Whether you are a teenager or an empty nester looking for that first job can be stressful! There are simple rules to making a first impression that everyone should know.

Most employers are looking for the same basic characteristics in a job seeker. They expect applicants to be neat, clean and appropriate. First impressions include hairstyle, clothing, and shoes. If you don’t know what you should wear in a certain environment try to visit the work place before your interview. Look and see what others are wearing. Do they have belly buttons showing? Is their hair purple? Try to mirror the image other employees have in that work place.

When a job seeker is sitting with a prospective employer they need to know the employer is looking for some basic skills. These skills include eye contact, articulate speech, listening skills, problem solving skills, and conflict resolution skills. Employers also want someone who can demonstrate certain soft skills such as being a team player and being good with people.

Have you ever heard the old saying “it only takes 3 seconds to make a first impression”? It’s true. From the moment you open the door and walk into a business you are being judged. Your posture, your facial expressions and your body language all count. It is important to be nice to everyone and to smile, you never know who is sitting at the receptionist’s desk.

In short, the job seeker must know that the most important thing the employer is looking for is an employee who can do the job, who wants to do the job, and who is willing to do the job!