First impressions count and there is research to prove it. According to a study published in the Journal of Occupational and Organizational Psychology, two researchers found that the first 15 minutes are when an impression is made during an interview (Frieder, Iddekinge, & Raymark, 2015).

One organization, our partner, Spectrum, America’s fastest growing TV, internet and voice company, understands the importance of a first impression. They have developed a new tool to help recruiters engage with military-trained job candidates before an interview takes place, with a [digital video introduction tool](http://bit.ly/SpectrumVideoTool). This [tool](http://bit.ly/SpectrumVideoTool) allows recruiters to get a first impression of veteran applicants and help them find the right resources at Spectrum for the next step in their career.

Is this the new direction for many companies to get a first impression of an applicant before an interview? Yes, it is.

That’s why first impression is key.

What does a talent acquisition team want to see from a candidate to help make a lasting first impression?

Wendi Partin, military talent sourcer at Spectrum, provides best practices to create a stellar first impression via a [digital video introduction tool](http://bit.ly/SpectrumVideoTool), or in a video interview.

• **Visual impression is important.** This is the first impression a recruiter may have of you. Make sure the visual looks good, have a good background, such as sitting at a desk. Avoid being in a public place when on camera. Dress to impress in business attire and consider personal appearance a top priority.

• **Let your personality shine through.** Use this opportunity to show your personality and presence. This is where practice comes in. Be confident. Make sure you are looking at the camera, speaking clearly and smiling.

• **Think through how your military-experience translates to private sector.** Spectrum knows that job candidates who possess a military background are hard-working, dedicated, responsible and prepared for leadership roles which ultimately contributes to their success with a civilian employer. Deciphering how a military role translates to a civilian role in a company can sometimes be tricky, so you should be able to sell how your military-trained skills can be of benefit to an organization. Video tools allow for you to express those skills in a way that may not translate as well in a resume.

• **Practice your elevator pitch.** This brief introductory opportunity is designed to spark interest and further conversation. The goal is to introduce yourself and your experience to a potential employer in a concise manner.

• **Seek opportunities to stand-out.** In today’s digital world, make sure to utilize digital opportunities such as Spectrum’s [tool](http://bit.ly/SpectrumVideoTool). They allow you a faster route to make a first impression and potentially find your next career opportunity. Spectrum, for example views submitted footage and responds within 48 hours.

Job candidates who are digital natives and keen to take advantage of Spectrum’s tool will find themselves ahead in the job search game. A foot in the door is no longer as valuable as a strong first impression made with an introductory video interview.

For more information regarding this tool, click [here](http://bit.ly/SpectrumVideoTool). If you know someone who would also be interested, please share on LinkedIn, Facebook or Twitter.