7 Ways to Make A Good First Impression with a Recruiter
When preparing to talk with a recruiter, you can take steps to impress them from the moment you walk into the office. A good first impression can be the first step to show a recruiter that you will be a reliable and presentable employee.
If you are coming in for a scheduled interview or stopping in to apply for a job at WFQ, here are 7 things that our recruiters have noted leave a good impression.
1. Dress Presentably
When you come to the interview dressed clean and presentable, it positively reassures the recruiter that you are professional, reliable and interested in the position.
If you are dressed sloppy, you may risk give off the impression that you don’t care. However, if you dress the part (appropriate to the position you are applying for), you are showing that you take your job seriously.
2. Arrive on Time
If you arrive on time (or even a few minutes early), you are already showing that you can be a reliable worker. You don’t want to give off the wrong impression – if you don’t show up to the interview on time, the recruiter may have doubts for whether or not you will show up to work on time daily.
To avoid any mishaps, map out how long it will take you to get to the recruiter’s offices the night before. Double check your interview time, get a good night’s sleep, and set alarms for getting ready/leaving. If something unexpected happens, be sure to call the recruiter as soon as you can.
If you don’t have an interviewed scheduled and are stopping by for job fair or to drop off an application, make sure to double check what hours the recruiter’s office is open.
3. Bring Everything You Need
Make sure you have checked everything before heading out for your interview. Did the recruiter ask you to bring anything? Do you have extra copies of your resume?
Once you’ve ensured you have everything you need, keep your documents organized and presentable. Grabbing out a balled-up resume from the bottom of your bag can leave the recruiter wondering if you are organized.
4. Be Kind and Confident
Be kind from the moment you walk through the door to the end of the interview. People will notice when you treat everyone well and extend the first handshake.
5. Show Your Interest
The recruiter wants to see your interest before they hire you. Indicate your interest throughout the interview and show enthusiasm when you are talking.
One good way to show your interest is by asking questions (plus questions help you determine if the job is a good fit for you). Prepare a list of questions to ask about the organization, your role and the next steps.
You can also send a follow-up email after the interview to thank the recruiter for their time and reiterate your interest.
6. Minimize Anything that May Be Distracting
Try to keep activities that may distract you or your recruiter to a minimum.
Go over a mental checklist with yourself – Is your phone turned off or to silent? Can you spit out your gum? Are you constantly checking the clock?
7. Come Prepared to Talk about Yourself
Your recruiter wants to find out what type of person and worker you are to see if you would be the right fit. Come prepared to talk about previous experiences, your work ethic and goals.
Don’t have any previous work experience? No worries! There are many positions where you don’t need prior work experience. Check out our blog post with tips for those who are looking to get their first job.
Why is Making A Good Impression Important?
With a good attitude and a little preparation, making a good impression may help you get closer to landing your next job. Although these tips won’t guarantee a job offer, it will help you appear more confident and professional for your next interview.
If you are interested in learning more about our general labor and skilled trade job opportunities in Metro-Detroit, stop in our office Monday – Friday from 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM at 5751 S Sheldon Road, Canton, MI 48188 or apply online on our job board.