Miss Judgy Pants is Judging You. (How to make a good first impression at an interview)

Hello there!

Today's post is out of the norm. We're currently hiring at my place of work and I've had the joy of watching resumes and interviewees present themselves to our establishment. Some come prepared, but others are not making the right impression At least, to me they're not! We are a professional office that is looking for someone to be a great first impression to our clients. Many people, including myself, are visual, and at times, how you present yourself is the only chance you have to wow your future employer. Since most people find themselves work in an office, I have prepared some tips on how to better groom your resume and self into the newly-hired awesome person you are!

Disclaimer: I am in no way claiming to be a guru or expert in the hiring process. The following are observations I have made over the years. 

1. Proofread your resume!
Suck at spelling? Most word processors have spell-check. Use it. Beware of grammar too. Check for capitalizations, punctuation and word usage. Don't try to sound too smart.
Have a friend read your resume over. They'll likely see things you've missed.

2. Pay attention to the detail!
Again, when proofreading your resume, make sure you're consistent with formatting and that your sentence construction makes sense. Nothing says "I don't really care about this job" than handing out a sloppy resume full of errors.

3. Tailor your resume to the job you're applying for.
Worked at McDonald's when you were 15 and now you're 32 and looking for a job as an Office Assistant? Yeah, your new boss doesn't care, unless you still have free fry hook-ups. Pull out relevant and applicable skills from your work experience. This makes you look more suited for the position.
Also, personalize your cover letter and resume to the establishment. This makes your resume look less "run of the mill" and that you're actually interested in the position. 
 
4. Do not hand out your resume in jeans or any other casual clothing.
 No. Do not. But they're a dark wash jeans! No.
Okay, there may be some exceptions, but in most cases... No. This also includes flip-flops, sleeveless tops, low cut tops and anything else you'd consider wearing to the beach or to the bar. Unless perhaps you're hoping for that nights-only job as a stripper, then maybe the above are good choices.

5. Dress for the job you want, not the one you've got. 
See tips in #1. Struggling financially and need dress pants? Borrow from a friend, check out the Thrift Shop or seek out an employment agency that gives/lends out work appropriate clothing. It makes a huge difference! Find something that suits your style, but is office appropriate. You still need to let yourself shine through! I find it really disappointing to see someone who shows up for an interview looking like they rolled out of bed or didn't bother to dress up for the occasion. Oh, and brush your hair.

6. Show or hide tattoos/piercings?
I am in no way against tattoos or piercings. I am a big fan of body art, especially when it is done well. However, not everyone is on board with tats or various holes. If possible, scope out the place before your interview and see if there are tattoos visible. No? Cover 'em up appropriately for your interview. When in doubt, ask at the interview what is acceptable. More companies are lenient on tattoos and piercings these days, but I think its best to let your personality show. It's better to bring up your art verbally than show up and have your employer think you're a delinquent punk. You may not find your "Believe" wrist tattoo to be offensive, but some people do! Again, I do not, but first impressions are crucial! 

7. Arrive early/on-time to your interview.
Self-explanatory.



8. Arrive with a cheery disposition. 
Not an overly-bubbly person? Doesn't matter. Show up with a smile. Be polite too.
To whomever you first encounter at the establishment, introduce yourself with your full name and declare you are there for an interview at whatever time you're to be there. Don't walk up to someone and say monotonely, "Yeah, I'm here for an interview". Not a good start.

9. Be yourself.
Now, after all of this, you're thinking, "She's making me become someone I'm not!". No, I'm not. I'm just pointing out common errors made during the job hunt process. Still allow yourself to shine through. Employers look for someone qualified and with a personality that fits into their office. I find dressing "safe" helps your resume and yourself shine. It is better to be "that girl who has great experience" than "that girl who had her tatas hanging out and a butterfly on her chest".

Lastly, these tips on how to present yourself are for a typical office environment. I have experience in watching hopefuls come in for interviews and know right from their entrance or resume that they will not be considered for the position based on how they've presented themselves. Make sure your resume is up to date and clean of unnecessary information.
 If you're ever unsure on what to wear, research! Scope out the place before your interview and see what type of clothing is worn by the staff. I'd say its always a safe bet to show up fancier than what is expected. Just leave the ballgown at home.

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