You never get a second chance to make the right first impression:
Mastering a few simple techniques could secure you that sought-after job. Employers make their judgement within seconds of meeting you; good body language, eye contact and interview technique are essential to creating the right first impression.

Body language

How you express yourself goes far beyond the words you use. Research shows that 55% of a first impression is based on visual impact. Scruffy dress creates a bad impression and poor body language can hint at traits such as deceitfulness, nervousness, boredom or aggression.

Handshake

There's a real truth about a good handshake and eye contact. A good handshake is firm and equal - placing your hand on top or below is a sign of dominance or subservience. A limp handshake indicates a person with weak self-esteem.

Simple steps to success

• Sitting upright and leaning slightly towards your interviewer demonstrates you're interested, positive and confident.
• Sitti ng with your legs parallel and arms uncrossed shows open body language, which indicates sincerity and openness.
• Good eye contact with your interviewer reveals your level of interest and honesty. If you are being interviewed by more than one person, maintain eye contact with the full interview panel.
• Under interview pressure it's easy to get carried away by talking too fast and babbling - slow down and keep it relevant.
• Avoid errs and ums, swearing, slang, joking and repetition.
• Use good manners. Avoid heavy sighing or blaspheming and pronounce words properly.
• Keep your answers concise but be aware to expand on information by not giving yes or no answers.
• As your interviewer explains the opportunity to you, show a positive reaction by nodding and smiling.
• Without taking it too far, mirroring of each other's body postures is a sign that you're in tune with an interviewer.

Interview Etiquette

• Arrive on time. Allow enough time to park the car off site for minimal fuss and pay for adequate parking.
• Dress in business wear, men should wear ties and be cleanly shaven. Candidates must be showered and with clean shoes.
• Remove any facial piercings.
• Switch off your mobile phone.
• Don't chew gum.
• Thank the interviewer at the beginning for their time.
• Do not sit down until shown a seat.
• Find time in the interview to explain why you're interested in this role and what makes you a suitable candidate.
• Always be positive about previous positions and managers.
• Try to find a good angle about everything you're discussing to show you're the type of person who always looks on the bright side.
• Choose things about the company or interviewer you are impressed with and don't be afraid to compliment them.
• Prepare and ask several questions at the end to demonstrate your level of interest and gain more information about the role or the company.
• Thank your interviewer at the end.
• Remember to say if you want the job.

For individual advice about your interview technique pop into one of our SOS Branch Offices and speak to one of our trained advisors.