Whether you are interviewing for a financial modeling job or simply meeting a client or potential customer, making a good first impression is very important. Therefore, understanding some ways you may ruin that first impression are important to keep in mind to ensure you are making the best first impression you can.
- Typos – When sending a resume, cover letter, or follow-up email, having typos present in your correspondence is extremely unprofessional and should be avoided at all costs. Proofread your work and, if possible, have someone else proofread your correspondence to ensure it is free of spelling and grammar errors.
- Not up with technology – In today’s technologically advanced society, not providing an email address or not having your voice mail set up is considered not up-to-date and, therefore, difficult to correspond with. Ensure you have a good, professional, email address on your resume and all correspondence. Also, be conscious of your voice mail and cell phone and its set up. Have a professional greeting and watch out for ring-back tones and other extras that may not be professional to those leaving you a message.
- Not engaged – You can quickly ruin your first impression if you are not engaged in the conversation. If you are meeting someone for the first time, especially during an interview, be sure to make eye contact and stay engaged in the conversation. Checking your phone or your watch can be distracting and be extremely unprofessional. Staying engaged in the conversation and show your genuine interest in what is being said.
First impressions are extremely important and you never get another chance to make that first impression so ensure it is an impression you want left about yourself. Make certain you leave a first impression that you want to leave when looking for a new job within the financial modeling field.