Hope everyone got some wonderful downtime and quality time with the family recently. Wait, who am I kidding? If you're a mom there is no downtime. EVER!
But I digress, because this column isn't about how frantic our lives are. It's about the Working Mom. If you read my inaugural post (if you haven't, do so now....I will wait) you know that I was lucky enough to start a new job in September and I'm sure there are many mommas out there who have resolved to find a new job in the new year. I also know the biggest question on everyone's mind is "what to wear to that dreaded job interview?"
Well ladies all you need to do is remember the three Cs:
Clean
- Your outfit must be wrinkle-free, stain-free, dirt-free.
- If this means wrapping your kids hands in disinfecting wipes so they don't make you dirty, then so be it.
Nails should not have chipped polish, or haldi stains, and shoes shouldn't have salt or mud.
Classic
- My personal philosophy is that your outfit shouldn't detract from your message; your message being how
you can add value to the organization.
- Classic dress pants or skirt with a blazer or sweater will do the trick. If you wanna show a little style, do so
with your blouse or cool accessories like bangles.
Comfortable
- This might seem counter-intuitive, but I don't want you to feel itchy, restricted or wobbly in your outfit. I want
you to feel like a confident, competent woman! Because what company doesn't want to hire a confident,
competent woman?
A few extra tips to commonly asked questions:
- Open-toed shoes are generally OK as long as you aren't interviewing somewhere über-conservative like a
bank or law-firm. Piercings are fine in ears and nose so long as they are tasteful. Tattoos should be covered
up if at all possible.
- Some of you might feel that this focus on appearance is superficial, vain and has nothing to do with your
qualifications. Well, I'm here to tell you that by showing you made an effort for your interview you are
demonstrating that you will make an effort on the job.
By Shweta Jacob
Follow Shweta on Twitter @shwetajacob
Read more stories about work and family by Shweta Jacob:
Job-Hunting 101, Mat-Leave Over? Back to Work Tips, Dos and Don'ts of Working From Home