You can be sure that when you see a job advertised online or in a newspaper that there will be plenty of interested applicants, especially if it offers a decent wage. As someone who has hired many employees in the graphic arts industry, I want to share with you what things I notice that distinguish the competition. With many applicants, you need a way to distinguish yourself. Here are 5 ways that you can leave a memorable impression.

1. Your greeting. Approach the interviewer and give a firm handshake. State your full name and after learning the interviewers name, begin using it immediately and be sure to smile. Those first 30 seconds mean a lot in leaving a good impression. I love this when people actually show they have good people skills.

2. Make yourself memorable, but not too memorable. Once I interviewed this guy that had his resume cast in aluminum. It weight about 30 pounds. When I asked regarding his qualifications, he pulled out his resume which made a thud as it landed on my desk. There was silence. He said "You may never hire me, but you will never forget me." He’s right, I still haven’t forgotten him, but never hired him either. I’m not impressed with stunts like that. Find a way to show how your presentation is different, but don’t overdo it. The impression must be a positive one.

3. Dress the part. It’s amazing, how often I meet a pressman in an interview who comes in their jeans. If you want to distinguish yourself, dress like you are the best. Try to even dress in a similar color to the company’s logo color or uniform, but once again, don’t overdo it.

4. Be grateful. I really appreciate people who are thankful. Even if they don’t do so well at answering questions, if they show themselves grateful, this leaves a good impression with me. It's a valuable asset not just in the printing industry.

5. Know your value. Everyone has something good to offer. I’m looking for people who have the right qualifications. But at the end of the day, someone who has good people skills and is willing to learn is more valuable than someone who knows it all and is bad with people. Show your value by showing your eagerness to learn and be good with people.

In conclusion, I would recommend taking your time to prepare well for the job interview. Think through each of the five points and prepare how you will address them. If you really want the job, you will take the time to prepare well. I interview people for jobs in the printing industry and I’m sure that interviews for pressman jobs do not differ much from any other. Please take a few minutes to visit my website to learn more about what qualities for a job make a distinguished pressman in the printing industry.