If first impressions were totally accurate, then everybody would either be geniuses or felons.

Still, much emphasis is placed on first meetings.  First interviews, as one might guess, are exceedingly important - that's how second interviews and jobs are landed.

But what if your first interview was just good enough to land a second?  What if, after your post-interview analyzing, you knew you didn't present yourself the way you wanted?

Thankfully, there are ways to recoup.  Here are three:

1) Reminder of first interview.  Reference a positive or two from your first interview and build upon that foundation to make a great second first impression.  Try not to remind the interviewer about any negatives or misfires. If the hiring manager asks for clarification on a negative or two from your first interview, however, place it in a positive light.  Or refer to #3 (below).

2) Reference commonalities.  A great way to sweep a less-than-stellar first impression under the rug is to build rapport by mentioning a few things you have in common with the interviewer.  This will help the hiring manager like you - and make your second first impression stellar.  If noting what you have in common doesn't seem to work, however, refer to #3 (next item below).

3) Apologize with a joke.  A mild self-depreciating joke and a very brief apology works wonders whether you're in a second interview, or just started one off badly.  It's also a safe go-to if all else fails.  Saying, "I'm sorry, I'm having a junior moment" with a smile can help show your sense of humor and humility.  Humor - in addition to helping build rapport - is also a sign of intelligence.  Humility demonstrates your self-awareness.  Hiring managers like to hire  self-aware, intelligent and likable job candidates - even if it's from the second first impression.

IN THE CARAVAN: To make a positive second first impression, reference positives from the first interview, note what you and the interviewer have in common and mildly joke about it.

NEXT THURSDAY: Preparing Ad-Libs

Check out last Thursday's post on mentioning outside endeavors.

Want more Interviewing advice?  Check out these posts and The Lion's Pride section of WildJobSafari.com!

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