First Impressions

By Madison Bowden, Toppel Peer Advisor

Yes, First Impressions are everything. The first time you meet a potential employer, the President of an Organization/ Charity, etc. they will not forget how you made them feel. It may sound silly but they will remember if you were respectful, courteous, and intuitive so it’s imperative to leave a good impression. First impressions are important with everyone you network with whether it be a potential employer or not they may be in your future in ways you never thought.

Here are some secrets about FIRST IMPRESSIONS: 

*Make a unique personal statement that will leave the employer to remember you—this requires strategizing beforehand.

*Dress to Impress.

*From personal relationships to professional make sure to always represent yourself in a way you want to be remembered that resembles your true self.

*Good posture shows you carry yourself in a confident way. 

*Smile! Make sure to smile and seem enthusiastic! 

*Eye contact says a lot about a person. It is important to look the person you are speaking with in the eyes and not be looking away from them. Eye contact is a non-verbal way of communication that shows you are interested in what he/she is saying.

*Firm handshake shows confidence and professionalism. 

*Last, but not least, always be confident when you meet someone. You can show confidence by following all of the key secrets listed above. 

The Secret to Delivering the Perfect PITCH

By Megan Morini, Assistant Director, Business Consultant

First impressions are everything.  In today’s world, it is all about being able to articulate and sell or “pitch” your idea, product or yourself.  Students and candidates in an interview often find it hard to sell themselves and answered the dreaded “Tell me about yourself?” question. When will be the next time you are stuck in an elevator with the CEO for your dream job? The idea of talking about yourself may be uncomfortable, but it really sets the tone for an interview and can make or break your offer.  Follow these four steps for delivering the perfect pitch.

STEP 1: CLEARLY INTRODUCE YOURSELF

State your first and last name, confidentially. Many people panic with where to start thus stumble over his/her own name! You should be able to plan several different “pitches” and include an element of relevance within your introduction.  For example, a skill, your major, your industry experience. Keep it short and concrete. 

STEP 2: SELL YOURSELF

Briefly talk about relevant experience that may include coursework, training, or your current job or internship.  Have passion, be natural, and find a common ground to phase into the next step. 

STEP 3: MAKE THE CONNECTION

State a fact about the company, such as recent news, trends in their industry, or a trait that exceeds their competition.  This will show you have done your research and will increase your credibility. 

STEP 4: CLOSE LIKE A PRO

Talk about your strength and abilities, interest in the company or position, and leave the person wanting more.  Elevator pitches should be no longer than 30-60 seconds; do not try and pack too much in. The goal is to confidently communicate that you know what you are doing and where you want to go.