closing the door behind you without turning to face it.

Put a pleasant look on your face and a slight smile. Save that wide smile for the person that you speak to first, not the whole room at once. Make eye contact briefly with each person in the room. Don't swing your arms wider than the width of your shoulders. You feet should be pointing straigt as you walk forward.

Have your portfolio and or brief case organized so that no papers are sticking out. Don't enter with your paper resume in hand. If you don't have a portfolio or brief case, but the resume in a clean unbent file folder.

Introduce yourself and explain your reason for arrival to the receptionist. Shake the receptionists hand and present your business card to him/her. There is a proper way to shake hands and to present your business card. Read more on that subject to polish your professionalism.

Select a chair that gives you the best view of the room and allows you to converse easily with the receptionist and others in the room. Never underestimate the power of a good impression on the receptionist.

Once seated, do not cross your legs. Sit up straight with both feet forward. Sit relaxed and comfortable, just not too comfortable. Remember to keep your posture and a pleasant look on your face. Make eye contact and greet others in the room.

Remember that you will need to do all of the above when you enter the room where the interview will take place. The first few minutes of the interview will make a lasting impression. Body language speaks louder than words.

Take a deep breath, exhale slowly and repeat the word tranquility in your mind. It's ok to be nervous at an interview, everyone is. Once you start talking about your accomplishments, you'll be fine.

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