So for most of you following my blog you know that I just moved to Jacksonville, FL in search of a permanent job! I have been on several interviews lately, and felt compelled to write a blog about what TO wear in an interview and what NOT to wear. Obviously, we are in a recession, so I see myself against tons of other candidates during my job interviews. While in the waiting room or during a group interview, I can't help my fashionista side and scope out my competition's outfits. I have seen some head-turners, good and bad. So I've come up with a list of do's and along with some don'ts for your average "classy" interview.
DO:
(for women)
1. Wear a solid black, grey, or blue dress pant (with a white shirt) or dress (make sure it's only 2 inches above the knee).
2. WEAR HEELS- interviews are usually less then an hour, so deal with the pain and look like a lady.
3. Do your hair (spend at least 15 minutes trying to do it, and put a smoother in it)
4. Do your makeup (at MINIMUM wear foundation, blush, lipstick/gloss, and mascara). Do not look like you're about to go to the club though, think makeup you'd wear to church.
5. If wearing pants, wear one's that are your size, not too small or tight. No large pockets, no details, and of a professional fabric. You can find affordable pants at Kohl's, Belk, Macy's, JCPenny's etc. Just ask an employee there.
6. Nude Bra. I can not tell you how many strange colored bras I have seen under women's outfits. If you're wearing a very thick fabric dress, and your straps don't show, then wear what you want. But, if your straps have ANY chance of showing, then wear a nude bra, especially if wearing a white shirt.
7. Bring a solid, nice looking, black or white bag. You can find a cheap, but nice one at TJMaxx, Ross, or Marshall's.
DO's: Men:
1. Pick 1 solid color and stick with it. Wear black or blue pants with a solid color (I suggest white) collared shirt. Make sure you iron your pants, they are not too baggy, are of professional material, and wear a belt.
2.Get a haircut.
3. Wear dress hoes- Black is your only option.
4. Tuck in your shirt. This is not a football game, tuck in your shirt and look like you want the job.
5. No polo, no khaki's, no sunglasses, etc. This is not the beach. If the company dress code is casual then wear casual when you land the job.
6. If you must have facial hair, then whip out those trimmers and spend at least 15 minutes making it look good. Pretend you are going out with the hottest girl in your life... look that good. If you can, just shave it off. Women like it better, and you look better.
7. Bring a briefcase to hold your extra resumes or things you need. If you don't feel comfortable with that, then try to bring a minimum amount of things, and lower the weight of your wallet. Bring a folder for your resumes, 1 pen, etc.
8. If you look in the mirror before you leave and your outfit is ok to go do yard work, go to a football game, or for a grill out... go change.
Well, hopefully these tips from my experiences will help others to look and feel their best. We are in recession people, so being on top of your game is the only way to stand out from the crowd! If you have the talent, match it with your appearance and the job will be yours!
