First Impressions

First impressions are the most important. You've probably heard this a thousand times, but now it actually proves true. A recent survey suggests that employers know if they are going to hire someone or not within the first few minutes of meeting a potential candidate. Some interviews can be up to an hour long but what really matters most is the first few minutes after the opening handshake and small talk. What we all want to know is, how can we make the first minutes stand out?

The simple answer is that you need to master the answers to these important questions:
1. Why are you here?
2. What can you do for us?
3. What makes you different from everyone else?
4. Will you fit in?

Rehearse your answers to these questions! Add your own personal stories and flair to your answers so you stand out. Make sure you take the time to research the company so you can mix your skills with what the company is looking for (it never hurts to throw in your knowledge about the company into your interview - this is your time to flatter them!).

Remember that first impressions count for a lot and use this time to wow them. Prove that you will be advantageous to the company by acting as a problem solver instead of a job seeker. If you can master the art of the first impression then you are on your way to landing your dream job!