Tips and Tricks: Interviews

I wanted to write about something we all have to deal with, no matter what our majors or careers are- interviews. I don't think anybody loves interviews, they're a necessary part of getting a job. And one of the most important parts of interviewing is how you dress.

The days of wearing a business suit to work every day for every job are long gone, as new, modern offices pop up and the workplace becomes more casual. At my internship at The Daily Beast last summer, I could get away with wearing jeans!

But for interviews, where first impressions play a huge role in getting a job, dressing to impress is vital. Even if the person asking questions is wearing jeans and a t-shirt, you don't want to do the same. The old saying, "Dress for the job you want, not the job you have," doesn't apply to interviews.

Black is usually best. You don't need to pull out a suit (though it's safe), but at least have a blazer with trousers or an appropriate length skirt. For your shirt, a button-up blouse, with absolutely NO cleavage showing, will usually do best, or a modest cami with your jacket buttoned.

For shoes, make sure they aren't something you would wear to a club. One to four inches is pretty much the range you should stay in, but the lower the heel the safer you are. Flats are acceptable for more casual jobs, such as interviewing for a retail job or a more casual internship.

A recent trend I've noticed for interviews is riding boots. While I'm not a fan of riding boots with jeans for interviews, though that is one of my favorite looks for every day, here is an example of how to style riding boots for an interview and still look professional. This is my look for my Pride Guide interview at school (I got the job, by the way!).

Blazer, Forever 21. Sweater, Michael Kors (vintage). Skirt, H&M. Tights, Betsey Johnson. Knee high socks, Target. Boots, Target. Necklace, Tiffany & Co.

As you can see, I went with a fabric skirt instead of a pencil skirt, but it's still long enough to be work appropriate. The all-black look on the bottom keeps everything professional but still cute. It was freezing out, so I opted for a light sweater instead of a button up, with the blazer thrown over for an added touch.

Jewelry should be kept simple and to a minimum. Pearls or small pendants like this one are best, and studs are always safe. 

For makeup, be simple. For hair, I usually curl mine with hot rollers. Straight hair or large ballerina buns- not too high!- are fine as well.

There is no exact outfit to wear for an interview. If you're desperate, skirt suits are always safe! I hope you've enjoyed my first post! Look out for more, and follow me on Bloglovin!