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Northeastern British Columbia
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TOP 10 WAYS TO MAKE POSITIVE FIRST IMPRESSIONS

  1. SMILE
    A friendly face is more pleasant than a grim one.
     
  2. BE READY TO SHAKE HANDS
    Be alert and quick to respond to the interviewer both at the beginning and at the end of the interview. If the interviewer offered to shake hands at the beginning, then you offer first at the end. Grasp the offered hand firmly and maintain your grip for about two seconds.
     
  3. DON'T CHEW GUM
          -- ever!
     
  4. DON'T SIT DOWN UNTIL YOU ARE INVITED TO
    If you have a choice, don't sit across the room. Sit as near to the interviewer's desk as possible, and face the Interviewer. Don't lean on the desk.
     
  5. MAINTAIN EYE CONTACT*
    If you don't, many people feel that you are lying or not dependable. Do not wear dark glasses.
     
  6. BE ATTENTIVE TO BODY LANGUAGE
    Avoid raising barriers. Don't cross your arms across your chest. Don't place anything on the desk between you and the interviewer. Avoid the appearance of withdrawing from the interviewer.
     
  7. BE CALM AND POISED
    Avoid nervous habits. Don't cross your legs and keep the free foot moving; don't play with your fingernails; keep your hands off your moustache, beard, and/or hair; don't play with jewellery; don't tap your finger on the chair arm or table; sit up straight--don't slouch; avoid aggravating speech habits such as "eh!"
     
  8. CONSIDER EACH INTERVIEW A CHALLENGE
    Be enthusiastic about working for that employer and about the job.
     
  9. SHUT THE DOOR ON YOUR TROUBLES
    Try to avoid discussions about family or financial problems. Think about what you can do for the employer.
     
  10. LISTEN TO THE INTERVIEWER
    Consider your answer carefully and be sure you understood the question.

*There are cultural differences regarding the role of eye contact.