When viewing resumes, statistics show it only takes hiring managers a few seconds to know whether a candidate is someone they want to talk to about an open position. First impressions are also critical when you, the candidate, reach the interviewing stage. But even beyond that first impression, checking off more items on our list below will help you set yourself ahead of any competition for that job you really want.
Here are our top six tips for really impressing the interviewer.
Research the company you’re interviewing with, check out the LinkedIn profiles of the people you’ll be speaking with, and check out their social media pages! Not only will this give you some insight into the company and its services, but it will also give you a preview of the culture, customer satisfaction, and give you nuggets to throw into the interview to impress the interviewer.
This is pretty basic, but the key here is to not under dress. Honestly, it is rare we hear of candidates really dressing up for interviews, but when they do, it really shows the interviewer that the candidates is invested in the position and the hiring process. In general, think business casual for a restoration or flooring position, whether it’s technician or operations manager level.
It can be so hard to be truly present during a conversation in the age of smartphones. Our attention spans are shorter than ever, and showing any kind of disinterest can quickly remove you from the running for the new position. Being engaged doesn’t have to be a complex thought. Think about making sure to smile, make eye contact, and take notes.
Don’t be an actor or someone you’re not. That doesn’t do the company with which you’re interviewing any good and doesn’t do you any good. Even if you fake it, and get the job, it doesn’t take companies long to see someone’s true colors if you managed to fool them during the interview process.
There are a lot of ways you could overshare, but we first and foremost want to caution you against oversharing about the negatives of your previous positions. When it comes to being unhappy with a previous position, it is best to find a brief and diplomatic way to state why you are leaving and leave it at that.
This is a big way to really show your professionalism and be memorable! A quick email thanking the hiring manager or interviewer for their time will go a long way. Be clear! Say what you enjoyed about the interview, what has impressed you about the company, and let them know you want the job!