Now that it’s time for your interview- what are you going to wear? Some thought should be put into your attire. Dress conservatively for your interview. Think about the following variables when choosing an ensemble: location of the interview, type of facility (warehouse/ administrative building), closed toe shoe environment, etc.

If you are interviewing in a warehouse, you may not want to wear a high heels since you may have to take a facility tour on a concrete floor. This is also true if lots of standing is involved. Consider wearing closed toe shoes so that no matter the environment, you won’t have a safety violation. Choose shoes that you have worn before that are comfortable. During your interview you don’t want to appear distracted by sore feet. Although it may be humorous, that may not be one of the first conversations you want to have with a potential employer.

Dependent upon the type of facility and level of position you are interviewing for, a suit may not be required. Some facilities have a casual dress environment. You may still want to consider wearing a dress shirt and tie or a dress and sweater combination. Find items that speak to your personality but that are also reflective of the potential company value.

Things to remember:

• No matter what position- do NOT wear a T-shirt to the interview
• If you have various piercings, remember to remove them or cover them
• If possible, cover visible tattoos
• Make sure your hair is neat and professional
• Make sure your fingernails are uniform and clean
• Turn OFF your cellphone BEFORE you enter the facility

I am sure that by following these tips and others, your interviewing experience will be a success. Anticipate an offer letter within the week!!!!

As you begin to prepare for your interview, here are some tips that will aide in your success. There are a few things that you will need to do to prepare for your interview.

• What to wear
• What to bring
• How to communicate

In deciding what to wear to an interview consider several things. Where is the interview location- warehouse or an office building? How long is the interview scheduled to last -30 minutes, a few hours, all day? Regardless of the position you are interviewing for, your attire should reflect a professional and neat appearance. You should choose an ensemble that is both comfortable and practical. Select a pair of slacks and a long sleeve shirt. When selecting a pair of shoes, keep in mind that they need to be comfortable. Generally as the interview progresses, the employer may want to take you on a tour of the facility. If you are interviewing in a production or manufacturing environment, make sure that you wear closed toe shoes. Many facilities do not allow any open toe shoes on the warehouse floor.

Print out at least 5 new copies of your resume. You may not need all of those copies but you will be prepared. Generally the Interviewer will have printed your resume and reviewed it prior to the interview. However, as the interview progresses, you may find yourself interviewing with additional members of the management team. Store your resume copies, along with a new pen/pencil in your portfolio/notebook. Make sure that you have additional sheets or paper to take any necessary notes.

Before you enter the building for your interview, make sure that you turn your cellphone off. If you are unable to do that, make sure that you turn your phone on silent mode. Many candidates use the vibrate mode however, you can still hear the vibration off of anything in your pocket or purse.

From the moment you enter the building/facility, your interview has begun. As you enter the building, think positive thoughts. Greet the receptionist with a smile. Be pleasant and courteous throughout the entire process. As you sit in the waiting area, take the time to survey your surroundings. Is the lobby area filled with various décor items that tell you what the company’s values are? Are there any magazines or awards strategically placed? Take the time to look at these items. Do NOT take this time to review your emails or play games on your cellphone.  When you interview begins, make sure that you keep constant eye contact. Give the moderator clear and direct responses to the questions posed.
Your confidence will be expressed through your answers and mannerisms during the interview. Feel free to take notes and ask questions. This is an opportunity for the potential employer to gage your social skills as well. It will give them an idea of how you will potentially engage with your coworkers and management. Limit the discussions about your personal life. Keep them relevant to the interview questions. The most important thing you can do is be yourself.

TJ

A recent article I read on about.com mentioned that according to Kim Zoller at Image Dynamics, 55% of another person's perception of you is based on how you look. Believe it or not this is an issue; yes I know most of us know how to dress, but you’d be surprised at what individuals consider business professional or business casual. I get to attend various job fairs and they are fully loaded with fashion faux pas. Remember to always dress for success and dress for the role you want to eventually attain.

            Here are some tips Kim suggests:

Women's Interview Attire

• Solid color, conservative suit
• Coordinated blouse
• Moderate shoes
• Limited jewelry
• Neat, professional hairstyle
• Tan or light hosiery
• Sparse make-up & perfume
• Manicured nails
• Portfolio or briefcase

Men's Interview Attire

• Solid color, conservative suit
• White long sleeve shirt
• Conservative tie
• Dark socks, professional shoes
• Very limited jewelry
• Neat, professional hairstyle
• Go easy on the aftershave
• Neatly trimmed nails
• Portfolio or briefcase

You can use the above tips as your everyday work attire. So leave the tight, short skirts and sweat wear for other activities and step into your success potential!!

Until next time,

Vriginie