We all know that douche that won't pull his pants up. We all know that guy that won't look you in the eye when he talks, or the person that walks with such lack of confidence that they almost look like they're doing their best to hide from a judging eye.
Anyone come to mind? Could this be you?
First impressions are more important than most people think. The first thirty seconds of any interpersonal relationship can make or break a deal, earn or forfeit the job your interviewing for, maybe even lose out on the chance with that perfect girl.
Sometimes we get so caught up in impressing our peers that we don't really realize how others may be perceiving us. The trends that we follow can some times be so ridiculous and obscure that although we think it's OK, adults look at us as hoodlums. I know I'm probably going to get shit for saying that, but it's true. How adults perceive us is important. Adults have the resources to make our lives very easy, or very hard. Walking around with the "DGAF" attitude, is more that just immature, it's short sighted. I like to think of it as tunnel vision when teenagers think like this. Kids walk around like they don't care, when in reality, they do care. They care about what school they get into. They care about what job they get. They care about how much money they live to make.
When I conduct an interview a work, the first thirty seconds almost always determines your success. So although I may not be the most seasoned interviewer, I think I'm qualified to give a few pointers, that if applied should improve your chances of success, with friends, with work, with life in general.
Stand up straight - Fix that slouch, at least during the interview. We naturally make several assumptions about people who don't mind their posture. Slouching can make people seem lazy, insecure, and overall less confident. So take the time to mind your posture.
Look me in the eye - This has a disclaimer attached to it. It is pretty common knowledge that if you are trying to impress someone, you should act confident and look them in the eye. This is not a staring contest. It is easy to see when someone is uncomfortable and nervous while attempting to look someone else in the eye. I see this way too often. Either someone can't maintain eye contact, or stares you down like your an axe murderer.
Firm handshake - The keyword is firm. Do not offer me a dead fish hand. Dead fish hand is a deal breaker. Do not try to break my hand. Excessive squeezing is not going to impress me. All it communicates is that you have some sort of masculinity complex and are trying too hard. Keep it firm.
Maintain communication - Short answer can be very informative, but they do not communicate your personality. Anytime you're trying to make a first impression you should try to elaborate on your answers. I want to get to know who you are, not just the simple answer to the question I asked you. Not maintaining conversation puts a lack of self confidence on full display. If you are truly self confident, you will have no problem putting yourself out there a little bit.
Dress for success - Take care of your self. There is no reason to dress like a hoodlum. Your pants do not look better when sagging. You shirt does not look good wrinkled. Your fake gold chain does not make you look rich. Dress like an adult, get treated like an adult.
I hope these help! If someone came in to an interview with these traits, I would hire them immediately and probably try to be friends with them. People are drawn to confident people. These traits shouldn't just be a front for an interview. Take these tips and make them a part of who you are.
I like this one. Let me know what else to write!
Have any other tips and tricks for first impressions?
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