The Five Senses of Interviewing

When going out to interview, it is important to look and sound your best; after all, this is your moment to show that you are the best candidate for the job. However, one wrong move and you can destroy any hopes for landing that job. If you can remember these five senses interviewing tips, you can be sure that you are making the best impression on your interviewer and hopefully, land you that dream job.

1) Sight - Remember to maintain eye contact with your interviewer. This shows that you are serious and professional. Avoiding eye contact to give an employer the impression that you are hiding something, even if you're not.

2) Touch - Remember to give a solid handshake. A handshake can say a lot about a person, and if you offer a soft handshake, it may send your employer the wrong impression. A strong handshake shows determination and professional strength. Also, try not to fidget while interviewing, no matter how uncomfortable or nervous you may be.

3) Sound - Speak in an even and personable tone. Try not to speak too loudly or too softly, which can distract the employer. Maintain a professional and articulate tone, while speaking clearly. Speaking too fast or hesitating in your answers can give the employer the wrong impression and negatively impact your interview.

4) Smell - Well, this is an obvious one, but shower before you attend your interview, but do not apply cologne or perfume before you interview. Remember you will most likely be in a small, closed off room with a person, and an overwhelming scent can affect the interviewer negatively. It is best to leave all fragrances off during the interview process.

5) Taste - Again, brushing your teeth and swishing with mouthwash is advisable. If at all possible, use mints on the way to the interview, to ensure good breath. Do not eat prior to an interview, or if you have to, bring a toothbrush and mouthwash with you to cleanse your mouth. No one wants to see or smell your lunch in your mouth!

If you can remember these five little tips, you can successfully make a sparkling impression with your (possible) future employer. Small measures like these can help you avoid bad impressions. After all, an employer makes their decision within the first ten seconds of meeting you, so ensuring that your appearance is neat and tidy will help you move past that ten second decision and into the keeper candidate pile.