"The Two Minute Drill" to Interviewing"
Carla Larkin
Issue date: 3/4/10 Section: News
When interviewing, it begins even before you say your first word in an interview.
As the interviewer walks toward you to shake hands, an opinion is already being formed. 93% of your first impression is based on your image, and employers say that they often make a decision on a candidate within the first 5 seconds of an interview.
As you sit waiting to spew out your answers to questions you've prepared for, you are already being judged by your appearance, posture, smile or your nervous look. The following seven steps, or "two-minute drill" will guide you toward a best-case interview scenario. Appearance counts!
When you look good, you feel good. Make sure you look groomed and neat. If you were a book, would someone want to read more?
Your clothes and accessories should be conservative and neutral rather than wild and loud. Your clothes are your packaging and should not take attention away from the product. Dress for success general guidelines (complete list for women and men in career services office):
Select apparel, fragrances, jewelry, hairstyle, etc that do not detract from your professional image.
Remove facial and body piercings other than single ear jewelry.
Visible tattoos should be covered to avoid distraction.
Apparel should be clean and neatly pressed, fit well and remain in place while sitting and/or walking. Less is more. Keep your look simple and successful until you become accustomed to the environment and learn about the company's dress code.
Nonverbal communication sometimes conveys a stronger message than words.
When you slouch, whether sitting or standing, you're saying volumes about you and your confidence level. Sit up straight - like you mother always told you too.
When you stand, make yourself as tall as possible; shoulders back and head held high.
Eye contact and smiles can indicate a confident and upbeat attitude.
You will notice that many job posting ask for enthusiasm and energy. This is a good opportunity to demonstrate your social and interpersonal skills as well as your excitement about the opportunity for which you're interviewing.
The handshake sends a strong tactile message. Whether your hands are hot and sweaty or cold and clammy, you can try some tricks to control the temperature. To cool your hands, try running cold water on the insides of your wrists.
Use hot water if your hands are cool. If you have particularly sweaty hands, try using a deodorant gel (antiperspirant_ as a lotion.
Your voice and the volume of your speech convey a strong impression.
Whether the interview's over the phone or face-to-face, you should speak with enthusiasm and energy. Use a firm voice to demonstrate confidence.
Your vocabulary reveals your communication skills and ability to interact with people, especially ones you've not met before. The words you choose will say something about you, as well as your knowledge of the industry. It is important to use their words and talk their talk.
As the interviewer walks toward you to shake hands, an opinion is already being formed. 93% of your first impression is based on your image, and employers say that they often make a decision on a candidate within the first 5 seconds of an interview.
As you sit waiting to spew out your answers to questions you've prepared for, you are already being judged by your appearance, posture, smile or your nervous look. The following seven steps, or "two-minute drill" will guide you toward a best-case interview scenario. Appearance counts!
When you look good, you feel good. Make sure you look groomed and neat. If you were a book, would someone want to read more?
Your clothes and accessories should be conservative and neutral rather than wild and loud. Your clothes are your packaging and should not take attention away from the product. Dress for success general guidelines (complete list for women and men in career services office):
Select apparel, fragrances, jewelry, hairstyle, etc that do not detract from your professional image.
Remove facial and body piercings other than single ear jewelry.
Visible tattoos should be covered to avoid distraction.
Apparel should be clean and neatly pressed, fit well and remain in place while sitting and/or walking. Less is more. Keep your look simple and successful until you become accustomed to the environment and learn about the company's dress code.
Nonverbal communication sometimes conveys a stronger message than words.
When you slouch, whether sitting or standing, you're saying volumes about you and your confidence level. Sit up straight - like you mother always told you too.
When you stand, make yourself as tall as possible; shoulders back and head held high.
Eye contact and smiles can indicate a confident and upbeat attitude.
You will notice that many job posting ask for enthusiasm and energy. This is a good opportunity to demonstrate your social and interpersonal skills as well as your excitement about the opportunity for which you're interviewing.
The handshake sends a strong tactile message. Whether your hands are hot and sweaty or cold and clammy, you can try some tricks to control the temperature. To cool your hands, try running cold water on the insides of your wrists.
Use hot water if your hands are cool. If you have particularly sweaty hands, try using a deodorant gel (antiperspirant_ as a lotion.
Your voice and the volume of your speech convey a strong impression.
Whether the interview's over the phone or face-to-face, you should speak with enthusiasm and energy. Use a firm voice to demonstrate confidence.
Your vocabulary reveals your communication skills and ability to interact with people, especially ones you've not met before. The words you choose will say something about you, as well as your knowledge of the industry. It is important to use their words and talk their talk.
Viewing Comments 1 - 2 of 2
Cincinnati moving companies
posted 3/10/10 @ 11:43 AM CST
You're right, every part of the interview counts, even before the questions start coming. It's very important to be prepared.
purchase paper
posted 3/17/10 @ 6:09 AM CST
Great interview, I must admit..Keep up good work!
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