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First Impressions Quiz
A Quintessential Careers Quiz


 

by Randall S. Hansen, Ph.D.

 

In networking, job-hunting, and at work, there are initial moments when meeting people for the first time in which you have the opportunity to make a strong first impression -- as well as a bad one. First impressions are critical because most people use them as a foundation for making a quick -- and sometimes permanent -- assessment of a person's character, attitude, and abilities. And while some people form a first impression of you in the first 5 to 30 seconds, other factors also weigh in on making a lasting impression.

 

If you need some hints and tips -- before or after taking this quiz -- review these Job-Seeker Tips for Making Good First Impressions.

 

Do you make a great first impression? Take our quiz and find out!

 

Just complete this form. Click on Submit button when ready to send.

 

You will receive the answers and a scoring guide via e-mail.

 

IMPORTANT: To ensure that you receive a response to this quiz, please be sure to (a) enter your full e-mail address in the space provided and (b) please enter your email address twice to ensure that we get your correct e-mail address. We cannot provide you with feedback if your e-mail address is incorrect or not supplied. Read our Privacy Policy if you have any concerns about providing your email address to us. If you don't want to take this quiz interactively, print out this page and mark your answers. Then go to our First Impressions Quiz Scoring Guide to see your results.

 

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If You Use Yahoo, Read This Note!

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Directions: Please answer true or false to the following questions, not as you wish you did, but as you currently do.

 

Note: Get more information (definitions and links) on key college, career, and job-search terms mentioned in this quiz by going to our Job-Seeker's Glossary of Job-Hunting Terms.

 

    When Networking...


  1. I clearly introduce myself when meeting new people.
    True
    False

     

  2. I actively listen and engage other people in conversation about them.
    True
    False

     

  3. I avoid making jokes or using off-color humor.
    True
    False

     

  4. I learn people's names and make certain to use their names when talking to them.
    True
    False

     

  5. I speak clearly and enunciate my words so people can easily understand me.
    True
    False

     

  6. I avoid talking about controversial issues, such as politics, religion, or sex.
    True
    False

     

  7. I am confident in my appearance and attitude.
    True
    False

     

  8. I avoid talking negatively about my job, boss, or company.
    True
    False

     

  9. I look for connections -- common ground and interests -- with the people I meet.
    True
    False

     

  10. I come prepared with business (or networking) cards and copies of my resume.
    True
    False

     

  11. I don't ask people I've just met to find me a new job.
    True
    False

     

    In Job-Hunting...


  12. When responding to a job posting, I submit exactly what the ad requests -- in the format the employer desires.
    True
    False

     

  13. I have a clean, sharp, and distinctive resume format/design.
    True
    False

     

  14. My resume is always accurate and targeted to the job/employer.
    True
    False

     

  15. I compose dynamic cover letters that specifically address why I am perfect for the job.
    True
    False

     

  16. I follow-up job applications in a professional manner.
    True
    False

     

  17. Before an interview, I prepare by developing responses to typical interview questions.
    True
    False

     

  18. I always research the company so that I can showcase that knowledge in the interview.
    True
    False

     

  19. I arrive at the interview on time -- and ideally a few minutes before my interview time.
    True
    False

     

  20. I realize that I need to make a good impression on everyone I meet in the organization -- not just the person who interviews me.
    True
    False

     

  21. For my interviews, I dress for success, wearing appropriate attire.
    True
    False

     

  22. I always bring additional copies of my resume to each job interview.
    True
    False

     

  23. I avoid typical interview mistakes, such as chewing gum, having messy hair, leaving my cell phone on, and using excessive jewelry, make-up, or perfume.
    True
    False

     

  24. At the job interview, I am quick to extend my (dry) hand for a firm handshake.
    True
    False

     

  25. In the interview, I show my enthusiasm by maintaining strong eye contact, good posture, and a warm smile.
    True
    False

     

  26. I avoid using "filler" language, such as saying "um," "you know," or "like," when responding to interview questions.
    True
    False

     

  27. During the interview, I make certain to ask a few questions that showcase my interest and knowledge of the employer.
    True
    False

     

  28. I avoid bringing up the issue of salary until the employer raises the topic.
    True
    False

     

  29. I end the interview with confidence, thanking the interviewer for his/her time, and asking about the next step in the process.
    True
    False

     

  30. After each interview, I send a personal thank-you note to each person I talked with.
    True
    False

     

    At Work...


  31. I always try and have a positive attitude at work.
    True
    False

     

  32. I listen first, then talk.
    True
    False

     

  33. I know when to be a superstar and when to be a good team player.
    True
    False

     

  34. I am a self-starter and take initiative in trying new things.
    True
    False

     

  35. I have a strong attendance record with my current employer.
    True
    False

     

  36. I use my work phone and email exclusively for work-related communications.
    True
    False

     

  37. I avoid spending time with the office gossips.
    True
    False

     

  38. In meetings, I always try to listen before jumping in with my opinions.
    True
    False

     

  39. If I don't know the answer to something, I am not afraid to ask for help.
    True
    False

     

  40. I show my appreciation to co-workers who help me perform my job better.
    True
    False

     

 

      

 


Don't forget to check out our entire collection of Tests and Quizzes for Job-Seekers.

 


 

Questions about some of the terminology used in this quiz? Get more information (definitions and links) on key college, career, and job-search terms by going to our Job-Seeker's Glossary of Job-Hunting Terms.

 

QuintCareers.com Founder Dr. Randall Hansen Dr. Randall S. Hansen is founder of Quintessential Careers, one of the oldest and most comprehensive career development sites on the Web, as well CEO of EmpoweringSites.com. He is also founder of MyCollegeSuccessStory.com and EnhanceMyVocabulary.com. He is publisher of Quintessential Careers Press, including the Quintessential Careers electronic newsletter, QuintZine. Dr. Hansen is also a published author, with several books, chapters in books, and hundreds of articles. He's often quoted in the media and conducts empowering workshops around the country. Finally, Dr. Hansen is also an educator, having taught at the college level for more than 15 years. Visit his personal Website or reach him by email at randall(at)quintcareers.com.

 


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