You never get a second chance to make a first impression, especially when it comes to job interviews. Regardless of how much you research a company and rehearse exactly what you’re going to say the night before an interview, you must realize that what isn’t said is just as significant as what is said. Studies show that you only have seven to 17 seconds to make a favorable first impression and 18 additional encounters to change a first impression.

According to Dr. Albert Mehrabien, Professor Emeritus of Psychology at UCLA, what you say accounts for 7% of making a good first impression; your body language and the tone of your voice 38% and how you look accounts for 55%. (This is known as Mehrabien’s 7%-38%-55% Rule.)

Take the time to re-think how you represent yourself during an interview. Ask yourself: What does your professional appearance say about you? Is your image consistent with your resume? Is it in line with your career goals?

Follow these steps to make a favorable first impression:

1. Research the company’s dress code and culture to better understand how employees dress. Review the company’s annual report to see how the executives are dressed. If the company is business casual, tailor your interview attire accordingly. It also depends on the level of the position you are applying for and who you will be meeting.

2. You don’t have to spend a lot of money to dress to impress. Wear an outfit that makes you feel good. Choose a suit that fits the company culture and suits you as well. If the company is more business casual then select separates such as a jacket and pants rather than a formal suit.

3. Wear a color that complements your natural coloring.

4. Pay attention to the details of your outfit. Attention to detail translates to attention to detail on the job. Fit of the suit/outfit is critical. Jacket sleeves or trousers may need to be hemmed. Skirt hems should fall just above the knee or at the knee. Shoes need to be clean and shined. Keep jewelry simple. Leave noisy bracelets & necklaces at home.

5. Try the outfit on a few days before the interview to make sure it works.

6. Clean and press your outfit. Check for stains, holes, missing buttons, frayed collars and threads at least a week before the interview.

7. Use one professional tote and include a small clutch for money and essentials. Carrying multiple bags is cumbersome and can look sloppy.

8. Clean and file your nails. Wear light colored polish. Keep make-up to a minimum and skip the perfume.

9. Breathe and relax. Smile and give a solid handshake. Make eye contact.

10. Slide back into your chair. When the interviewer asks you to be seated, don’t plop yourself down.

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