Make Yourself Stick With These First Impression Tips

Law firm internships start in just a few weeks. Part of mypreparation includes re-evaluating the first impression I give to people. Do Icome off as likable? Do I exude professionalism and charm?

The goal of every first impression is to stick to a person’sbrain. You want them to instantly like you and to keep thinking about you hoursor even days after your first met them. Here are few things we can all do gogive a killer first impression.

Dress to impress. You don’twant to walk into an interview looking like a slob. If you look sloppy, peoplewill assume you do sloppy work. Look neat and presentable. Also, dress soyou’ll fit in with the people who are interviewing you. For attorneys thatmeans conservative suits, white shirts, and ties. If your job is more creative,say like a graphic designer, dress so it looks like you’re creative. For greatclothing tips, watch TLC’s What Not To Wear.

Look fit. People are attracted to people in good physicalshape. If you’re out of shape, start heading to the gym everyday for 30 minutesof cardio and strength training. Also, quit eating junk and start eatinghealthy.

Give an impressive handshake.The first handshake is a key part in giving a good first impression.

Focus on speaking. Speakclearly and at a moderate pace. Work on varying your voice intonation. Youdon’t want to come off as a monotone bore. Also, speak the language of theperson interviewing you. Avoid slang and jargon not associated with the jobyou’re interviewing for. Use proper grammar and vocab that reflects a highereducation. If people can’t understand you, it’s hard for them to like you.

Use the person’s name. Usingthe interviewer’s name makes the conversation more personable. It also showsthat you were paying attention during introductions and that the other personwas important enough for you to memorize their name. However, avoid overusing aperson’s name. Too much name use is off putting because it sounds fake and alittle bit creepy.

Let the person know you’re listening.If it looks like you’re not listening, people will be turned off. Give subtlehints that you’re listening such as looking the person in the eye, nodding, andsaying an occasional “I see.” Also , ask questions about what someone had justsaid. It shows you’ve been paying attention and that you want to know moreabout what they’re saying. Finally, don’t interrupt.

Shine the spotlight on the other person.The secret to charm is directing attention away from you and on to the otherperson. Avoid blabbing about yourself and start asking questions about theother person. Great questions to ask in an interview include:

“How did you end up at (name of company)?”

“What drew you to (name of company)?

What do you like most about working at (name of company)?”

You’ll not only get key insights about your potentialemployer, but the questions also require the interviewer to talk aboutthemselves and people love talking about themselves.

What other things can we do to give a good first impression?Drop a comment and add to the conversation.