SUCCEED WITH STYLE: Getting Fired Up for an Interview

SUCCEED WITH STYLE: Getting Fired Up for an Interview

Fired? Down-sized? Laid off? Just graduated from college? No matter what your situation, the outcome is always the same: You need to look for a job. Unfortunately, just the thought of going through the interview process can lead to many sleepless nights. But the more prepared you are, the quicker you’ll land a new position. If you think you’re beyond this and all you need to do is prepare your resume, think again. The competition is fierce. And your resume is only HALF of the equation. Your communication skills, appearance and behavior make up the other half. In addition to experience, you also need to look and act the part. Fitting seamlessly into an organization and supporting a company’s brand image is an important component to landing a job in today’s economy.

The reason so many people fear a job interview it is because it often feels more like an interrogation process than a friendly business conversation. The good news is that you have total control over how you are perceived during a job interview. Everything you wear, say and do during an interview can make all the difference.

Tips for a winning interview:

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1. Research the company to find out what their culture, environment and brand are like. Go online and see if you can find photos of executives and then dress accordingly. Your goal is to demonstrate the unspoken rules of professional dress and to mirror the culture.

2. Wear a suit or coordinating separates in quality fabrics and dark colors that fit your body shape and size. You want to appear well dressed, genuine and comfortable.

3. Tailor your clothes to fit you perfectly. Jacket sleeves, pant and skirt hems need to fall at the right place for you to look polished and professional.

4. Pay attention to key details like polished shoes, manicured hands and accessories such as a quality tote, portfolio and pen.

5. Keep jewelry and watches understated. They should enhance your look, not detract from it.

6. Women: Wear make up that complements your complexion rather than covers it.

7. A professional hairstyle is essential for both men and women. Facial hair on men should be well groomed.

8. Brush up on your business etiquette. This speaks volumes especially if you are a newbie to the corporate world.

9. Be courteous to everyone you meet during your visit to the company, especially the receptionist!

10. Watch your body language. It can sabotage your success without you even knowing it.

Margaret Batting is the Corporate Style expert for GoLocalProv.com. Margaret is the owner and president of Elevé Image Consulting and the only certified image consultant and personal brand strategist in Rhode Island. She travels the country as the national corporate image consultant for CareerBuilder. For more information, visit www.eleve-style.com.