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How to Make a Great Impression

You have already heard that you never get a second chance to make a first impression. Now consider carefully the impact your behavior and attire will have in a recruiting setting. Recruiters and interviewers will draw the natural conclusion that you will put as much effort into representing their organizations as you put into representing yourself.

General Etiquette
Social and communication skills are a large part of what most employers are looking for in candidates, and the way you present yourself shows whether or not you will be taken seriously in professional settings. Basic etiquette is simply about being respectful and is a valuable advantage in any job or internship search. Follow these guidelines for a friendly, respectful and professional first impression.

• The most important thing to remember is to be courteous and thoughtful to the people around you, regardless of the situation. Don’t differentiate by position or standing within the organization.
• Always introduce yourself and make a note of other people’s names. Make small talk when appropriate, instead of simply firing questions one after the other. Talk a bit about your hobbies and ask questions about others. Avoid interrupting, but if you must, always apologize before doing so.
• Use a firm handshake, use good posture, make eye contact and smile.
• Repeat names of people when they introduce themselves. Then use their name in conversation.
• Avoid slang (words such as “like” and “whatever”). Often slang phrases are verbal crutches, and it can be hard to eliminate them from your professional speech.
• Dress professionally.
• Switch off cell phones or leave them at home.
• Avoid speaking about overly personal or private matters.
• Arrive early or on time.
• Prepare questions in advance.
• Push in your chair when getting up from a table.

Email etiquette
Emails pose unique challenges. They are a written medium, so you should approach email with the same seriousness as letters. Follow usual writing guidelines as a professional courtesy. Keep in mind that you are communicating with a person, not a computer and not your friends.

• Make the subject line of your email specific. When replying to a question, copy only the question into your reply, then provide your response. Always address and sign your emails.
• Don’t omit capitalization or type in all caps. Otherwise you may risk appearing too lazy to type properly.