2 of 20

Write now Article Tools

The importance of a good first impression cannot be overstated when applying for a job. How you represent yourself is your interviewer's opportunity to see how you would represent the company you want to go to work for, if hired. Impressing the interviewer is key to landing the job.

Some job applicants take the attitude that "you can't judge a book by its cover" and rely upon their credentials to impress the person interviewing them. Impressive work experience and a great education are wonderful assets to carry into an interview. However, if grooming and manner of dress are not up to reasonable standards, the negative impact may doom any applicant.

Because it is important, any job applicant should research the dress policy of any company that they interview with. Tee shirts, blue jeans, and tennis shoes might work in a very informal environment, but seldom make a good first impression on anyone. Good grooming and good judgment about how to dress are a part of what every job interview is all about.

By the same token, over-dressing is also a bad idea. Women who wear evening attire for a job application in a conservative office, or men who wear business suits when applying for construction jobs will be negatively viewed. Business operates in the real world, and any manner of dress that seems weird will create a bad first impression.

Within the area of personal grooming, women should be cautious about using excessive makeup. Conservative dress styles are also recommended because most job interviews are not about being sexy or provocative. Men should also be aware that clothing styles that are less than conservative may be viewed in a negative light. Remembering that "business is serious" is always a good idea.

One other area of importance to having an impressive interview for a job is having a good positive attitude. Some interviews that begin with a good first impression based upon appearance end in failure because of negative attitude. Being nervous is understandable, but entering into an interview without expectations that you can land the job can be fatal to your chances of being hired. Be sure to concentrate on all of the reasons why you should get the job to help project a positive attitude towards succeeding.

Everyone has a different potential as to how they might make a good first impression, so individual methods will vary. However, the importance of making a good impression is not debatable. Attention to detail, a little forethought, and a positive attitude will all contribute favorably towards a successful interview. Few successes occur when something less than a favorable impression is made when a job interview commences.

Learn more about this author, Bob Schmidt.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.

Add your voice

Know something about The importance of first impressions in a job interview?
We want to hear your view. Write now!