Job Interview Ideas

Jul 18, 2014

Venus W.

I got a second job interview at playland (PNE) which is like a fair with rides. This wil be a one on one interview. What are some outfit and makeup ideas? Any interview advice would also be greatly appreciated! thanks :)

Jul 18, 2014

Qwaserght T.

Maybe put your hair in a bun or braid and do simple makeup with a bright lip color.

Jul 18, 2014

Becky J.

I disagree going with a bright lip colour. You don't want your make up to speak before you do. Go very natural (Lisa Eldridge has a lot of "everyday" make up tutorials that would be appropriate)

For clothes go for either a nice dress or trousers and a blouse.

For general advice don't be afraid to ask for them to repeat a question. And if they offer you a drink then take it! It's a brilliant way to give yourself a bit of extra thinking time. Feeling stressed? Take a sip of water to collect your thoughts.

Best of luck.

Jul 18, 2014

Hannah K.

Under any circumstances, do NOT wear jeans.

Jul 18, 2014

Diana T.

I agree with Becky - you don't want your clothes or makeup to make the wrong statement - so neutral colors / natural makeup is always best and tying your hair back usually help you look more polished and put together - and you can wear jeans in this job interview (since that is what you will probably wear to work) but dark washes look more professional - just don't wear leggings as pants or jeggings that would be a big offense... Otherwise just wear a nice blouse or button up shirt in a neutral color and you should be good - also heels make you look more professional as well but if you are not comfortable you can wear flats.

Jul 19, 2014

Ivanna O.

Yeah I agree with Diana. It depends on what you are applying for. Sometimes its okay to where jeans at an inteview. I got my job in the deli at my local heathfood store and wore jeans to the interview. But I still put effort in my outfit. I call it "polished casual". I wore a nice blouse, light jeans and a black jacket. and had nice makeup.

Jul 19, 2014

duffs g.

I just had an interview yesterday and I got the job. I wore my hair straightened, black top n gray pants, mascara n light eyeliner, n nude color on nails!
good luck! show your confident in handling all tasks, shake hands firmly, n smile :-)

Jul 19, 2014

Emily W.

I've had many interviews and interviewed many people myself, so I have quite a few tips...

- NO DENIM. EVER. It is NOT appropriate interview attire, no matter what cut or wash. Always dress professionally for an interview, no matter if it is at McDonald's or the Ritz. The manager took time out of their schedule to speak with you, dressing professional is a sign of respect for their position and their time. Even if you'll be wearing jeans at work, you still dress professionally for the interview.

- Sleek hair kept out of the face. A loose bun (not a severe top knot) or ponytail is considered the most professional. If you choose to leave your hair down, use a plain headband to keep it out of your face.

- Blouses should cover the shoulders and cleavage. No loud colors or patterns. A blazer is great, but can get very hot so if you take it off be sure your shirt is appropriate.

- Pants: for a more casual interview, clean khaki dress pants are appropriate. Otherwise, black, grey or navy slacks or a skirt (hemline at least to the knee, NO SHORTER) and in flattering, loose fits. Nothing skinny, tight, rouched, short, etc. If necessary, wear a belt. You don't want to be hitching up your britches every couple minutes.

- Shoes: low heels or flats are standard. No stilettos, platforms, or wedges. Closed-toe only. Generally black, blue, or brown solid color (depending on your outfit).

- Jewelry: simple is best. A plain necklace, stud earrings, or a plain bracelet. No large rings, "statement" pieces, excessively dangling earrings. No facial jewelry (except a small nose stud IF and ONLY IF required by your religion). All others should be removed for the interview. Ear piercings should be limited to just the lowest holes (aka earlobes). If the job allows other piercings, you can wear them to work once you've been hired.

- Makeup: think vanilla, bland, professional, and sedate. Just foundation, mascara, lip gloss. Polished natural. No bright lips, no dramatic eyeliner (including any type of wing).

- Nails: clean and trimmed. If you do wear polish, a natural pink (not bright) is appropriate, or a simple French manicure. No glitter, no nail art, no bright colors or dark colors. Nails should be short and rounded or squoval, no hard squares or points. Make sure your cuticles don't have hangnails and your hands are moisturized.

This all sounds very drab and boring, but it serves a purpose. You want the interviewer to focus on your resume and your discussion during the interview, not what you are wearing or your makeup. The first impression should be that you are well put together and that you are a serious candidate (unlike someone who shows up in jeans, which is disrespectful and shows either lack of care or lack of experience). After you start speaking, all focus should be the interview itself. Remember that it is a discussion, not an interrogation. You are allowed to ask questions--you are interviewing them to see if you would like the position too! Have an idea about some of the common interview questions, and make sure you have some good ones to ask them. Research the company and how you would fit into that picture. Don't forget to smile! If you are nervous, just make sure you don't start rambling (or go too quiet).

Some of my favorite questions to ask my interviewer (or questions I have been asked that stood out):

- Can you describe the culture of the company? Is it competitive, laid back...?

- What do you look for in an excellent employee?

- (Depending on the job and location) Can you describe what security measures are in place? (This is particularly relevant if you'll be working alone or late at night).

Good luck!

Jul 19, 2014

Venus W.

Thank you girls for helping and Emily for long list of points!

Jul 20, 2014

Tia B.

Outfit I wore to a previous (successful) job interview was: white dress shirt, olive high waisted pants, navy blazer, and brown flats.