How to Make a Good First Impression in Interviews
As you know the first impression you make in interviews is important. People decide who they think you are pretty fast after meeting you.
But how exactly do you make a good first impression?
Some of it is about finding your own style and vibe, but remember interviews are a performance to a certain extent, so don't just wing it.
Rehearse your stories and be intentional about all aspects of how you show up to all interviews.
Below are a few tips to set you up for success in making a good first impression.
A lot of what makes good first impressions are the non-verbal cues you use.
In other words, it's not always about what you say.
1. Smile and bring high energy
This is an underrated skill for good public speakers. You are in control of the energy you bring to interviews.
When you are enthusiastic it shows passion and makes people feel good.
It also makes it seem like you genuinely want the job.
No matter how your day is actually going, turn up the engery dial for interviews.
2. Present yourself well on camera
For virtual interviews make sure your setup is optimized.
This means having good lighting, a non-distracting background (virtual backgrounds are popular now), and no sound interruptions.
Ideally, sit 18-24 inches (an arm's length) away from the computer screen during the call and have natural light on you.
If it's helpful test your audio and visual set up before the interview to get a feel for how you'll look.
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SIDE NOTE: I did a whole presentation at Twilio about acing virtual interviews. Check out the video here.
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3. Improve your small talk
When you begin an interview the conversations often start with banal small talk. It's often about the weather...we've all been there. 😏
But the first 30-60 seconds are an opportunity for you to make yourself stand out by bringing up something more compelling.
Mention something specific and interesting about the person interviewing you that you found during your prep.
Everyone loves talking about themselves so thisis an opportunity to glean more context about the person.
It also shows you are ready and did your research.
4. Bring a notebook to every interview
This is another non-verbal way to show you are prepared and serious about the interview.
It's ok to both take notes and reference your notes during interviews.
Interviews are not a memory competition, so look at your notes to cue yourself if needed.
Minimally have these things written in your notes:
☝🏽 Questions you want to ask the hiring team
✌🏾 Names of interviewers with pronunciation if needed
🤟🏼 Refernece cues to stories you want to share
Top candidates are thinking of all these elements and leveraging them to their advantage in addition to perfecting their interview narrative.
Don't underestimate the power of your first impression in interviews.
Bring your A-game to every interview.
Want to know the job search process that helped my clients land at FAANG companies? I share my entire job search system in this workbook 👇🏾
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