Lifestyle Opinions

by Alyssa Velasquez

Looking for a job now that school is out?

Or

Have you scheduled an interview and feel terrified of going?

We’ve all been there.

I’m gonna give you some tips on how to stay calm, cool, and collected during your first [or last] interview.

1. Overdress v Underdress

With non-professional jobs like retail associates or student workers, the employer may not have a restricted dress code, but no matter if the job requires a uniform or not,

ALWAYS DRESS PROFESSIONALLY FOR AN INTERVIEW!!

Do not wear sneakers.

Do not wear hoodies.

Do not wear sandals.

I made a mistake for my first in-person interview wearing my high-top platform Converse.

Though that may not seem like a big deal, presentation is everything when it comes to an interview. It’s the first impression that the supervisor/manager/hiring team sees about you.

You want to dress to impress. To show that you are professional and can be taken seriously. 

You’re going to want to wear a blazer of some kind. Depending on the style of the blazer, you can wear a basic blouse or tank top underneath with dress pants. If you don’t have dress pants, maybe a professional long skirt would be a good way to style your outfit.

Dress shoes are essential. Keep away from open-toed dress shoes if possible. 

In my opinion, short wedges look nice and are easier to walk in compared to heels. 

The next thing to think about is hair. 

I would 100% recommend ironing or styling your hair in any way you prefer.

Hair is such a big factor in presentation. It can literally change your appearance.

Then, I would say make-up.

If you don’t wear make-up, that’s fine, maybe focusing more on hygiene will be more up your alley. 

If you do, I would recommend having something simple but classy. But, whatever you deem comfortable.

There is also the alternative of wearing a suit for anyone who feels comfortable wearing that instead of women’s clothing.

A bow tie or regular tie would be appropriate and dress shoes are also a must. 

Add on a nice watch or bracelet for accessories. 

2. Boujee on a Budget

It may seem that work clothing is expensive, and it can be, but there are ways around getting nice, cheap dress clothes.

So far, all my dress clothes have been purchased at thrift stores or I got them for free.

I thrifted at my local Savors and Platos Closet. Any thrift store should have a selection of both men’s and women’s dress clothes. 

The community college I attended had a “Career Closet”, where students can get two free professional outfits each semester by signing in with their student ID number. 

Check out your local thrift stores or college campus for more information. 

3. Practice your interpersonal/public speaking/communication skills

If you have good experience in communication and public speaking, then I feel the best way to practice your answers and your body language is for them to come out naturally, but professionally. 

For those who are a little less experienced can look up potential questions for an interview and practice their answers in front of a mirror or record themselves and work on their progress.

Body language is often the hardest one to follow.

You don’t want to be stiff and nervous but also not careless and cocky.

You want to be confident and professional. 

Watching videos on Youtube is not embarrassing at all. 

Okay… maybe it’s a little cringy, but hey, if it’s gonna help you ace that Interview,  I think it’s worth the 10-second cringe. 

Watch these two videos I recommend for more tips and information:

• Interview Tips to Get the Job | 5 Things You Need to Ace the Interview
• HOW to PREPARE for a JOB INTERVIEW in under 10 MINUTES!! 

Conclusion:

Lastly, I know it’s hard to shake off nerves, but just take a deep breath and relax. 

The worst thing that could happen is for the company to say “Thank you for your time” and they don’t call you back. But, don’t get discouraged, there are plenty of other job opportunities waiting for you. Just be patient.