Break It Down!

This is the third and final blog post in a series of three titled “Nailing the Interview.” Check out the previous two: Suit Up! and Prep up!.

You've suited up, prepped, and now it’s time to close the deal! Follow these tips for the actual interview and hopefully you won’t experience a rejection quite like this:

Don’t be late, obviously. I know this is easier said then done but take traffic into consideration and allow some additional time to find the office or reception area of where you need to be. 15 minutes early is perfect.

Spit out or swallow the gum you've been chewing to freshen your breath. Try switching to tics tacs that you can finish in one bite.

You’re not going to the club, so go easy on the cologne or perfume.

Bring a list of a few references in case your interviewer requests contact information.

Be gracious to everyone; the receptionist may have an important say in who gets hired.

Remember to bring a pen and notepad to take down notes during the interview and write out answers to questions you prepared after reading this.

Don’t break their hand or turn it into a competition, but provide a firm handshake.

Repeat his or her name subtly after being introduced. It shows that you are paying attention and interested in what he or she has to offer.

Don’t lie or distort prior work experience. Focus on your core strengths and achievements during your time with that specific job.

We all care about the price tag regardless of what Jessie J sings, but do not bring up compensation and benefits too soon. This is more appropriate on a second or third interview.

Try to come across as confident and determined. Feel free to talk about yourself but always direct comments towards the job description to avoid coming off as pompous.

Eye contact is a must. If more than one employer is interviewing you, make sure you reach out to each individual in the interview.

Ask for a business card to stay in touch and remember to send a follow-up appreciation email or letter.

Keep searching for job opportunities; two is definitely better than one. Worse case scenario, you have to turn a job down.

After dressing for success, making the necessary preparations, and remembering those few tips, you’re bound to nail that interview. Good luck!

Suit Up!

Saturday’s Gasparilla dress code: Eye patch is a must, grab a few beads from last year to get ahead of the game, throw on that shirt you strategically cut up weeks in advance, and maybe use that bandanna you would never wear any other day of the year.

Now that we've hopefully taken off the eye patch or most likely lost it in Saturday’s chaos and proudly mounted our beads on the wall to document a day we scarcely remember, it is time to start putting just as much time and effort into planning what we wear for an interview in a business setting.

First impressions are everything. That line has been drilled into our minds since we started making friends on the playground. Don’t push Jessica off the swing or she won’t invite you to her birthday party, and you could kiss that goodie bag goodbye. In college, the best thing we can do to make a strong first impression is to present ourselves professionally or we can say goodbye to that job offer too.

Ladies and gentlemen, always suit up for an interview. 

It not only tells the world you mean business, but I am a firm believer in if you look good, you’ll feel good. It gives you that extra boost of confidence and that little pep in your step. Trust me, just the positive comments from friends on campus are enough to feel like a boss.

Ideally, invest in a suit that is 100% wool; it’s breathable fabric means you’ll sweat less and be more comfortable, even in the hot seat. The worst is when you can literally feel sweat dripping somewhere on your body. Gross, yes. True, you bet.  A suit with fancy Nikes or high tops will send mixed signals. You’re not going for the ‘I’m classy, but I’m here to party club vibe’, until the weekend of course. Put your best foot forward. Aim for a solid, basic, and recently polished shoe and closed toed for you ladies.

Make it your own. Feel free to add some stylish accessories, depending on how conservative the environment may be. Always match your belt with your shoes. Cuff links and jewelry can help you stand out and add a little sophistication to your overall look. Guys, shoot for a power tie: a bold red or gold will be your best bet.

Final reminders:

Wear high dress socks so your legs aren't exposed when you cross them.

Wear a watch. I can barely tell time on a regular watch, but it’s pretty fashionable.

Always leave the bottom button of your coat unbuttoned and unbutton your coat completely whenever you sit down.

Have the outfit pressed and ready to go the night before.

This is the first blog in a series of three titled “Nailing the Interview.”

Video found here