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Making a Lasting First Impression in Modesto California

Actor Will Rogers was spot on with this quote: “You never get a second chance to make a Modesto Interview Tipsgood first impression.” 

And as noted by Forbes magazine, it takes just seven seconds for a person to develop their first impression of you. So when preparing for a job interview, your goal is to make an immediate positive impact.

Analyze the Job
Use the job description, posting and related information to list the skills, knowledge base, and qualities required for the job. Then, list your own assets and match them to these requirements.   

  • Prepare compelling talking points pinpointing situations where you effectively utilized your qualifications. Be prepared to show that you’re the best candidate for the job, based on these success stories.
  • Capitalize on your credentials. Be sure to mention accreditations, certifications, courses of study and related accomplishments.   
  • Be honest. Don’t say you know how to do something when you don’t. If you lack required education or skills, the company may be willing to train you. And if not, it will probably be better to pass on the job or you may risk losing it – along with your credibility.

Dress for Success
The last thing you want during your interview is a wardrobe malfunction. And a key part of fitting into a company and its culture is your appearance.

  • Check out the company dress code. Make this part of your pre-interview research. Then, make your attire just slightly dressier. If the normal work attire is casual, think business casual. If the norm is business casual, then kick it up a notch and wear a conservative suit.
  • Do a head-to-toe “mirror check.”  Be sure your hair is clean and professionally groomed. Minimize perfume or cologne and wear only conservative jewelry. Nails neatly trimmed or manicured? Shoes shined? Everything ironed? No strings, missing buttons or pet hairs? Check, check, and check again. Remember, when you look good, you feel good.
  • Bring your stuff. This means your portfolio, extra copies of your resume, and a notepad. It’s perfectly fine to take notes during an interview; in fact, it further emphasizes your interest in the position.

Be Your Best  
Zero Hour has arrived. Like the premier of a play, the curtain is about to open. It’s time to get into character and nail your Best Interviewee nomination.

  • Respect the front desk. Act as if anything you say or do in front of the receptionist or security staff will get back to your interviewer – because it will.
  • Rev up your mind. Take a few minutes to review your talking points, so you can function at 100 percent the minute your interview begins. A lag of even two or three minutes is too long; your interviewer has already formed an opinion.
  • Mind your body language. Use a firm handshake with everyone you meet. Maintain eye contact and keep hand gestures to a minimum. Speak clearly and at a moderate pace. Relax and smile – like you mean it. After all, this could be the start of something big!

You’ve made it this far – and with the right preparation, you can snatch the brass ring and make the job yours. For further job search guidance, contact PrideStaff Modesto and speak with one of our expert career coaches today.

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