Radcliff freshman Erik Martinez’s chances of getting a job diminished when he wore jeans to a job interview for Abercrombie and Fitch. After several minutes of interviewing, he was told he did not fit the mold.

“Let’s just say I was not what they were looking for,” Martinez said.

What Martinez did not know was appearance makes the first impression during an interview. It is important to project an image of success and to look the part, said Lana VanMeter, office manager of Dr. Phillip VanMeter, periodontist.

Interviewers look for personality, intelligence, a good sense of humor and honesty during an interview. They discover this through questions covering qualifications, desire to work and previous work experience, said Joe Taylor, an accountant for Joe W. Taylor CPAs.

Most interviewers have been in the business long enough to know when someone is lying. Therefore, telling an interviewer what he or she wants to hear won’t work, VanMeter said.

Interviewers also are looking for someone who truly wants to work for them. They base this upon preparation, presentation and excitement, said attorney Michael Bratcher, of Bratcher and Bratcher LLP.

An interviewee can show he or she really wants to work for the potential employer by asking appropriate, job-related questions and appearing interested, VanMeter said.

Eye contact also shows one is comfortable and confidant, Taylor added.

Many interviewees make the mistake of talking about politics during an interview. It initiates unneeded conversation, and the employer will question the interviewee’s judgment, Bratcher said.

Interviewees should set up mock interviews, where they answer questions and learn to express their ideas to better prepare themselves. Many interviewers look for individuals who can articulate themselves because contact with clients or coworkers is inevitable, Bratcher said.

Ultimately, interviewers look for someone they feel comfortable letting clients be around. If an interviewer does not feel comfortable during the interview, chances are the interviewee won’t get hired, Bratcher said.

Reach Angelika Masero at features@wkuherald.com.