We hear all the time that looks do not count. But, the truth is that they do. Your potential employer has your name, experience, and qualifications on paper. They shape a mental image of who you are, and they mean to prove it right that first day they meet you. That day, everything in writing moves to the background because they will initially be judging you by your appearance. Hence the first impression you make will play a relevant role as an influential factor to get the job.

Your first step in: Attitude

   How many times has somebody told you "thank you," and you knew they were not thankful. Behavior can be learned as a sequence of movements one needs to memorize. Good manners are lesson one from the moment we are born, and they open the path to every social interaction.       

   However, automated forms alone may convey a contradictory message.  And that is because of the way we do things; our attitude is a different story. We cannot learn it so easily. We need to think, feel, and then act accordingly. The first step is to ponder and reflect on our qualities and stress them during the interview. For example, if we are not friendly by nature but want to "seem," there will be something fake in our behavior showing something we are not and thus will not be convincing. Some people are good at acting, though, and it may get them the job. Just remember that if you pose a role and are good at it, you will have to live with it. 

   In short, prioritize your qualities and exploit them. With the rest, just play as simple as you can.

Beyond the clothes you wear: Confidence.

   From the very moment you take a step on campus, you will want to make a first impression that implies more than a clean cut and a dress code. Of course, it is relevant to research the site or even ask about clothing code to adapt the best you can. However, it would help if you did not stop there. Avoid those clothes that make you feel uncomfortable. Wearing them will distract you from what matters in the same way that over-wearing accessories can divert your interviewer’s attention. Past all that that pertains to your external and clean appearance, you may want to focus on showing that you trust yourself so they can trust you. Showing confidence is hard when you feel anxious, nervous, impatient, which is perfectly normal during an interview. Therefore, you may appeal to some techniques to let your confidence stand out. Practicing non-verbal communication such as handshakes, posture, and eye contact can help appear in control. While practicing breathing techniques and speaking slowly can help you feel in control.

   Think positively; you are one of the few given a chance to be there. Looking at the bright side of things will boost your confidence to make a difference.

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