FINANCE/ACCOUNTING CAREERS

First Impressions: How to Make Them Count

While most job interviews last for about an hour, it’s the first few minutes after you shake hands that may count the most. According to a Robert Half International survey, executives form either a positive or negative opinion of job candidates in just 10 minutes of making their acquaintance. 

With such a brief time to make a first impression with a hiring manager, how can accounting and finance professionals make sure it’s a positive one? Here are some suggestions to keep in mind:

Arrive early. Don’t add to the stress of this important meeting by rushing in the door at the last minute in a photo finish. Plan to get to the interview location at least 15 minutes early so you’ll have time to compose yourself and relax a little. This also provides a bit of a buffer should you get lost on your way.

Go into interview mode as soon as you arrive. Post-interview, most hiring managers ask everyone who interacted with a candidate – from administrative staff to upper management – for feedback on a prospective employee. Be considerate and professional with each person you encounter. The receptionist doesn’t want to hear a 15-minute cell phone discussion you have with your husband about your dislike of his sister while you’re waiting in the lobby. 

Dress to impress. Whether or not we like to admit it, what you wear can make a big impression on an interviewer. Always don a nice suit or business-appropriate dress, even if you know the office has a casual environment. Avoid wearing anything distracting, whether it’s a neon-blue tie or your “lucky” earrings with beads that fan down past your shoulders. You want the hiring manager to focus on what you’re saying, not on your fashion accessories.

Ease into the conversation. Small talk plays a big role in any interview; it helps to break the ice and puts both parties at ease. It also demonstrates your ability to make conversation with potential clients, coworkers or executives. If the hiring manager asks if you had trouble finding the office or about traffic on the freeways, offer more than a “yes” or “no” answer. Just don’t overdo it; save your soliloquy on the environmental benefits of public transportation for after you’ve been hired for the job. (Or, better yet, share it with friends outside of work.)

Focus on the small things. Be sure you offer a firm handshake, make eye contact during the interview and maintain good posture. Seemingly minor nonverbal cues say a lot about your personality and interest in the position. And the fact that employers form their opinions so quickly is enough incentive to avoid crossing your arms, nodding hurriedly or frowning – all of these actions can send the wrong message.

Know how to answer the most common questions. Hiring managers frequently begin interviews with straightforward, yet important, queries, such as:

• “Can you tell me a little about yourself?”
• “What do you know about our firm?”
• “Why do you want to work here?”
• “Why are you looking to leave your current job?”
• “What is your most significant professional achievement?”

Do some research on the firm so you’ll be able to give more in-depth answers. This also will allow you to show how your strengths could help you support company priorities. By preparing beforehand and rehearsing your responses to potential questions, you’ll further demonstrate your knowledge of the company and ability to excel in the position.

Founded in 1948, Robert Half Finance & Accounting, a division of Robert Half International Inc., is first and largest specialized financial recruiting service. The company has more than 360 offices worldwide. Search for jobs now or learn more at www.roberthalf.com.