Projecting the right image

Read the text. Seven sentences have been removed. Choose from sentences A – H the one which fits each gap (1-6). There is one extra sentence which you don’t need. There is an example at the beginning (0).

Today’s employers are looking for young people who have personality and the willingness to learn. (0) So says Lynn Hodges, managing director of style and image consultancy “Up Front”. Her work includes helping restaurateurs and chefs to improve their skills and image in the workplace.

Hodges advises that the golden rules of job-hunting are preparation, research and honesty. (1) Projecting the right image begins as soon as you have any contract with a prospective employer, whether telephoning a secretary or personnel department for an application form or sending a CV.

You can make these steps work for you by rehearsing what you need to say. (2) And before you write any information about yourself, make notes on your career or academic history and the experiences you want to emphasise. The time an employer spends reading a CV varies from three to twenty seconds. (3) You will definitely make a bad impression if you resort to gimmicks, such as CVs printed on brightly coloured paper or bound in elaborate folders. At this stage a two-page CV with a supporting one-page letter is sufficient.

When you do get an interview, find out what you have to take with you and plan what you are going to wear. (4) And play it safe, not trendy or jokey. Men should leave those “Wallace and Grommit’ ties at the back of the wardrobe, and women should wear skirts or shift dresses because there is always a risk that the employer dislikes trousers. And a heat wave is no excuse for women to have bare legs.

On entering the interview room, remember that non-verbal communication counts for 55% of the impact you will make. (5) Try to speak slowly and clearly but don’t try to hide your accent or lie about your background. A common question is: “Why do you want this job?” Answer this by referring to one of your strengths. For example, a good answer might be: “I realized from my work experience that I am well-organised and outgoing, which I think are the qualities needed for working in reception.”

(6) They show that you have drive and initiative, and are looking for an understanding of how the company works so that you can build a career there.

A – If you pay attention to these three aspects, you will show that you have the right attributes and can expect to make a good impression.

B – Clothes should be clean and well-pressed with polished shoes which you can walk in comfortably.

C – Hodges advises, “head held high, back straight and a handshake that is firm, not flimsy.”

D – Demonstrate an interest in the industry, such as work experience or attending open days.

E – So says Lynn Hodges, managing director of style and image consultancy “Up Front”.

F – Before you pick up the phone, know which department you have to ask for.

G – Finally, never be afraid to ask properly phrased and relevant questions such as, “When would I have my first appraisal?”

H – This means it is very hard to make a lasting impression, but extremely easy to make a bad one.