First impressions count. Is your professional image enhancing or hindering your chances for success? This is the question, Marion Gellatly, a certified image master in Pebble Beach, isn’t afraid to ask. And you can believe it is what every hiring manager is mentally assessing during the interview.

Every interaction with a potential employer is an opportunity to build or destroy a positive impression.

Are your marketing materials, (resume, cover letter, thank you letter, reference list) clear, concise and error-free? They had better be. Your résumé is lucky to get a 30-second review before being relegated to the “yes” or “no” pile. The résumé is the most widely recognized job search marketing tool, so it must represent you well.

But your professional image goes beyond written materials. It includes your voice, your clothing, smile and overall presentation. It pays to evaluate yourself in each of these areas. To help you do that, I spoke with professionals who offered ideas and advice for enhancing your image and improving your success ratio.

How do you come across when answering the telephone? Speech pathologist, Francine Hilaire of Monterey says listeners make a decision about your competence, social status, professionalism and intellect within seconds when talking with you on the telephone.

Hilaire suggests holding your chin upward when speaking on the phone as it allows air to flow more freely, enabling you to project a clearer voice. Standing and looking into a mirror while on the phone will also help you project greater confidence and enthusiasm.

While Gellatly is quick to say, “Image isn’t everything,” she is equally quick to point out, “it’s just what everyone notices.”

Is your image enhancing or hindering your job search? It’s time to take a look in the mirror. Haven’t updated your hair since high school? Still applying makeup with a spatula?

What about that 1980s jacket and tie? What do these say about your ability to rapidly respond to changes in the workplace, your commitment to staying current with new technology, or your willingness to stretch and grow in your job?

Gellatly said, “the most important aspects of your image are the 12 inches from the top of your head to your shoulders.”

Think about that for a minute. Where are hiring managers likely to focus during an interview? Your face! You can be sure those twelve inches will play a pivotal role in your conversation.

Speaking of the interview conversation, 92 percent of respondents in a recent survey commissioned by the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry said that an attractive smile is an important social asset. Feeling comfortable enough to smile during an interview demonstrates confidence and gives you an advantage.

Monterey dentist Jeanette Kern believes that your smile says a lot about you. A healthy smile may say, “I take care of myself” which could mean,” I won’t be missing work because of illness.” Or, she looks “kind and friendly,” so she’ll probably be “easy to work with and customers will like her.”

Kern says fresh breath, clean white teeth and healthy pink gums project an image of health and success.

Take heed of these suggestions from health and wellness professionals to create a more powerful impression during your next interview.