Impression management: implementations for selection

Applicants who attempt to influence the impressions that others form of them are said to be engaging in impression management (IM). 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. By understanding and recognizing IM behaviors, employers may be better able to identify when IM is being used as well as the occasions when they should be doing a better job of utilizing it themselves.