Human resources is a job that requires good interpersonal skills, great communications, and making the right first impression. If you’re looking for a new opportunity in HR but feel as though you’ve been passed up for dream jobs, it make be time to take another look at your own first impression. What could you be doing that will cause someone to take a pass? And what can you do to improve your chances of landing that opportunity?
Negative Information
While it may seem important to you, talking about why you disliked your last job or last boss will come across as extremely negative to a potential employer. Avoid badmouthing your past experience. Instead, focus on the positive. Even if you left because you were dissatisfied, turn that information into a positive reason. For example, rather than saying you were unhappy in your last job, tell them that you are looking for an opportunity that engages with the experience you have acquired over the years.
Trying to be Perfect
Perfection can also lead to problems for a future employer. If you’re trying too hard to make the most perfect decisions all the time, you may be limiting yourself and unable to come up with creative solutions to problems. Companies aren’t looking for perfection, they are looking for someone who can handle the job and make important decisions quickly.
Uninformed Interview
It is also imperative that you are prepared before the interview. Not only do you need to research the company as much as possible, but make sure you can speak about your own experience as well. Not providing details to back up your claims can lead to a poor impression by the hiring manager. Be prepared for any question that comes your way. And if you don’t know the answer, don’t make something up. Tell them you want to research it and get back to them.
Troubling Body Language
You should also pay attention to your body language. Humans say so much more with eye contact or posture than is even possible with words. While you have to make sure that your statements are on point, you should also make sure that you’re not giving them the wrong impression with your body language. Make eye contact, but don’t stare. Practice a firm handshake. Don’t recline, spread your arms or legs, or appear too timid. Both arrogance and lack of confidence can be communicated in the way you carry yourself.
Do you want to find your next HR opportunity? Harvard Resource Solutions, now hiring for jobs in Southeast MI, can help so call today!
