1. Center for Career Services Southern Connecticut State University

2. Say One’s ability to make a good impression based on verbal and nonverbal messages

3. In Order to Prepare… Practice Practice Practice! Utilize special Career Services tools such as: One on one role-play with a career counselor Research the company Develop and organize your thoughts before you speak

4. Consider… Saying why you are the best! Use success stories for emphasis Be convincing Remember your audience No slang No inappropriate disclosure Being yourself! Being comfortable enough to ask for clarifications

5. Wear One’s ability to dress appropriately for the desired job

6. A Tip… In order to be successful, dress for the job you want! Doing this shows: respect for the company or organization that you are serious about the job that you are aware of the importance of making a professional impression

7. Do’s Wear 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

8. Don’ts Wear casual fabrics such as leather and denim Smell heavily of perfume or cologne Wear flashy jewelry and facial piercings Wear loud colors Dress like you are going out for a night on the town

9. Convey The overall professional impression that you want to make known to a potential employer

10. This Includes: What potential employers will learn about you through : Your cover letter and resume Your appearance How you speak Your Facebook Your Myspace A Google-search

11. Some messages you may want to convey Professionalism Commitment Trustworthiness Self-confidence Ability to work in a team environment Personal Responsibility Using workplace technology appropriately Do not update your Facebook account while at work! Displaying appropriate behavior Do not participate in workplace gossip!

12. Some Final Thoughts… You have less than 60 seconds to make a positive first impression so take advantage! Demonstrate your passion for the position Remember to write a personal thank-you note immediately after the interview Just because you didn’t get the job, doesn’t mean you weren’t qualified Keep a journal of your job search experiences

13. For More Information Center for Career Services Southern Connecticut State University Room 102, Schwartz Hall 203-392-6536 www.careers.southernct.edu