How To Make Perfect First Impressions at Job Interviews

A job interview is one of the highest-stakes moments in your career. Research shows that people form a first impression in around 7 seconds — and some studies suggest our brains make snap judgements in as little as 1/10th of a second. You can’t change the shape of your face, but you can absolutely use psychology and presentation to your advantage.

You’ve already proven you’re capable — your CV got you in the room. Now it’s about making an immediate, positive impression that sets the tone for the entire interview.

Below are our career coaching experts’ top strategies to help you walk in with confidence and leave a lasting impact.

Arriving in Style

Dress Appropriately

Your outfit should be clean, pressed and well-fitted. Research the company’s culture — corporate workplaces generally expect a standard business look, while creative industries or start-ups may lean towards smart-casual. Aim to dress at a similar level to your interviewer.

Present Yourself Well

• Neat hair
• Clean nails
• Fresh breath (avoid coffee, cigarettes and food immediately beforehand)
• Consider a dental check if you’re preparing for several important interviews

Arrive Early — But Not Too Early

Arrive 5–10 minutes before your interview. Any earlier and you risk creating anxiety for the interviewer. Plan your travel ahead of time and, if needed, visit the location the day before. Being late, however, is unforgivable.

Be Interview-Ready

Turn your phone off. Keep your CV copies and notes in a neat folder. Avoid using a phone or tablet during the interview — paper always looks more professional. And take one last quick check in the bathroom before you walk in.

Your Grand Entrance

Use Strong Body Language

Think confident and open: chin up, shoulders back, arms relaxed by your sides. When seated, don’t slouch or fold your arms — face the interviewers comfortably.

Master the Handshake

The perfect handshake is warm, dry, firm (but not painful) and lasts around 2–3 seconds. Make eye contact, smile, and use the person’s name. Repeat this with everyone in the room.

Smile — A Lot

If your cheeks don’t hurt a little during the first five minutes, you’re probably not smiling enough.

Greet Everyone You Meet

This includes the receptionist, office staff and anyone you pass. People talk — and good impressions travel fast.

Remember Names

Learn names in advance if possible, or repeat them as you’re introduced. For tricky names, ask for the correct pronunciation — people appreciate the effort.

The Conversation

Use Balanced Eye Contact

Eye contact signals confidence, intelligence and respect. The goal: not too little, not too much. When answering a question, speak primarily to the person who asked it, but include others with occasional glances.

Ask Intelligent, Well-Researched Questions

This shows genuine interest and preparation. It signals that you’re evaluating them just as carefully as they’re evaluating you. Good questions demonstrate curiosity, insight and professionalism.

Listen Actively

Nod, make eye contact and respond with phrases like “I understand” to show appreciation and engagement. Strong listeners build rapport quickly.

Speak Clearly and Avoid Interrupting

• Use proper grammar
• Avoid slang (industry terms are fine)
• Pause briefly before answering to give your best response
• Keep answers around two minutes each

Your Graceful Exit

End the interview with a confident handshake and clear enthusiasm. Look them in the eye and tell them you’re very interested in the role. Ask about next steps — it shows confidence and motivation.

Once you’ve left, send a brief thank-you email and connect on LinkedIn with a personalised note.

Remember: the most enthusiastic candidate often wins over the most technically qualified candidate. Employers hire motivation and attitude just as much as experience.

Every interview is practice — treat each one like your dream role, and the offers will follow.