How to make a great first impression in an interview
First impressions count. Whether in a job interview or a corporate meeting, how you look and act can matter as much as your knowledge and ideas.
“Research shows that most people make an impression about a person within the first 7 seconds, hence, whether you are negotiating a business deal, or going for your first rounds of interviews, impressions can make a difference,” guides Samantha Ng Career Futurist , career consultant from Singapore.
Before you head into your next interview, check out these expert tips to make sure you’re presenting yourself in the right manner and setting yourself up for success.
💄 First impressions go beyond physical appearance
“I would like to believe that we strive to be as objective as we can be, giving both parties a chance to get to know each other, however, we cannot deny the fact that impressions always count. Some may argue that it is superficial to consider first impressions, however, we cannot deny human instincts,” says Samantha.
💭 Imagine you are the hiring manager and the candidate:
💭 Imagine you are the candidate and the hiring manager:
“How do you think it will affect your chances of getting hired?,” she asks.
“First impressions go beyond appearance. They also include body language (eye contact, facial expressions, body posture), first handshake, and the way you connect and make the other person feel,” she adds.
😊 Be your authentic self
Interviewers judge us on 3Cs, says Vicario Reinaldo , corporate trainer and consultant from Singapore.
“Like it or not, in a very competitive interview, often compatibility plays a very important role,” he adds.
To be your most authentic self during the interview, you should:
Kevin Kan , career coach from Singapore, agrees. He says, “While presenting yourself in a positive light is important, be genuine and true to yourself."
"Authenticity can help you build rapport with the interviewer and create a lasting impression. Don't be afraid to showcase your personality, enthusiasm, and passion for the role.”
🛜 Optimise your online presence
“In this digital age, your online persona matters," says Dane Tang , leadership coach from Singapore.
"Your recruiter is sure to check your social presence, especially LinkedIn. Make sure your LinkedIn profile is updated and reflects your skills, experiences, and accomplishments. Spring clean your social accounts to ensure there’s nothing you are not proud to share.”
🤝 Network strategically
“Unlock the doors of opportunity through strategic networking. Build genuine relationships with industry insiders and peers that can help you break through initial preconceptions. People listen to trusted sources. So for that extra boost, leverage mutual contacts to put in a good word or make a warm introduction,” says Dane.
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✅ Address potential biases proactively
“If you sense that the interviewer may have formed a biased opinion, try to address it directly but diplomatically. You can highlight any relevant experiences or accomplishments that challenge the bias. Frame your responses in a way that focuses on your qualifications or strengths and how you can add value to the organisation,” advises Kevin.
Dane suggests staying calm and following these two recovery strategies:
💬 Address concerns head-on:
During the interview or meeting, proactively identify any reservations the other party may have and address them confidently. Provide concrete examples of your skills and experiences that contradict their initial impression. Prove them wrong with compelling evidence.
🧠 Showcase your growth mindset:
Demonstrate a willingness to learn, adapt, and grow. Share specific examples where you faced challenges, learned from them, and achieved success. Show that you are open to feedback and constantly striving to improve. Shift their focus from the initial impression to your potential.
“Remember, you possess the power to shape perceptions and challenge preconceived notions.”
🏆 Highlight your qualifications and achievements
“Clearly articulate your skills, experiences and achievements relevant to the position. Use specific examples to highlight how you can contribute and add value to the organisation. Provide concrete evidence of your accomplishments to support your claims,” says Kevin.
Dane agrees. She says, “Your resume is your secret weapon. Tailor it meticulously to the specific role, highlighting your relevant achievements and skills. Be concise, compelling, and relevant. Use the right keywords to catch the recruiter's attention. Show them you're the perfect fit for the role.”
👗 Dress professionally
“Make sure to dress appropriately for the interview. Your attire should align with either the industry or company culture or the position you are applying for. Dressing professionally shows respect and demonstrates that you take the opportunity seriously,” shares Kevin.
How important are first impressions in an interview? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below and/or in a post using #GetHiredAsia
Want to learn more about how you can prepare yourself to thrive in the workplace of the future? Keep an eye out for the next edition of the Get Hired Asia newsletter in two weeks’ time. Make sure you never miss an issue by subscribing here.
Reported and written by: Neha Jain Kale – LinkedIn News Editor covering jobs and career development in Asia.
Creator Manager: Alita Utari Dewi
Editor’s Note: Some quotes were edited for length and clarity.
To be attentive and cheerful for to be use the potential that gives a good points to the interviewers..
helpful content. Thanks
Thank you for
People connect with People. And Authenticity wins hearts. 💛
A. Fakhru`l-Razi