Put your best face forward - How to look presentable during an interview

This post came out from The Straits Times (26 May 2016)
Title - Put your best face forward

Some pointers that I've got are:
1. Make a good impression
2. Appearance and attire
3. Verbal communication
4. Non-verbal communication
5. Grooming

On Make a good impression

• Employers sum up our looks within the first 30 seconds, hence putting our best face forward is critical. While one should not overdo one's make up, under doing it can suggest a lack of attentiveness. 
• Amy Cuddy, a Harvard-trained professor, has concluded that during an initial encounter with a person, we come away with two impressions. The first is how warm the person is, while the second is how trustworthy we perceive them to be. More than 80 per cent of first impressions are determined by these two traits. A sure-fire way of managing the first impression we create is by curating our image.

On Appearance and attire

• Do your clothes project the right personal image? An interview for an executive position will require a full suit preferably in conservative colours, while a creative position allows more room for expression.
• Play around with accessories to reflect your personality. For a final touch, iron your clothes and polish your shoes.

On Verbal communication

• Are you able to articulate your thoughts clearly? Do you speak at the right pace so it is easy for the listener to understand you? 
• You can adopt a role-play scenario with friends to evaluate your performance, or record yourself as you read aloud. When you play back the recording, take note of problem areas to improve your diction.

On Non-verbal communication

• Establishing eye contact is key to connect with your interviewer. A firm handshake is one way of showing your confidence, and conveys genuine interest.
• Look attentive and alert by maintaining good posture. When seated, place your hands in front of you or on your lap. Avoid digging your hands into your pockets or crossing them in front of your chest as it signals nervousness.

On Grooming

• Your overall presentation, from make-up to general cleanliness, determines the image you project. Dress appropriately for the meeting and spend time fine-tuning your look, as it can give you a winning edge. 

Yours,
Something Small Thinking Big