After months of searching for a job, I am so excited to say that this recent graduate has her first full-time, grown up job! It’s been a long process of hunting down the right jobs and hearing back from potential employers. I probably applied to over 100 job postings, and I heard back from less than 5 people. Don’t be discouraged if you’re going through the same thing. This transition from college student to entering adulthood has been an interesting experience. With the encouragement and support of my family, friends and boyfriend I am one a step closer to my goals!

When I got my first email about a phone interview I was both ecstatic and overwhelmed! It felt like forever since I had an interview, and I didn’t want to mess this one up. The key to a great interview, at least from what I learned, is to be yourself. People will know when you’re being phony. Just be yourself, and prepare for as many questions you think they might ask like “tell me about yourself, what are your strengths/weaknesses, where do you get your news from?” Also, do plenty of research about the company you might be working with. How embarrassing would it be if you had no idea what the company was about? I mean, if you really want to work there, then you should have some interest in learning about their brand.

****

You guys, I was so thrilled when I was told to do an in-person interview within a week from having my phone interview. I was extremely nervous and overly prepared myself for the second interview. I wanted to stand out, while also being the best version of myself. When I went in for my interview, the team was fantastic! They were all great, intelligent women who made me want to learn and work with them. I think that’s how you know the company is an awesome, inspiring place to be. I was just so happy to meet with the team and even more exhilarated when I got the job!

****

I know that job hunting can be stressful, and I definitely know that preparing for an interview can be overwhelming. I want to share with you how I got ready the morning of my interview. Remember when you look good, you feel good and when you feel good, well, you can do just about anything you set your mind to!

Getting Ready:

1. Take Notes

Don’t forget to take notes when looking up information about the company or preparing for questions they may ask. It’s also best to take a look at your résumé and think of experiences you had that really helped you refine your skills or any mistakes you made that you learned from. Try to print out 2-3 copies for the day of the interview. They are busy people and who knows how many people they are interviewing that day! Always be ready.

2. Make-Up

I love putting on make-up, but I didn’t want to over do it, either. You aren’t going to a club, your face should look refreshed and polished. You want the interviewer(s) to focus on your personality, and what you can bring to the table. Having bold lipstick or too much eyeshadow can really be a distraction. The main focus should be on you, not your poor choice of glittery eye makeup. I went for a subtle look. Putting on a bit of mascara, using some concealer to hide my blemishes and using a lip-stained colored lipstick to give my lips a touch of pink.

Products:

• Urban Decay: Naked 2 (used Foxy and Booty Call shades)
• Bare Minerals: Original
• Mac: Blush (can work as a bronzer, too)
• Benefit Cosmetics: They’re Real Mascara 
• NYX: Powdered Blush
• CoverGirl: Ready, Set Gorgeous! 
• Wet n Wild: Lipstick (Dark Wine)
• Rimmel: Lip Liner (East-end Snob)

3. Hair

I usually don’t like to put on hairspray, but for an interview it’s a must. Don’t put too much. You don’t want to smell like a hair salon. Put enough to keep your hair in place and to keep the frizzy fly aways from going crazy. I lightly curled my hair and used the bobby pins to pin my bangs back, giving them a natural wave once I finished curling my hair.

Products:

• Not Your Mother’s: She’s a Tease
• CHI Ceramic Hairstyling Flat Iron
• Bobby Pins (you can get anywhere!)

4. Finishing Touches

When you don’t have enough time to book a nail appointment the nail strips are a life saver. They are literally handy for fast and chic nail colors. I even received a compliment! I used a touch of pink nail polish for my toes, too. Don’t forget about your feet, especially if you plan on wearing open toed shoes. I added just a quick spray of perfume to finish my outfit. Again, you don’t want to put on too much perfume and scare away your interviewer.

Products:

• Sally Hansen Salon Effects: Real Nail Polish Strips
• Wet n Wild: Wild Shine Nail Color (Tickled Pink)
• Juicy Couture: La La Perfume

5. Ready to Impress

My blazer makes enough of a statement, that I went minimal with my white undershirt and jeans. My shoes added a touch of color, and were very comfy. Your interview outfit should make you feel great! Don’t wear something that makes you uncomfortable, it might show in your interview.

 

****

I want to know how you prepare for an interview and what you do to prepare! Share your thoughts below.