If you seek an executive position, look the part

Interview series

It is a documented fact that you have 7 seconds for the interviewer to decide if they like you and 30 seconds to decide if they want to hear what you have to say.

When does your interview really start? The interview starts with their first impression of you. It may be your cover letter, resume or the package in which you present your resume and cover letter.

When it is time for the physical interview, you are the package.

Today you will receive the 3 keys to crafting a message which draws employers and initially HR personnel to you rather than pushing them away. If you do not make it past the HR gate keeper, you are left sitting in the waiting room.

Mentally trade places with the interviewer. What position are you seeking? Look at yourself through the interviewer’s eyes. Dress up a notch above the expectation of the ideal attire for the position. Unless you are Steve Jobs, you are not going to make your best impression is a black t shirt, jeans and tennis shoes. Dressing up honors the company and position and says, “This is your company image. Your employees represent your company.” It is an old adage, “You never get a second chance to make a first impression.” (Some credit Oscar Wilde, others credit William Safire in his NY Times “On Language” and others say it was in a 1966 advertising campaign.) Why is this important? If you ever state a statistic or quotation, be prepared to document the source. Crediting the source makes you look well read, well researched and honest. Not crediting could make them doubt other statements in your resume or interview.

Just as you are observing them, they are observing you. I lived in Steamboat for 29 years and dressed up was clean jeans and formal was new jeans. Unless you are applying for a housekeeping or maintenance job, under dressing devalues the position and the company. Not saying to dress frumpy or blah but a nice suit or dress with a splash of color at the throat draws attention to your face and words. Dark colors minimize the body and draw attention up to your smile, eyes and words. No dangly, bangly earrings, guys.

Someone walked into my office recently and their pants were frayed at the hem on the back. Another lady walked in with shoes which were in need of polish or repair on the back of the heel.

Appear relaxed, confident, well groomed and focused on the benefit to them. They are Not hiring you. They are hiring the result you will bring to them. They are hiring the results which benefit them and the company.

Do you have a smart phone? In our fast paced world, our communications are increasingly on our smart phones. You may use it for your email, calendar, gps, and you may even use it for a phone. Are you connecting or merely communicating?

You only have to connect with an interviewer if you want them to remember you and what you said.

Connecting is key.

For more information on debriefing, stay tuned to www.Elaine4Success.com. Also inquire about hiring Elaine Love for your next sales training, executive meeting or personal growth presentation coaching. Go to www.Elaine4Success.com/Contact or www.MeetElaineLove.com.