In today's world, a common way of finding a job is to connect through a job fair. I coached a recent college graduate who was preparing for just that. The job fair was for people with his major and was at his university. He and the other candidates were on equal footing. So, how does one set himself apart in such a competitive market?

With only around 2 minutes to connect with HR representatives, the candidate will need to make a stellar first impression and be able connect with the employers. 

• First Impressions Matter
  
• Building Rapport is Important
  

First, it takes 17 seconds to make a first impression. This is not much time. It takes 27 interactions to overcome a first impression if it is bad. A candidate needs to be aware of the nonverbal cues that help to make up a first impression. And to work on those so that the first impression they give is a good one. 

Because this is so important, we have a course,  Ace Your Interview, that explains ways to make a good first impression. One of the main factors is body language. Since around 93% of our communication is nonverbal.  Some of the cues that go into this are ones that you've probably heard your whole life. 

• Sit up straight
• Eye contact
• Appropriate dress
• Smile

These may be things that you think you do well, but I would recommend getting an observers opinion before going into this situation. You will not get 27 chances to overcome this first impression.

We have examples in the video Do's and Don'ts of candidates who make poor first impressions. There is one candidate in the video who exemplifies how to be appropriate and create rapport.

While working on first impression and body language, we also dealt with the client's nervousness.  Knowing how you will respond to the environment where you are being judged is good to know. Being able to handle that nervousness will be an asset. 

Finally, it is our hope that you will be able to go into an job fair confidently. Most of all, we believe that you are gifted and have a lot to offer this world. 

Thank you for your time today. I'd love to connect on social media. I am Kelly Archibald there.

Let's talk soon!

Kelly

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