itIt goes without saying now that an economic upturn isn’t exactly happening overnight. Unemployment is at 9.5% and news channels predict little hope of falling significantly. Plenty of people are out there interviewing for the same job you are… you have all the criteria for the job: the degree, the experience, the notable letters of recommendation – you enter the interview and within 10 seconds, regardless of what your resume says, regardless of how talented you are, regardless of who your dad knows – the person conducting the interview will make an impression of who you are and what you’re all about. ten seconds.

The person conducting the interview has eyes that have nerves that travel immediately to the brain and give it a thumbs up, or a thumbs down without you even saying good afternoon! It’s all about what you look like and how you carry yourself. Call it unfair – call it illegal…it’s often the way it is. The interviewer first and foremost is declaring to herself whether or not you can carry the “look” of the company for which you are interviewing. Obviously, the criteria for the job is experience and certain education, but this article is about the step that must happen: the physical meeting of two people in order to place a person in a job or internship.

On a side note, know this: each and every morning that you get yourself ready, walk out the door and carry yourself around south florida, you are representing more than just you. You represent your family, your family name! Your place of worship. Your sport. Your school. your industry. Your hobbies. Your neighborhood.  (Think refrigerator repair man ?)

Think about an outsider from Toledo driving around with their realtor – they get picked up from the airport, and enter the city of boca raton, the first person they see is you. You (at that moment) represent boca raton!! Obviously, it may not be legitimate, but it’s what they see…especially, if you look out of the ordinary. Or, if a new student transfers to a university, and the first person they see in the admission office is Joe – Joe [at that moment] represents that university – (Joe might have just stopped for directions!) but the point is, he may have had a pink Mohawk, he may wear his pants below your underwear, or, he may be in a gorgeous designer suit – it simply resonates on the Toledo-person’s first impression of who attends the university. I remember going to my very first Gymboree class with my daughter 14 years ago: all the moms were in tip top shape (looking more like tri-athletes rather than “new moms”) and I instantly thought how cool it was to be in the group of “new moms” – that little group of 12 women represented “new moms” to me…of course that may not be true everywhere. But, it doesn’t matter what’s true – it’s people’s perception of what’s true. At that moment, it was true to me!

Back to the interview. You need to know that if you want to get hired, one of the most important issues is looking like you already work there. Think about it, you’re the interviewer. Do you want to select an amazing image that looks even better than the company’s existing image, or someone who downgrades the company’s image? It’s not brain surgery. This generation has spoke with me frequently on the subject of unique identity…tattoos, piercings, low cut blouses to represent open sexuality, etc.. make a mental note of this: until you have your own company, you should not focus too much attention to your individual style – it’s about the style of the company of which you will work for ~

Bottom line: [obviously, below pertains to professional occupations]

Hair – freshly washed. Styled somewhat forward and towards the conservative side to fit your face. The look is clean.Bbody – Freshly scrubbed. Deodorant. I professionally advise against any scents other than soap. If the interviewer doesn’t like it, or has allergies – you’re doomed. Besides, this isn’t a date.

Make up – minimal. Clean clean clean. No sparkle no glitter no outlandish color. Face should glow. Lips should be moisturized [boys! Dry lips are not pretty to look at] girls, no heavy color on lips – it’s distracting and can get on your teeth [ew] present clean and neat fingernails – avoid crazy colors, lengths, or sparkles. Gentleman – same: clean & neat nails.

Jewels. – minimal. No clinking …minimal sparkle. Boys. Stick with a watch. Girls – avoid dangling anything – think neat and clean. Rings should only be on one or maximum two fingers – [ring fingers only!!] wearing a watch conveys you are aware of time…?

Clothing. –Do yourself a favor: invest in one dark suit [preferably solid] in a neutral color. They come in all price points – go to the mall [begin with department stores] and invest some time in trying on a few suits from a handful of different stores….you need to force yourself to do this to find the one that’s right for you! Concentrate on something fairly conservative and NOT TOO TIGHT and certainly not too loose! Take it to a tailor with the shoes you will wear.

Ladies – Under the suit can be a simple knit tank or short sleeve knit – referred to as an underpinning – it should be a piece that you should be able to wear solo without the jacket – no spaghetti straps! Don’t even think of showing cleavage no matter how well endowed you are – it’s construed as suggestive.The color should be bright but not neon. It should flatter your skin tone and hair. Blouses are great – but unfortunately, they’re sometimes hot, bulky and not easy to keep tucked in. personally, I wouldn’t want you to have the aggravation, but if you have the time to invest to find the perfect blouse – knock yourself out. Do not choose a sheer fabric. And stay clear of distracting patterns.

Boys – a white long button front shirt that isn’t too baggy and isn’t too tight. The hem on the sleeve should hit the bone that protrudes at the base of your thumb – too long suggests that your arms are too short or you were too lazy to get them tailored properly. Too short just doesn’t look handsome. French cuffs are a little over kill for a young man interviewing for his first job – but if the firm you’re approaching is high end – go for it. Your tie represents your professional confidence. Begin with a conservative pattern in a color that flatters your face and hair. I would strongly recommend silk and not knit. Know the double Windsor.

Hose – men. Match color of sock to trouser. Women. Nude Hosiery is optional – but it makes a really great impression. It screams how much you actually care. If you get a run in your hose, discard immediately.

Shoes. Gentlemen – choose a basic lace up or monkstrap – my preference is brown instead of black b/c it’s more versatile – get a belt to match [that is for suits not for jeans!] ladies. avoid open back shoe[goes under pant hems, and too casual with skirts]. Also avoid overly open front – minimally expose toes. Pumps are usually best. Also, take it easy on the heels – definitely wear high if possible, but make damn certain you can walk effortlessly [stripper stilettos are inappropriate].

Briefcase – minimal. Sleek. Clean. Houses your resume, copies of letters of recommendation, a book you may need while in waiting room. Cell phone [which of course is off-even a vibration should be avoided] and tissues – you never know!

Ladies. The purse you carry shouldn’t dominate your outfit. Nor should it appear to be more like a tote, or evening bag. It shouldn’t have excessive hardware, logos or details./ think clean and neat. – remember it represents you. The professional side of you!

Lastly. the single most important aspect of wearing clothes: posture! Walk and sit with confidence. No leaning back – sit up straight.

Important advice. On a blank sheet of paper, in black magic marker, write out this short list. Three words – grace. Class. Integrity. Study their definitions and start your engines. Your life is about to begin – get yourself on the right track. Store this short list in the inner pocket of your briefcase. observe the list just before you enter any interview. You rock.

Tashia Rahl is our new Style Editor ~ You can contact Tashia via email – tashia (at) theHLNcompany.com or call her voicemail 561.573.9003 ..for more insight on “the process” of being well dressed, check out the company web-site – [turn up the volume!]

All businesses must keep up with technology and know the impact of global competition, fluctuating business cycles, and shifting demographics to make necessary organizational changes. Businesses like people must understand the new language of communication and learn how to translate their value to customers, stakeholders and partners. To not change and acquire new skills is to have their head in the sand and they will surely disappear. In this new economy, people like businesses, must change, learn new skills, adapt or they will disappear.

People who are rigid and inflexible and opposed to change, people who believe they can’t or won’t learn anything new are the ones having a more difficult time during this recession, as they are not willing to reinvent, reeducate or relocate. Individuals who understand that change is an evitable part of life and that they must continually reinvent and remarket themselves and remain open and flexible, are the ones who are a lot more successful during economic hardship. They work part-time jobs, volunteer, write articles, and continually market themselves to expand their personal brand and make new connections. People must act like free- entrepreneurs, building a portfolio of skills and accomplishments they can use to negotiate the next job — whether with a new employer or the same one (White, J. 1999).

In this new interviewing paradigm, knowledge is king and knowledge creates transformative power. Possessing the right information and presenting it in the right way, gives interviewees the power to get any job! To go on any job interview without understanding what you should say and how you should look when you say it, is setting yourself up for a disappointing outcome. In business you must match the medium to the message. You must do the same when interviewing. There are certain things you must say to enhance your image as a strong, effective candidate and because people communicate as much nonverbally as they do verbally, there are several things you can do nonverbally that will enhance your image.

To communicate your leadership potential nonverbally:

Stand and sit using an erect posture. Avoid slouching as it makes you look tired, sloppy and unprofessional.

When confronted, stand up straight. Do not cower.

Nod your head to show that you are listening to someone talk.

Maintain eye contact and smile at those with whom you are talking.

Use had gestures in a relaxed, non mechanical way.

Do not frown or look confused or angry when listening to someone talk.

Always be neat, well groomed and wear appropriately fitting clothes, not too tight or big.

Don’t wear strong cologne or perfume or too much makeup.

Judgment is made within the first 30 seconds of the interview; it may not be fair, but that’s how long it takes the interviewer to size you up. When you walk in the door have a smile on your face, stand tall and look directly in the interviewer’s eyes, hold their gaze and tell them how absolutely enthusiastic you are about the position. Having up-to-date information about the company and interviewer and presenting it with the right technique, gives you the upper hand in the interview process. Managers size up how a candidate will perform in the new role by evaluating how much effort he or she put into preparing for the interview. If you’re in charge, you want someone who has taken the time to think about how to help the business. Women have lots of great ideas and power but lack confidence; men are overly confident and don’t adequately prepare. Preparation, research and knowing your target, the interviewer, will give you the right mix of confidence and preparation needed to secure the deal.

To learn what to say and how to say it long BEFORE your next job interview, contact me at 404 567-5790 or visit my website www.dgsconsultingllc.com to purchase ‘Yes You Can Still Find a Job – The Gold Standard of Job Interviewing’ on audio CD or digital podcast for less than $20 bucks. In this economy, it’s the best deal in town. To read more career tips visit my blog: http://askdickie.dgsconsultingllc.com.

Please let me know how I may be of service.

Sincerely,

Dickie Sykes

White, J. (1999). The wall street journal millennium (A Special Report): Industry & Economics — The company we’ll keep: corporations aren’t going to disappear; but they’re going to look a lot different. Wall Street Journal (Eastern Edition), p. R, 36:1. Retrieved July 15, 2010, from ABI/INFORM Global. (Document ID: 47568263).

By Mary Gormandy White

Are you concerned about the impact the economy may have on your professional life? Whether you own your own business or you work as an employee or independent contractor, the fact is that you can take proactive steps to position yourself for success no matter what is going on in the economy. After all, each of us is responsible for our own success. Regardless of what is going on in the world around us, it’s up to us to be proactive in making sure that we are prepared for success – for today and tomorrow. Even though you might not be able to control what is going on in the world around you, it is a fact that you are responsible for getting prepared to deal with whatever tomorrow brings.

There are steps that every professional can take that can have a positive impact career success. The precise things you need to do will vary based on what type of work you do ant the industry you work in. The key to making your career as recession proof as possible lies with being proactive. Don’t wait for something bad to happen to start thinking about what you can do to prove yourself invaluable to your customers or your employer. Take a hard look at your job and your profession and make some tough decisions about what changes you can make now that are likely to position you for long term success – difficult economy or not.

4 Ideas to Recession Proof Your Career

1. Differentiate Yourself with Customer Service – The only thing that truly makes any organization unique is the service provided to customers. After all, competitors can copy any company’s products, services, and prices. What they cannot duplicate is your people and the level of service they provide – good or bad. When times are tough, customers know they can afford to be picky, and they are more likely than ever to choose to work with people and companies that have a culture of outstanding service. Whether you are an entrepreneur or if you want to demonstrate to your manager that you are an essential asset to the company, focusing on improving your customer service skills is essential to success in a difficult economy.

2. Take Your Professional Skills to the Next Level – The more skilled you are, the more efficiently and effectively you’ll be able to perform your job. By taking the time to learn new skills and improve the ones that you have, you’ll be on your way to positioning yourself as an invaluable asset to your customers and to your organization. For example, if your job requires working with compute applications, work on perfecting the skills necessary to do the types of tasks you need to perform. Learn to use new software applications or take your skills to the next level with the programs you currently use. Or, if you are a sales professional, learn how to apply proven consultative selling techniques to build relationships and improve results. No matter how experienced you are, you can always improve your performance through professional development.

3. Prove Your Skills with a Professional Certification Credential – When times are tough, employers and prospective customers are less willing to take chances when choosing hiring employees or selecting service providers. That’s why professional certifications have become so important. There is no better time than right now to begin the process of earning a recognized professional certification credential that can set you apart from others in your field. Whether you work in information technology, human resource management, healthcare, or any other occupation, earning a recognized professional certification credential can be a great way to differentiate yourself from others who have similar skills and backgrounds.

4. Build a Solid Professional Network – There is truth to the notion that “who you know” can have a significant impact on professional success. Whether you are in the market for a new job or you need excellent references to help yourself land a new account, having a solid professional network can be the key to success. The key to networking success lies with taking the time to build a network of other professionals that you can assist, and who may also be willing and able to help you in return. There are many ways to approach the process of build an effective professional network. Consider joining and becoming active in local chapters of professional organizations relevant to your field, attend activities hosted by your local Chamber of Commerce, or sponsor an event that benefits your community. You’ll have an opportunity to get to know and make a positive impression on many people.

The Next Step is Up to You

While it’s true that the current economic environment poses a unique challenge, it’s up to you to remain focused on professional success. Each of us has a choice – while you can’t choose what the economy is like, you can decide how it impacts you. You can sit back and whine and complain, or you can decide to take positive action that can keep you moving forward. That’s your decision to make. Ask yourself which course of action is more likely to help you “recession-proof” your career. After all, the only person’s behavior you can control is your own.

About the Author

Mary Gormandy White, M.A., SPHR is the Training Coordinator for Mobile Technical Institute & MTI Business Solutions (http://www.mobiletechwebsite.com), where she specializes in human resources, management, and marketing training. She teaches open enrollment classes for MTI, provides on-site corporate training, and frequently speaks at conferences and association meetings. She is also the author of 101 Successful PR Campaign Tips and 101 Human Resource Management Tips in the LifeTips book series. MTI provides a variety of consulting services, including IT Training, certification testing, resume writing, HR & PR consulting, custom database development and website solutions. For daily professional development tips, follow MTI on Twitter (MTI_Training).

Recent studies prove what most female executives have long suspected. We are strong leaders, effective job creators and solid financial performers; and the numbers are beginning to show that we generate better results than our male counterparts across all stages of the corporate lifecycle.

As small business owners, we are significant contributors to the country’s economic engine. Women own 38% of all businesses in the U.S.—that’s nine million women-owned businesses that employ 27.5 million people and produce $3.6 trillion in revenue. Yes, TRILLION.

Women are also efficient and effective leaders of emerging companies. A 2007 study of venture capital-backed firms showed that companies led by female CEO’s delivered an average of 12% higher revenues using one-third less committed capital than those led by men.

At the upper end of the spectrum, studies of large corporations continually demonstrate that there is a strong correlation between shareholder return and a higher proportion of women executives. In fact, according to the non-profit organization, Catalyst, big companies with the greatest number of female board members, on average, have significantly better financial performance than those with fewer women. In return on equity, companies with the highest percentages of female board members outperformed those with the least by 53%. In return on sales, the companies with more female board directors outperformed by 42% and in return on invested capital, by 66%. That’s a stunning difference!

Yet, against this backdrop of solid financial performance, we still have a U.S. economy where over 14 million people are out of work (at a real cost of $120 billion paid out unemployment benefits last year!). With unemployment rates hovering just below 10%, the near-term future doesn’t look much brighter.

Solving such a complex economic recession is no easy task. But it’s hard to ignore the hard numbers that demonstrate the strong financial performance of women-owned and women-led firms. Companies need more women at the top.

Women have been in mainstream business for 30 years, but we are woefully under-represented no matter how you slice the numbers. Women still make up less than 16 percent of the corporate officers in America’s 500 largest companies. In fact, there are only 15 women CEOs in the Fortune 500. Women compose only 13.6% of board directors and hold only 7.9% of the highest titles in corporations. And women are only 5.2% of the top earners (not to mention the 20% less income we make as compared to our equivalent male counterparts).

The typical arguments for why companies need more female leaders tend to revolve around soft-sell arguments – accessing a bigger talent pool, investing in diversity, reflecting the customer base, bringing diverse viewpoints and skill sets. For many public companies, “doing the right thing” has driven initial forays into recruiting more female leadership talent.

All of these viewpoints are correct – women do tend to bring a different set of skills and a unique perspective to the table. But the numbers themselves prove out, and we should be confident enough to let them speak for themselves. Setting aside the traditional arguments for “gender equity,” it just makes sound financial sense to put more women at the top.

Donna Harris is Vice Chair and Chief Marketing Officer of the Interpoint Group, a Washington, DC based business management firm that offers an integrated suite of government market sales, federal/state/local government relations and public affairs.   She is also a member of Interpoint Group’s Board of Directors, a Partner in the firm and a member of the senior management committee. See www.interpointgroup.com

Are you concerned about the impact the economy may have on your professional life? Whether you own your own business or you work as an employee or independent contractor, the fact is that you can take proactive steps to position yourself for success no matter what is going on in the economy. After all, each of us is responsible for our own success. Regardless of what is going on in the world around us, it’s up to us to be proactive in making sure that we are prepared for success – for today and tomorrow. Even though you might not be able to control what is going on in the world around you, it is a fact that you are responsible for getting prepared to deal with whatever tomorrow brings.

There are steps that every professional can take that can have a positive impact career success. The precise things you need to do will vary based on what type of work you do ant the industry you work in. The key to making your career as recession proof as possible lies with being proactive. Don’t wait for something bad to happen to start thinking about what you can do to prove yourself invaluable to your customers or your employer. Take a hard look at your job and your profession and make some tough decisions about what changes you can make now that are likely to position you for long term success – difficult economy or not.

4 Ideas to Recession Proof Your Career

1. Differentiate Yourself with Customer Service – The only thing that truly makes any organization unique is the service provided to customers. After all, competitors can copy any company’s products, services, and prices. What they cannot duplicate is your people and the level of service they provide – good or bad. When times are tough, customers know they can afford to be picky, and they are more likely than ever to choose to work with people and companies that have a culture of outstanding service. Whether you are an entrepreneur or if you want to demonstrate to your manager that you are an essential asset to the company, focusing on improving your customer service skills is essential to success in a difficult economy.

2. Take Your Professional Skills to the Next Level – The more skilled you are, the more efficiently and effectively you’ll be able to perform your job. By taking the time to learn new skills and improve the ones that you have, you’ll be on your way to positioning yourself as an invaluable asset to your customers and to your organization. For example, if your job requires working with compute applications, work on perfecting the skills necessary to do the types of tasks you need to perform. Learn to use new software applications or take your skills to the next level with the programs you currently use. Or, if you are a sales professional, learn how to apply proven consultative selling techniques to build relationships and improve results. No matter how experienced you are, you can always improve your performance through professional development.

3. Prove Your Skills with a Professional Certification Credential – When times are tough, employers and prospective customers are less willing to take chances when choosing hiring employees or selecting service providers. That’s why professional certifications have become so important. There is no better time than right now to begin the process of earning a recognized professional certification credential that can set you apart from others in your field. Whether you work in information technology, human resource management, healthcare, or any other occupation, earning a recognized professional certification credential can be a great way to differentiate yourself from others who have similar skills and backgrounds.

4. Build a Solid Professional Network – There is truth to the notion that “who you know” can have a significant impact on professional success. Whether you are in the market for a new job or you need excellent references to help yourself land a new account, having a solid professional network can be the key to success. The key to networking success lies with taking the time to build a network of other professionals that you can assist, and who may also be willing and able to help you in return. There are many ways to approach the process of build an effective professional network. Consider joining and becoming active in local chapters of professional organizations relevant to your field, attend activities hosted by your local Chamber of Commerce, or sponsor an event that benefits your community. You’ll have an opportunity to get to know and make a positive impression on many people.

The Next Step is Up to You

While it’s true that the current economic environment poses a unique challenge, it’s up to you to remain focused on professional success. Each of us has a choice – while you can’t choose what the economy is like, you can decide how it impacts you. You can sit back and whine and complain, or you can decide to take positive action that can keep you moving forward. That’s your decision to make. Ask yourself which course of action is more likely to help you “recession-proof” your career. After all, the only person’s behavior you can control is your own.

About the Author: Mary Gormandy White, M.A., SPHR is the Training Coordinator for Mobile Technical Institute & MTI Business Solutions, where she specializes in human resources, management, and marketing training. She teaches open enrollment classes for MTI, provides on-site corporate training, and frequently speaks at conferences and association meetings. She is also the author of 101 Successful PR Campaign Tips and 101 Human Resource Management Tips in the LifeTips book series. MTI provides a variety of consulting services, including IT Training, certification testing, resume writing, HR & PR consulting, custom database development and website solutions. For daily professional development tips, follow MTI on Twitter (MTI_Training).

Think it’s entertaining to watch MTV’s “Pimp My Ride” turn a beater car into a showpiece? Imagine seeing a 10 x 10-foot cubicle transformed into a vehicle for productivity and advancement! Better yet, try it out for yourself. Here are nine easy and affordable ways to make over your cube and improve your image and outlook at work:

1. Place Yourself in a Position of Power

According to feng shui expert Karen Rauch, author of Move Your Stuff, Change Your Life, the most important thing you can do is place yourself in an empowered position. If you cannot see the entrance of your cubicle while working at your desk, place a mirror somewhere in front of you so that you can see the reflection of the opening.

2. Look Organized and Productive

Keep things generally neat and clean. Organize your current projects into files and keep them in vertical file holders on your desk. Office supply and specialty catalogues have a variety of fun, funky and functional organizing accessories. Find ones that fit your personality.

Put any supplies or files you don’t use daily inside your desk or credenza to reduce visual distraction. If you are hanging on to old invoices or other records, see if you can get them out of your workspace, into a central filing or storage area. The key is to look busy, capable and in control. The only thing worse than too messy an office is too clean a desktop — which may indicate you don’t have enough to do, or worse yet, aren’t needed.

3. Add Plants

Plants brighten up any office. Not only do they project energy and life, they also soak up indoor air pollutants. A Washington State University study even showed that plants help reduce stress, increase productivity and improve attentiveness. Design experts suggest using an odd number of plants. And of course, before choosing a plant, consider the amount of available light in your workspace. According to the experts at Leichardt Garden Center, the best plants for cubicles with no direct sunlight are: Rhoeo or Moses in a Cradle, Pothos, Corn Plant, Pepperomia, Boston Fern and the Peace Lily.

4. Brighten Up

Good lighting alleviates eyestrain, increases energy and brightens your mood. If you are working under fluorescent lighting, see if you can replace the tubes with healthier full spectrum ones (also called “grow lights”) you can buy at the hardware store. And because working solely with overhead light is uncomfortable for the eyes, add a desk or table lamp.

an added bonus: Leaving your extra lighting on will send the signal to your boss that you’re hard at work — even if you’re not at your desk. From brightly colored contemporary styles to classic brass or silver tones, you can find an appropriate and affordable lamp to fit any cube configuration.

5. Bring the Outside In

Most cubes don’t have windows, but don’t let that stop you from gazing at your favorite scenery. Many art print and home decorating sources offer “window scapes” that use trompe l’oeil techniques to create realistic outdoor views.

6. Avoid Kitsch

Leave the stuffed animals and crafts for your bedroom. Always keep in mind that you are at work. A few bold accessories, like a decorative vase, paperweight or framed print can express your personal style. Even though it’s your cubicle, it is still a workspace and place of employment, so you want to project professionalism and good taste.

7. Shun the Offensive

Along the same lines, be careful that the any posters, signs or cartoons you display and even the screensaver you choose are consistent with the values of your company, and will not be seen as sexist or distasteful or cause others discomfort. For instance, if you’re striving for a tropical theme, look for tropical fish and waterfront scenes, not swimsuit-clad bodybuilders or bathing beauties.

8. Picture This

One of the best ways to add a personal touch or conversation starter to your area is with framed pictures of your family, friends or pets. But before you bring in your photos, consider how they reflect on your professional image. Avoid shots that show you and your buddies drinking or any intimate photos. The best photos are candid ones that show joy and spontaneity. Good choices include photos of you and your loved ones at a favorite vacation spot or engaged in a sport. Anything showing water, nature or your pets can bring energy into your workspace, while also giving you an emotional boost.

9. Add Soothing Accessories

Placing a small bowl of potpourri or aromatherapy petals or sachets can transform your emotions or invigorate your senses. If your co-workers have sensitive noses, there’s even aromatherapy for your desktop — downloadable wallpaper with scenes of lavender and sunflowers (unscented, of course)! Desk-sized feng shui fountains can keep your stress levels down and help harmonize your work world.

Following these tips will make you more comfortable on the job and may even land you that corner office with a view.

Kate Lorenz is the article and advice editor for CareerBuilder.com. She researches and writes about job search strategy, career management, hiring trends and workplace issues. Other writers contributed to this article. ©CareerBuilder, LLC (reprinted with permission)

Slouching is out! It’s about demonstrating confidence – standing straight, making eye contact, and connecting with a good, firm handshake. That first impression can be a great beginning, or a quick ending to your interview.

Body movement or lack of Once the interview begins you should be relaxed, use your hands in talking – most people do. Do not overdo anything! Small gestures with your hands in fine but when you start waving your arms around you are out-of-bounds and could strike out. On the other hand the worst posture is to fold your arms across your chest. This is a hostile posture – very closed. Sometimes women fold their arms this way because they are cold. Wear a sweater or jacket – but don’t fold your arms over your chest.

Contact – The Hand Shake

The handshake is the first contact you will have with the interviewer. It’s often looked at as a telling gesture to judge the confidence of a person.

The interviewer extends his hand and you in turn extend your hand. If your hand is sweaty it will give an unpleasant feeling to the interchange.

Image – Attire

You are judged by how you look! Whether we like it or not – how you look – your general appearance – does set the impression for the rest of the interview. This is going to take some research on your part. You can call the HR Department or even the Receptionist to ask about the company dress code. If the answer is “Casual,” you should think one level above to “Business Casual.” A good rule to follow is: “Dress One Level Above the Company Culture.”

There is something else to take into consideration and that is the position that you are seeking. The idea is to look like someone who will fit in, but someone who could also represent the company to people outside the company.

Eye Contact

True – or – False?

You should not look directly into the interviewers eyes as this may make him or her feel uncomfortable.

This is FALSE.

If you don’t look directly into the eyes of the interviewer it can be judged as a lack of confidence. When you talk to someone and your eyes are looking in another direction, the person feels as though you are not talking to them directly.

It may feel very uncomfortable for you to look directly into someone’s eyes but you need to look at the person while you talk. This doesn’t mean staring, but looking directly at the person you are addressing.

A tip to use that is taken from the people on tv who use “teleprompters.” They are looking at the teleprompter and reading their lines but it looks as though they are looking straight at the camera.

Smells

It is important not to smell – Good or Bad – during the interview!

If you smell bad – breath or body odor – that could be disastrous! Most people know that. But did you know that it could be equally disastrous to smell too good?

Colognes and Perfumes are great offenders to someone who cannot tolerate scents. Allergies or personal memories or preferences about scents can come into play during the interview and can be very distracting.

Ears

If you thought interviewing was only about answering questions, you’ve been missing the point. You’ve also been missing an opportunity to gather valuable information. Listening is one of the skills most underutilized by candidates. Most people go into the interview thinking and worrying about how they will answer the questions. They forget that they are there to find out about the job and the company and whether this is the right place for them.

The bonus of listening is that you impress the interviewer by the fact that you have heard what was said, and sometimes what was not said. The best questions you can ask come as a result of listening. Turn up your listening and intuitive skills. Read between the lines!

Demeanor – Confidence

One of the most important factors a candidate can bring to the interview is self-confidence.

When you stand tall and look the interviewer in the eye while you give a firm handshake you will make an immediate good first impression.

In today’s competitive job market it is worth taking some time to think about the impression you are making. Will you stand out from the competition with your confidence and demeanor? If not –take the time to make some changes.

Carole Martin, America’s #1 Interview Coach has specialized in the subject of “Interviewing” for the past 15 years and has coached and interviewed thousands of job seekers to successfully get the job. Pick up her Interview Questions and Answers Guide (www.interviewcoach.com/answer-guide) and stop by The Interview Coach (www.interviewcoach.com/services.html) to Ask for a FREE Interview Analysis for more personalized interview coaching.