Impression management: implementations for selection.

Shakespeare told us that "all the world is a stage...and one man in his time plays many parts." One stage upon which people are particularly interested in creating positive impressions is that of the selection stage. We may picture a lineup: All the applicants in their navy suits and neatly typed

resumes standing in front of a one-way mirror spouting off their credentials. Suddenly, the mirror reverses and the applicants are viewing the organization and the interviewers. Both sides are attempting to influence the impressions others form of them. In other words, all are engaging in impression management (IM).

From The Applicant's Point Of View

First, a closer awareness of IM behaviors will make individuals able to identify times it is useful to engage in IM, especially in the realm of the selection process. Pre-employment information such as the resume or cover letter may provide the first opportunity for applicants to portray themselves to the organization. Applicants who use positive self-reporting to enhance their own reputation will more likely be granted a positive first impression; likewise, a poor presentation on paper will carry over to a poor first impression. Furthermore, the first impression may be difficult to alter or overcome.

The applicant should make sure that a resume:

* is one to two pages in length.

* contains a job objective.

* uses an attractive, logical format (two-column arrangement is attractive; education and experience in time sequence in reverse order is logical).

* includes references, complete with names, addresses and phone numbers.

* is presented on good quality paper (such as a linen finish) in an appropriate color (such as white or ivory).

* uses mechanical means (bullets, holding) and varied font size to emphasize key points.

* is perfect in appearance and correctness.

Furthermore, a cover letter should:

* be addressed to an individual rather than to a personnel department or firm.

* use the three-paragraph approach:

1. State the position for which you are applying and where you learned of the opening.

2. Give details concerning how your experience and education qualify you for the position; interpret resume from reader's standpoint and refer to resume subordinately.