When it comes to job interviews, you absolutely have to be at your best to secure your desired job or university place. This means:

• knowing you’ve researched as much as you can about the organisation you are trying to join;

• being confident in yourself, which will include being sure about your knowledge, experience and ability;

• being clear about why you want the job or course and where you want it to take you;

• AND looking your absolute visual best. This will help you present the best possible version of you and ensure you feel worthy of the opportunity.

Normally an interviewer is not trying to catch you out, they are trying to fairly assess how you will perform if you are given the opportunity. They will be assessing everything about you, from how you speak, what you say and do, and how you appear visually. You’ve been invited to the interview because you’ve got the knowledge, aptitude and/or skills they are looking for, based on your application or CV. Now is your time to shine above any competition, in visually presenting YOU.

How you appear is something else you can prepare in advance, so you’re not worried about that on the day. There are some negatives that will detract from all your preparation so do pay attention to these tips.

1. Unkempt, greasy hair. Wash your hair the night before your interview or, if necessary, go to your hairdresser a few days before the day.

2. Dandruff – this can increase because of stress. Of course, you can do some research to see how to alleviate this, but if it is a problem you can’t sort in time, you can disguise it by what you wear. For example, lighter coloured tops and with a pattern, even in the weave. Pop to the bathroom before your interview and shake out your jacket or brush yourself off.

3. You may feel under-confident if you have breakouts on your face – is there anything you can do to reduce or disguise these, maybe with make-up? There are skin specialists who can advise, but it may take a few days or weeks to sort, so you should start thinking about this in advance if you can.

4. When it comes to make-up, I advise a light amount. If you aren’t used to wearing any, you should practise a few days before to ensure you apply it well. I usually ask what someone is going to wear to apply complementary colours, so you will need to think about your outfit and try it on to make sure it fits, is comfortable and all works together a few days before too. Visit a department store make-up counter if you can, or look up YouTube videos, to get advice and some hints.

5. Lipstick needs to be a flattering shade. Some lipsticks will make you look drawn or fierce, so you need to get this right.

6. Knowing what you will wear and that you look your best will give you confidence. This should be part of your preparation. You probably don’t need to buy something new, and in fact wearing something you know suits and fits you is comforting. Your clothes need to be appropriate for the interview/ organisation, and you can find out if there is a dress code before you attend. I would advise a skirt or dress not to be too short or tight. It’s better to dress smarter than not, even if the dress code is “smart/casual” or “business casual”.

If your first interview is online, which is becoming more common nowadays, you may give thought to how you appear on screen, what your background and lighting is like, and how to operate the software. I would advise that you practise in advance to check all sorts of things like sound, ensuring there aren’t noisy distractions and pets or children demanding attention. Remember to switch your mobile phone off if you aren’t using it for the interview. Your clothing colour choices will be important too. Your clothes do say a lot about you, including whether you are confident or hiding behind them. Colours which flatter your skin tone and body shape will bring out your best side and won’t make you look old or ill; this was something I did before I knew which colours suited me best. A colour assessment will help you work this out.

And remember:

7. Jewellery needs to be discrete and appearance enhancing, not a distraction from you and your words.

8. Nails need to be neat and clean. Be aware that they can be a distraction too, if they are brightly coloured. Some organisations or industries do not allow nail polish so check this out before your interview. It might be better to play safe and just use a clear polish if you choose to wear any.

9. Hosiery - you absolutely must wear socks or tights to a face-to-face interview, no matter how hot it is! If you’re wearing tights or stockings which may snag or ladder, I recommend you take a spare pair, just in case!

10. Shoes need to be comfortable and clean. Shoes say a lot about you and in a face-to-face situation can be the difference between you and the next candidate. Show you care by turning up with very clean and polished shoes.

With these tips, you can give yourself the style and confidence to be unstoppable. Good luck!

About Fiona Mobbs

Fiona Mobbs is a highly trained independent personal stylist and belongs to the Federation of Image Professionals International (FIPI). For over ten years, Fiona has been helping people understand what colours and clothing styles work best for them so that they can develop their unique style. She believes that confidence comes from wearing clothes that suit you and that are appropriate for the situation. Everyone deserves to look and feel their best - personal styling is not just for the rich or famous! yourcolourandstyle.com