I'm going for a job interview, having been out of the work force for a while. What would you recommend I wear/buy?
It's about putting your best foot forward at every given opportunity. As sad as it sounds, you will be sized up by the interviewer within the first few seconds of them meeting you. You need to create the right impression. Of course, your credentials and what you go on to say during the interview will also be critical.
*Dress professionally and smart. Consider a dress or skirt/trousers and top with a blazer or smart cardigan.
*Use accessories to smarten your look.
*Choose your colours well - a colour that suits you and makes you glow and look healthy.
*Consider the type of job you are going for - dress appropriately. However, never wear super-casual clothing or footwear. Someone told me recently how she'd just interviewed a woman who turned up in jandals. It sends the wrong message to your prospective employer, it shows you don't care, even if that's not the case.
*Attention to detail is really important - these are the things that people pick up on:
*your hair
*makeup (if you wear it). If you don't wear makeup, consider a coloured lipgloss.
*fingernails and toenails (if they're in view) - manicured, clean and no chipped nail polish
*clean, polished shoes.
*Be yourself, not someone you think they want you to be. Invariably they'll see through it.
*Be well prepared - think in advance what they may ask you, have your answers thought through. Rehearse if necessary. And as uncomfortable as it may be, you are "selling" yourself - you're convincing someone that knows nothing about you, that you're the best person for the job.
*Be confident.
Send your questions for Lisa to regionalfeatures@apn.co.nz.
Lisa Lyford is the founder of Gorgeous Me, free DIY personal styling and makeover advice. www.gorgeousme.co.nz.
