become podcast
Applying for a new role can be a daunting process. Our podcasts are here to make the process as seamless as possible, by providing you with the information and tools you need to land your next dream role. Hosted by our experienced Australia, Hong Kong and UK teams, we aim to help you stand out and showcase your ability and experience.
Listen to our latest podcast - the art of making a great first impression
Why is it important to make a good first impression?
When applying for that dream job you want to stand out from the crowd because hiring managers often will be receiving many applications. If you get invited and shortlisted for an interview, you really want to make a great first and lasting impression!
Admin/reception are not the ones making the decision but the chances are, the impression you leave with them, will rub off onto others and build a great reputation for yourself as a candidate. This is from a recruiters view point but it’s not different if you are going direct.
We share information internally, then externally with our clients. You want a positive image to be associated with you.
What are the most important things to remember if you want to make a good first impression?
Be polite and courteous – not aggressive or rude
Smile – this really resonates, even on the phone – they can feel it
Do your homework and know who you are talking to
Know the role you are applying for
Speak clearly and confidently
There are different ways of making a great first impression: through the phone, resume, email and face-to-face meetings.
On the phone...
Introduce yourself
Be polite, courteous and conversational
Be clear about what you want and give context
Treat every person you are talking to like they are the hiring manager – don’t assume they are junior or don’t matter
We know it can be frustrating looking for work but you have to treat every call like it’s your first
Be patient – we don’t always know the back story but will do our best to help with what info we have
Try to find a quiet spot – prepare for the call
If you have put effort into applying, you should put as much effort into the call
With your resume...
Refer back to our first episode about
Via e-mail...
Be clear. Remember that emails can be quite flat and we can’t get a feel for your personality
Remember to use a greeting in your email
Tell us what you want in the body of your email
If you are applying for specific role, know who you are addressing the email to. The consultant’s name should be on the advertisement
Keep it warm, brief and concise
Tell us why you are right for the position
Make sure your attachments are good to go and not too big
Email can often be a proxy for the cover letter and more likely to get read than a cover letter
Very good opportunity to capture the attention of the hiring manager or the consultant. There are a lot of emails coming every day – sell yourself well!
Don’t write war and peace – people are time poor these days – less is usually more
Face-to-Face...
Dress appropriately for the job that you want. Not always about being corporate
Make sure that your dress reflects your level and brand. How you are dressed will make an impact on what people think of you
Arrive on time – take a breath before you come in. It’s your responsibility to get there on time. Don’t come too early either!
Handshake – still amazingly important – rapport, connection – makes a big difference
Come through the doors with confidence and a smile
Remember to introduce yourself
Be open-minded about what options are put your way
Be nice to everybody and be kind and courteous
Find a connection with who you are meeting – small talk
Be prepared – portfolio, copy of resume, hard drive, laptop etc.
Remember to smile, your body language can have a first and lasting impression!
Check back to www.becomerecruitment.com/podcast to keep up to date with all the latest news and podcasts.