---
title: The ABCDs of Making a Good First Impression
description: Here's what you need to keep in mind when you go for that job interview.
authors:
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published: '2016-05-19T18:27:02.000Z'
modified: '2016-05-19T18:27:02.000Z'
section: Career Advice
tags:
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  - background check
  - Body Image
  - body language
  - Careers
  - communication
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  - first impression
  - Internet
  - Interview
  - job
  - job hunt
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  - Social Media
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word_count: 210
canonical: https://money.com/good-first-impression-professional-image/
type: Article
source: structured-blocks
---

> **Disclosure:** We research all brands listed and may earn a fee from our partners. Research and financial considerations may influence how brands are displayed. Not all brands are included. [Learn more](https://money.com/page/disclaimer/).

![Two businessmen shaking hands at lunch meeting](https://img.money.com/2016/05/gettyimages-493585563.jpg)
*Two businessmen standing shaking hands at lunch meeting in restaurant*

If you are looking for a job or about to go on a job interview, you need to focus on your professional image. Everything about you — how you walk, what you say, how you sit, and what you have online — matters when it comes to making a good first impression. Image consultant [Sylvie di Giusto](http://executive-image-consulting.com) shares what she calls the ABCDs of making that positive first impression.

**A - Appearance** - This is what you wear. Pick things that are professional-looking and are comfortable for you to wear. You have seven seconds to make a good first impression.

**B - Behavior** - Consider your body language: Are you open or closed-off? How do you walk? With your head held high, or your shoulders hunched? Make sure you make eye contact when you speak, and always shake hands.

**C - Communication** - The first 11 words are what people will remember about you, says di Giusto, so make them count.

**D - Digital Footprint** - Google. Social media. Background checks. What pops up when you plug your name into a search engine? Before you even come in for a job interview, your potential employer is researching you online. So make sure that your online presence reflects well on you.

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