Sunday, August 25, 2013

How to rock an interview! +WHAT TO WEAR, HAIR, AND MAKEUP




My first job was at an office. I was 18 with zero experience yet there I was at a green energy nonprofit, as an intern, with my very own office space! I was so proud of myself! Even more proud that as scared to bits as I was to go to the interview for that job, I walked in with my head up high and cruised right through it. Didn't even flinch. It was a group interview with myself and two guys a few years older than me with a lot of experience. I can go on and on about my first job experience some other time... One thing though is that after a promotion it was a part of my old job to take part in the interviewing process. So I've learned a lot about what interviewers look for. But today I wanna share some tips on how to conduct yourself and dress appropriately for an informal interview!

Before we get into the fun fashion stuff here's those tips I promised you. Just know that I am no expert nor am I a fashionista or even a Maxxinista (high-five for tj maxx though lol)  I've compiled a short list of tips to share with you that have always worked for me. Hopefully this can help you too!

Away we go! 

  1. First thing's first, even if you don't necessarily have total confidence (in your appearance, abilities, or just talking with a potential employer) Honey you better fake it til you make it!
  2. Eye contact, firm handshake, and good posture.
  3. Breathe + slow down. A lot of times we tend to either talk way to fast or ramble on and on out of nervousness. Just remember to pause, not too long. A second or two of 'reflection' after each question won't hurt.
  4. Also, no fidgeting! Keep your hands out of your hair! Just don't do it. It's a tell-tale sign that your totally uncomfortable.
  5. This one should be done long before interview day: research and familiarize yourself with the company. You never want your potential employer to think this is just some random job for you and you don't know (or care to know) anything about them. Even if that's the case- they shouldn't be able to tell! 
  6. For embarrassing/awkward questions you don't want to ask in person, call! But here's how to do it... call a different location. i.e. you want to know what the pay is like, call a different location, maybe even use a fake name, ask any employee willing to answer, no one will ever know!
  7. Have a few questions ready for your interviewer. Not only does this further showcase your genuine interest, but also that you personable. And I guarantee your interviewer will be impressed!
  8. Never say anything negative or feel the need to list all of your weaknesses. I'm not telling you to lie, just learn to play those things up as strengths.

Now for the main event! (and my favorite part!)


Here I put together four outfits: two dressed-down for casual interviews and two dressed-up for formal interviews.
  • Always always ALWAYS iron your clothes
  • Don't wear anything too busy, bright, or distracting
  • Accessories and jewelry are fine, but keep to a minimum
  • Have fun with it! Let your personality show through your clothes

  Shoes are just as important as the rest of your outfit.They can say, Hey! I'm creative! Or they can say I'm a laid-back kinda girl, or a classy professional girl. Or... you can have dirty scuffed up shoes that say idc what I look like, just gimmie a job.
  • Make sure they are clean and mark-free
  • Don't wear anything too uncomfortable or hard to stand in
  • Closed toe is always best
  • Higher is NOT better, 3-4 inches max


 Again, accessories are fine when kept to a minimum.


 Hair is best kept out of your face. If you have fringe that's fine. But beware of cowlicks!!!
Makeup should be fresh and clean. Unless you're applying to be a makeup artist... The rules change a little bit there.
For me, this hair+makeup is pretty much my go-to for the past two years!



I actually had my very own job interview this morning! After months of job hunting it really feels great to finally land one :) I'll be sure to let yall know when I hear back!!!


If there's anything that you'd like me to talk more about, or anything with interviews and such let me know! I'd be more than happy to do another interview or job-related post!

 

What are some of your interview tips and tricks? Please do share, I would love to know! 

 

I hope this was useful for you ;)




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4 comments:

  1. I like with the blazer, the first shirt with the belt I think it's not the best option.
    But thanks for the tips.
    xo
    About women and not only Blog

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  2. Omg thank you so much Marlen<3 I'm so happy you liked it!!
    LOL i know what you mean, surprisingly they really do want you to ask them things!
    I found that if you just search "questions to ask interviewers" on google or pinterest there are TONSSS of little question lists that are really great to use.

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  3. Great tips! I always have to do the slow down and breath thing. And I love the blazer outfit! Super cute!
    -Jamie
    ChatterBlossom

    ReplyDelete