WEBVTT

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End this lesson we'll look at a few ways to make a great first impression when you go into your job

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interview.

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Let's begin by talking about a few things that you can do before you even go into the building.

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The first thing to keep in mind is that you should arrive for an interview 10 minutes early.

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This means arriving outside the building 15 minutes early so that you have a few minutes to find the

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office where your interview will be held.

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Second the Department of Labor recommends that you always go to a job interview alone bringing a friend

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or a spouse with you sends a subtle message that you can't handle new tasks without moral support and

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bringing your child to a job interview may send a message that you don't have adequate child care.

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Third turn your cell phone off before you even enter the building.

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Fourth spit out your gum if you're chewing it.

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When you get here in our view be kind to the receptionist you have no idea what type of influence anybody

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in the office has.

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So be sure that you're friendly to everybody you meet.

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If you're offered a drink while you're waiting it's usually a good idea to decline although accepting

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a drink from your interviewer once the interview starts can be a great way to develop rapport.

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While you're waiting.

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Make an effort to relax in your chair.

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Do not sit in a way that conveys anxiety.

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If you're especially nervous bring something to read while you wait.

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Even if you only pretend to read the words in front of you holding onto a magazine or a book will give

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you something to do with your hands and something to do with your eyes while you pretend to read.

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You can work on taking nice long breaths getting extra oxygen to your brain will help you relax once

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you meet your interviewer.

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Smile and make eye contact as you approach the person and then shake hands to make the best first impression.

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Keep a few things in mind as you shake hands.

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First step toward the person and slightly to the left as you reach for his or her hand.

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This will line you up for a good first meeting.

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Second match the interviewer's grip as closely as you can.

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A good handshake is equal.

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Don't squeeze too hard but don't give them the limp fish either.

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Third maintain true and steady eye contact while you're shaking hands.

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It's not always the greatest idea to maintain excessive eye contact throughout a conversation but it's

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a very good idea when you're first meeting a person for Earth.

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Keep the handshake simple and traditional.

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Don't touch any other part of the interviewer's body while you're shaking hands and don't try any fancy

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handshake finishes like snaps points or fist bumps.

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Remember you want the interviewer's first impression of you to be one of friendly confidence and professionalism.

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Finally and very importantly when the handshake is finished give the interviewer about three to five

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seconds to just sort of take you in before you move away or sit down.

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This few seconds can build a lot of rapport by giving your interviewer time to become comfortable with

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you.

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Practice these steps with a friend or a family member until they feel natural.
