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How to Make a Great First Impression at an Interview
Page Overview:
At Aaron Wallis Sales Recruitment, we emphasise that a standout first impression can make all the difference in interviews, especially when time and opinion shift quickly. This page details essential tips for creating a positive, lasting impact: dressing smartly (paying attention to grooming, subtle fragrances, and covering tattoos), arriving early and composed (even prepping your mindset beforehand), and engaging warmly with every person you meet, including reception staff, whose opinions often matter more than you'd expect. From confident greetings to genuine smiles and thoughtful eye contact, we guide you to begin every interview by bringing energy, professionalism, and rapport, setting the tone for the entire conversation.
First impressions Count
Human beings are a very judgmental species; it takes twenty minutes of positives to change that initial opinion, so it is crucial that you make a brilliant first impression. Dress smart - dark suits, white blouse/shirts, etc. Pay close attention to the details, clean fingernails, smart clean shoes, subtle aftershave/perfume, etc. Don't overdo the jewellery, and call me old-fashioned, but I'd recommend you keep tattoos covered.
What does 'Smart Casual' Mean?
Smart Casual typically means wearing something dressier than everyday casual wear, but not as formal as business professional attire. For men, it usually means wearing a collared shirt, tailored trousers, and smart shoes (but no jacket). For women, it usually means wearing Tailored trousers, a dress or skirt with a nice blouse/top and closed-toe shoes. However, this definition changes continuously, so don't be surprised if by 2025 it means joggers and trainers!
Turn up on Time
If the journey is going to take forty-five minutes, allow an hour and a quarter. Arrive 'early and calm' rather than 'just in time and frantic'. En route, take fifteen minutes in silence to imagine yourself in the role, your responsibilities, and the job requirements. If nervous, spend the remainder of the journey listening to some favourite loud music, particularly 'anthem' songs that you can sing along to. Raise those endorphins and arrive focused and 'in the zone!'
Upon Arrival
Go into reception ten minutes early; be friendly, polite and pleasant to everyone that you meet – the person in overalls that nods at you as you walk into the building could be the CEO.
It's the little things that often make the big difference. If you found the directions easy to follow, liked the receptionist's tie, the flowers on reception, or the company logo, then say it, but only if you mean it!
PAs and Receptionists are often asked their opinions, their 'gut feel' as part of the decision process (particularly in smaller companies), so that five minutes of pleasantries with reception about the weather, the traffic and how easy you found them, could clinch you the role.
Upon arrival, read the literature, sit calmly, and make notes. Alternatively, you could remain standing as this creates an impression of energy and importance and quite literally keeps you 'on your toes!'
Smile
Smiling costs nothing; it gives you confidence, and people's perceptions of you will be more positive! Smile at everyone you meet and pass, however, always smile with your eyes and mean it – it is easy to spot a false smile.
Greeting & Eye Contact
Ensure your greeting is confident but not overbearing. When you meet the interviewer for the first time, look at their eyes long enough to register their eye colour and think of someone they remind you of – this will be perfect initial eye contact and enable you to remember them on sight for the next meeting!
Transcript of How to Make a Great First Impression at an Interview Video
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Date published: 4th August 2025
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by George Humphries
Senior Consultant
About the author
George Humphries
George is an experienced recruitment consultant at Aaron Wallis, specialising in recruiting top sales staff for technical and commercial positions. With a background in both FCMG and technical sales, George has first-hand experience in the sales industry, giving him great insight into identifying top performers.
If you're looking to take the next step in your career, George is a valuable source of professional advice, working daily with some of the brightest and biggest businesses throughout the UK.
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