The totally understandable natural reaction to the 11 little words ‘We would be delighted to invite you in for a meeting’ is SHOPPING TRIP! Because, of course, these things don’t come along that often, you will need to be incredibly impressive... and, well, any excuse, right?
But just wait a minute and let’s get this thing in perspective. These ‘meetings’ and ‘chats’ which are always interviews by another name are all about your prospective new employers getting to know you in person. And really, apart from your actual personality - which let’s face it can go a bit crazy under pressure - what better way to show them who you are than by carefully picking out an outfit from stuff you already own and feel amazing in?
With that in mind - and also because you shouldn't really be spending cash before you've got the job now, should you? - here’s how to navigate putting together a great look without buying a thing. Feel free to spend what you saved commiserating/celebrating later.
Opt For An Ice Breaker Accessory
Y’know the moment when you walk in and have to have a little informal chat before the interviewers get down to the big questions? Well give them something fun to ask you by wearing a conversation starting pair of shoes/piece of jewellery. I should just point out that I’m not talking about a massive gold chain which says Dope or anything because that would be bad and you might sue us for career limiting bad advice. It’s something more along the lines of these Nicholas Kirkwood loaferswhich are shimmering and silver but still appropriately pulled together. The potential new boss is likely to be drawn to them like magpies. One of those big jewelled necklaces from Anthropologie or J Crewwould do very nicely too.
A Crisp Mannish Shirt
No matter what else you wear, layer it over a city-boy kinda shirt for shortcut pulled together vibes. Even if you don’t have something like this Zara one, one of your mates/boyfriend is bound to. Just an icky but necessary word of caution, always wear with a tee, jacket or jumper because if you start getting clammy under questioning these shirts are buggers for showing, erm, disco rings.
Put On Something Which You Already Love
God knows the interview room is possibly one of the most anxiety inducing locations you’re going to find yourself. Therefore it is essential to have an item which takes you to your ‘happy place’ the moment you remember you’re wearing it. For me, this is a beautiful grey and orange cashmere jumper which reminds me of a brilliant holiday in New York. But it could even be that bra which makes you feel mega confident or a ring which reminds you of all the sage advice your Granny has given you over the years. Pretty sure you already know exactly what your thing is.
Find An ‘I Mean Business Bag’
‘Dress for the job you want, not for the job you have,’ is a cheesy, excellent and true line which an unidentified wise person once uttered. Channel this thought with a neat but roomy leather bag which will send a subliminal message that you are organised and have the all the necessary storage tools for any important pieces of paper and gadgets which you will be required to carry around as part of your very responsible new role. See And Other Stories’ leather shopperfor the right vibes but you might have received something suitable from Mulberry for your 21st.
**Look For A Professional Meets Fashion Piece **
We’re talking a pinstripe pinafore dress, a brightly coloured blazer or a sublime navy midi skirt here. Basically something which combines fashion fun times with an element of credible professionalism. It says that you’re creative but respectful, stylish but presentable and experimental whilst always knowing where to draw the line. All that from one skirt you picked up on a quick after work Zara dash is impressive no?
For more straight talking career advice head over to Go Think Big
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This article originally appeared on The Debrief.