Making Impressions
Write about a time when you met someone who left you with a bad first impression. What made it bad?
Today’s Objectives
Discuss how to make a good first impression.
Decide what kind of attire is appropriate for given situations.
First Impressions
You don’t get a second chance to make a first impression…
Within the first three seconds of a new encounter, you are evaluated… even if it is just a glance.
What do people notice??
Visual appearanceBehaviorDemeanor MannerismsBody LanguageGroomingMaterial possessions/ accessories
Admit it…
You’ve judged a book by its cover before…
“If you paint an old barn… it’s still an old barn!”
Who are you? What does your cover say about you… is it what you want it to say?
So, how do you make a good first impression?
Be on Time– Interview, date, meeting, class, anywhere!
Be Yourself, Be at Ease– You’re not getting paid to put on an act!
Present Yourself Appropriately– Bring what YOU have to offer!
Eye contact and a winning smile– This alone will engage others– a smile is contagious
so spread it!
More tips…
Firm handshake– This alone says more than any words!
Be Open and Confident– If you don’t believe in yourself, who will?
Small Talk Goes a Long Way…– What do you talk about?
Be Courteous And Attentive– Please, thank you, show your manners!
What should you wear?
Good question!!Different occasions call for different attire
Rule of thumb…– Always dress one step above your audience.
– It’s better to STAND out, not STICK out!
Rule of Thumb…
What is your interviewer going to be wearing? Do some research!– Wear equivalent attire.
– If you are applying for a landscaping position, and the boss is wearing work clothes that are covered in dirt… what should you wear?
– What if all of the employees wear uniforms?
Interview = Opportunity
When you apply for a job always:– know your schedule/ availability– You should ALWAYS follow up once you
apply!• Persistence pays off!
– Plan to be interviewed (be prepared)• This is a good thing
– Plan on your “future employer” calling you for an interview
Interview = Opportunity
Telephone Etiquette – Following up…
• Call approximately 1-2 days after you apply• Speak with the manager/ owner• Introduce yourself• Have an objective in mind!
– “I’m calling to follow up with an application that I submitted on __(the day before last)__.”
• Ask a question– When do you foresee this position being filled?
Interview = Opportunity
Telephone Etiquette– When they call you…
• Always answer the phone seriously • Have a professional voicemail (just in case)• Speak clearly and slowly• Breath often/ relax• Discuss a time and place• Ask questions• Show appreciation• Restate the time and place
– I look forward to seeing you on Thursday at 11 am
Judgment Day… day of interview
Plan ahead!– Research- know what you’re getting into– Have directions or know how long it will take– Be 15 minutes early – Have the phone number of the place with you
just in case something comes up!
Judgment Day… day of interview
Dress to impress! Take extra copies of your resume and
references. ALWAYS introduce yourself and shake
the interviewers hand! (review first impression tips)
Don’t just have a seat, let them seat you!– Sit attentively on your sit bones!
Judgment Day… day of interview
Be Prepared to answer questions…– Tell me about yourself.– Why are you interested in this position?– What do you have to offer this business?– What do you consider your strengths and weaknesses?– What motivates you?– What has been your greatest disappointment in life?– If a co-worker or boss was abusing the system, how would
you handle it?– What will you do if you don’t get this position?– What are your goals in the next 5-10 years?
Judgment Day… day of interview
Have pre-formed questions and a notebook to take notes!– How long have you worked here…?
– What does a typical day consist of?
– Why is this position available?
– What are your expectations for this position?
– What are the first tasks I would be doing if hired?
– When do you plan to hire for this position?
Judgment Day… day of interview
THANK THEM for their time!Shake their hand AGAIN!Wish them a good day
– “Have a good day, and I hope to hear from you soon!”
Thank the receptionist as you leave.
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