Interviewing for a new job can be a grueling ordeal for some people and especially for millennials. Approaching the interview process with a plan can alleviate some of the stress.
If you know what to expect at your millennial job interview, what to watch for, and how you are expected to act, then part of the mystery is removed and the stress with it. Ridding yourself of stress makes you more confident and a more appealing candidate. This post is all about the millennial job interview – The good first impression.
How do you eliminate stress from the interview? You don’t but you can reduce it to manageable levels. Do your homework well ahead of time. Know something about the company and the position you are applying for. Then, follow these tricks for making a good impression during your interview and success is within your grasp.
Be Positive. This applies to more than your disposition. It helps to have a sunny disposition as no one wants to work with a cranky person all the time. Being positive is more than just smiling brightly through the interview.
It means not speaking negatively about past companies or supervisors you’ve worked for. To do so casts you in less than favorable light no matter how valid your complaints might have been. Be as advisable as you possibly can be. This is also in your employer’s interest.
Be Adaptable. Let the interviewer take the lead and pay attention to his style. Is he relaxed and laid back or particularly formal? What does the interview area look like? Is it neat and organized or disheveled?
These observations can help you make last-minute adjustments in your own style of presentation and that might be just what you need to sail through the interview. See if telecommuting is possible and if you are an independent type, tell that you are willing to get further education, perhaps through online courses.
Be Encouraging. Encourage the interview to talk more openly about the company, its operations, its policies, and its achievements. This is especially important if you’re looking for a career change. The interviewer will likely want you to know about your current position. The more information you can glean, the more you can tailor your responses when you are on the answering end of the questions.
You will come across as enthusiastic and interested something every employer wants from potential employees. If you are in doubt about yourself or your preparedness, don’t hesitate to ask somebody for help and if you can find a powerful female mentor, please be wise and take that opportunity immediately.
Be Prepared. This is a big one and covers a lot of ground. Not only should you look your best, but everything about your time in front of the interviewer should tell him that you took the time to prepare carefully because this is important to you.
Bring extra copies of your resume and show that your education was impactful. If you are required to show certification in specific areas, bring copies of those too. Bring references in case you are asked for them. Do your homework and be prepared for the tough questions.
The Job Interview – How To Dress
You know by now that, like it or not, a lot of how we’re seen by the world depends on our appearance. This is certainly true of a job interview, no matter how casual the employment may be.
You have one chance and one chance only to make a first and lasting impression. Your clothing, hair, makeup, and jewelry should reflect the best you possible. Also, military job seekers should keep this in mind. They will know what it is to dress for a parade or action, but the world of business is different. So read on to learn how to dress for the job interview.
How do you know what is appropriate attire? The person in the suit and tie is going to make a better first impression than the candidate in the torn jeans and faded t-shirt because taking the time to dress well says something about how important this job is to you. It gives your potential employer his first glimpse at how you operate and they all want to hire the best talent. What to Wear is key. You only have one chance to make a good first impression!
• A traditional suit, preferably in a dark color such as black, navy blue or gray, skirt or slacks
• Skirts should not be so short that sitting down causes embarrassment or discomfort
• Conservative shoes
• Neutral colored nylons
• Light, clean-looking make up
• Hair that is cut and styled
• Trimmed nails
What to Avoid
• Loud colors or patterns, or clothing with wording or promotions on them. Infomercials don’t work anyway
• Inappropriate clothing that is too tight, too short, or exposes too much cleavage
• Cheap, excessive, and dangling jewelry. Limit to simple earrings, a ring, and a watch
• Heavy goth-type makeup, unusual hair colors
• Inappropriate footwear – either worn and scuffed shoes or spiked heels
Other Tips for Interview Attire
Like it or not, many employers frown on piercings and tattoos. Remove any piercings other than earrings for the interview and be sure to find out the company (and the boss’s) policy on these at work. Cover any exposed tattoos for the interview.
While employers are becoming more relaxed about these adornments, some still have issues, particularly in sales positions, fearing they will make some customers uncomfortable. You should also update your online social media profile as most recruiting agencies and employers will be screening job applicants online as well.
Don’t show up smoking, chewing gum, or carrying a coffee or soda into the interview. Learn about how recruiting companies work. Make sure your cell phone is turned off or set to vibrate. The idea is nothing should distract the interviewer form from noticing you and what you can bring to the job. Paying attention to the power of your education and tuition is crucial as well
Preparation Tips
If you haven’t worn your interview outfit for a while, try it on ahead of time. Make sure it still fits, that all the buttons and zippers work, and that it has no tears or stains. If need be, have it dry cleaned, repaired and pressed, well in advance of the interview date.
Polish your shoes and lay everything out the night before. You don’t want to be late because you had to spend time at the last minute locating a lost shoe or buying nylons you thought you had. Make sure the interviewer is impressed by your resume and that you are ready to further your education and develop your skills via online courses!