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Make a Positive Impression
Recommendations from Youth
| Do's |
Don'ts |
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Introduce yourself
Shake hands
Be polite and respectful
Use eye contact
Check your breath
Say Please and Thank You
Be on time
Learn about the job you're applying for
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Bring a friend
Eat or chew gum
Be late
Wear torn or dirty clothes
Wear clothes that are revealing
Wear clothes that are too small or too baggy
Mumble
Fiddle with things in your hands
Don't smoke 30 minutes beforehand
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And Another thing!
| Your Image! |
While it's important to be your authentic self, it's equally important to present a clean, professional image! Avoid wearing clothes that are torn, and that don't fit right. They should be clean and ironed if necessary. It's also important to dress appropriately for the job. For example, it's not wise to wear a suit to an interview at a garage, or coveralls to an interview at a restaurant. Think about the image you want your interviewer to see. While it's important to be your authentic self, there are certain expectations in the work field. You will need to find a balance between your authentic self and how you wish to present yourself professionally. Are you more invested in presenting your authentic self, or is getting that job more important. There are often situations that require you to compromise. |
| Speak Up! |
Speak clearly- When you speak to your interviewer, use appropriate language, speak slowly and clearly. Don't just blurt things out, rather, pause and think about what you are going to say and speak loud enough to be heard. Avoid using filler words like um, so, and you know. Using respectful language lets your interviewer know that you can be professional when you need to be. Also avoid saying I don't know. Think of the best answer that you have . . . Anything is better than nothing. |
| Don't waste people's time! |
Show up on time- better yet, show up a few minutes early. Allow an extra 15 minutes time when going to an interview. You are sure to avoid being late for reasons like the following: traffic, running into old friends, getting lost, and needing the bathroom. Being on time to an interview indicates that you are dependable (a quality sought by employers.) And if you cannot be there on time, call and let the interviewer know. |
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