The Magic Minute: Why the First 60 Seconds of Your Interview Matter More Than You Think (And How to Fly Beyond Them)

We’ve all heard the saying: “You never get a second chance to make a first impression.” But in the world of job interviews, that first impression isn’t just important - it’s everything. And trust me, I say that from experience. I’ve held thousands of interviews over the years, and yes - I’ve cut some short within the first 60 seconds. Not out of rudeness, but because I already knew: they hadn’t done enough to stand out.

Employers are busy people, often juggling back-to-back interviews and a long list of hopeful candidates, all vying for the same opportunity. So, if it’s a desirable company, you have to assume the competition is fierce. That means you need to come in with impact, build instant rapport, and keep your interviewer engaged from the very first second. The rest of the interview won’t matter unless you win them over at the start.

Studies show that interviewers form an initial opinion within the first 60 seconds of meeting you. One minute. That’s all you have to set the tone, to establish rapport, to spark curiosity, and to make them want to hear more.

So, how do you make that one minute work in your favour? And once you’ve nailed the start - how do you keep that momentum and truly fly in your interview?

Let’s break it down:

The Magic of the First 60 Seconds

It starts the moment you walk in - or even before, if it’s virtual. Your energy, posture, tone of voice, and presence do the talking before you even utter a word.

Here’s how to own your first minute:

• Smile - genuinely. Warmth is disarming and instantly builds rapport.

• Make eye contact. It shows confidence, trustworthiness, and connection.

• Use their name. If you know who’s interviewing you, greet them personally.

• Mirror their energy. Be enthusiastic, but don’t overpower. Match their tone while showing professionalism.

• Be ready with your one-liner. When they say, “Tell me about yourself,” don’t waffle. Have a short, punchy, confident summary ready: who you are, what you do, and why you're excited to be there.

Now You’ve Taken Off - How to Fly

Once you’ve impressed in that opening minute, the next job is to keep them engaged. Here’s how:

1. Know Your Story

Your CV got you in the room. Now bring it to life. Share your experience with energy, focusing not just on what you did - but why it mattered and what results you achieved.

2. Connect Your Experience to Their Needs

Research the company. Understand their pain points. When answering questions, align your strengths with what they care about. Be the solution they didn’t know they needed.

3. Show Self-Awareness

Be honest about challenges you’ve faced and what you’ve learned. Employers aren’t looking for perfect - they’re looking for self-aware, adaptable humans.

4. Ask Thoughtful Questions

An interview isn’t just about answering - it’s also about showing curiosity. Ask questions that show you're invested in their culture, their mission, and your potential contribution.

5. Bring the Energy

Energy is infectious. Keep your tone upbeat, your posture open, and your enthusiasm genuine. They’re not just hiring a skillset - they’re hiring a person. Make them excited to work with you.

The Lasting Impression

Interviews are part performance, part connection. Yes, you need to know your stuff. But even more importantly, you need to leave them thinking:

“There’s just something about them.”

That "something" is your blend of confidence, presence, warmth, and emotional intelligence.

So, don’t just prepare to answer questions - prepare to make an impression. One that starts the second you walk in… and lasts long after you walk out.