First Impressions

Nineteen years ago I went for an interview for a project manager position at Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston. The entire interview lasted ten minutes. My future boss asked me three questions and then he stood up, shook my hand, and thanked me for coming by. I was convinced I had blown the interview, but days later I was offered the job and my career in health care IT was launched.

Months later I asked my boss about the short interview. His explanation was simple-he sizes up people within a few minutes of meeting them. I was thankful I had made the cut.

After years of being on the other side of the desk, I have learned that first impressions definitely matter. The way you dress, carry yourself, answer and ask questions, even the way you sit in the chair--it all matters. Let me give you some examples of people who have blown first impressions with me:

-The guy who showed up for an informational interview in sweat pants. He explained that he was spending the day painting and didn't have a chance to change.

-The woman who spent ten minutes answering my first question. She would have gone on longer if I hadn't cut her off.

-The guy who started the interview by telling me about my problems and why he was the guy to fix them.

-The woman who spent time commenting on my shoes and hair.

-The woman who said her biggest challenge was anger management and then proceeded to tell me about the time she hit a co-worker.

You can't make this stuff up. Now, let me give you some suggestions on how to make a great first impression:

-Dress professionally. This doesn't mean you have to wear a designer suit, but it does mean that your clothes should be clean, coordinated and not revealing. Don't wear excessive jewelry or makeup. This is a job interview not a night out on the town.

-Shake my hand with confidence and make eye contact.

-Be respectful of my time. Show up on time and leave before a full hour is up. Thank me for taking the time to meet with you.

-Make sure your answers are complete but short. I will ask you to elaborate if I want to hear more.

-Do some research about the job and the company. Have a few questions ready to ask.

-Convey to me why you want this job.

-It is OK to jot down a few notes but don't write down everything I say. Remember this is a conversation not a lecture.

-Follow-up with a thank you note--handwritten, not email.

Making a first great impression is like everything else- it takes preparation and practice. Don't underestimate how important it is to get it right. You never know when it will turn into the beginning of something wonderful.

• Careers
• careers
• interviews