Center for Career ServicesSouthern Connecticut State University

SayOne’s ability to make a good impression

based on verbal and nonverbal messages

In Order to Prepare…Practice Practice Practice!Utilize special Career Services tools such as:

The Perfect InterviewOne on one role-play with a career counselor

Research the companyDevelop and organize your thoughts before

you speak

Consider…Saying why you are the best!

Use success stories for emphasisBe convincing

Remember your audienceNo slangNo inappropriate disclosure

Being yourself!Being comfortable enough to

ask for clarifications

WearOne’s ability to dress appropriately for the

desired job

A Tip…In order to be successful, dress for the job

you want! Doing this shows:respect for the company or organizationthat you are serious about the jobthat you are aware of the importance of

making a professional impression

Do’sWear an appropriately-

fitting, dark-colored suit

Wear conservative, comfortable shoes Women should wear hose

with pumps

Do have nails trimmed Women should only wear

light-colored nail polish

Make sure your hair is neat, tidy, and out of your face

Don’tsWear casual fabrics

such as leather and denim

Smell heavily of perfume or cologne

Wear flashy jewelry and facial piercings

Wear loud colorsDress like you are

going out for a night on the town

ConveyThe overall professional impression that you

want to make known to a potential employer

This Includes:What potential employers will learn about

you through:Your cover letter and resumeYour appearanceHow you speakYour FacebookYour MyspaceA Google-search

Some messages you may want to conveyProfessionalismCommitmentTrustworthinessSelf-confidenceAbility to work in a team environmentPersonal Responsibility

Using workplace technology appropriately Do not update your Facebook account while at work!

Displaying appropriate behavior Do not participate in workplace gossip!

Some Final Thoughts…You have less than 60 seconds to make a

positive first impression so take advantage!Demonstrate your passion for the positionRemember to write a personal thank-you

note immediately after the interviewJust because you didn’t get the job, doesn’t

mean you weren’t qualifiedKeep a journal of your job search

experiences

For More Information

Center for Career ServicesSouthern Connecticut State University

Room 102, Schwartz Hall203-392-6536

www.careers.southernct.edu