Sunday, December 6, 2009

Appearance is Important

I have recently read two books that have made me realise:
Appearance is Important!


The first book I read is called "Life is a Pitch" (Written by Stephen Bayley and Roger Mavity). As the title suggests, through out your life you have to do many pitches. Most people would think of a pitch as being something that is done for an investor to get them interested in your idea. That is true but you don't just pitch to investors. There are many examples of pitches. For example, job interviews and presentations are a pitch. Even in your personal lives there will be pitches (the book gives the example of going on the first date). Basically any time that you need to ask someone a favour, or convince them to do something, it is a pitch.

As mentioned earlier, job interviews are pitches. The second book I read was called "The Secrets to Getting a Job" (Written by Philip Garside). The book's entire focus is on doing well in interviews. This is because the author believes that the way you present yourself in the interview is important. If the employer has asked you to come for an interview, they already think you have enough experience and qualifications. The interview is where the employer sees if they like you. They will be looking at your behavior and personality to see if you will fit in with their workplace culture and will be liked by the other employees.

From reading the two books there are some tips:
  • Prepare and practice what you are going to say at least a week ahead.
  • Show you are passionate about the item being pitched.
  • Be as honest as possible without revealing everything
  • If asked about weaknesses, admit there are weaknesses but then mention a strength that solves the weakness or allows the weakness to be ignored.
  • Make your pitch simple but make sure you have the extra details available if they are asked for.
  • Watch your body language, this is what makes what you are saying believable. Even the way you shake hands can make people decide if they like you within a couple of seconds of meeting them. Also show you are paying attention to others.
  • Dress appropriately.