Job Interview Tips
Potential employers use the interview process to assess your skill level, confidence, and knowledge. They also try to determine whether your personality and talents will fit into their existing team. Most important, they evaluate how you will service and support their clients.
One successful salon owner, after interviewing a Paul Mitchell graduate who showed up in blue jeans and tennis shoes, sent Paul Mitchell School Dean Winn Claybaugh the following e-mail: “It did not matter how brilliant she was technically or how wonderful her attitude was because we have a saying: At a job interview, how they show up is as good as it gets!”
Follow these eight great tips to show up like a superstar for your next interview!
1. Be prepared, focused, confident, and relaxed. Employers know that this process can be nerve-racking and will expect you to be a little nervous. The best way to combat nervousness is to be overly prepared.
2. Have your questions ready. The interview is your opportunity to determine if the school or team is right for you, so be prepared with several questions about the position for which you’re applying. Ask about the company’s training program, types of education and training available outside of the company, compensation, career opportunities, job description, and clientele or service procedures.
3. Appearance counts. Purchase two complete outfits that reflect your personal style. Make sure your hair is cut and colored to reflect the most up-to-date trends. On the day of your interview, style your hair and do your makeup and nails.
4. Bring an extra copy of your résumé. You may also want to bring a list of your references and accomplishments, a list of seminars you’ve attended, and photos of your work.
5. Find two or three models for your technical interview. Choose models with beautiful, easy-to-work-with hair. This is not a time to tackle a challenging head of hair. Prior to the technical interview, make sure your model’s hair is colored and makeup is done. Have your model wear something simple, like a black dress or outfit. Always have a backup model in case of emergencies.
6. Be confident. Show that you have the ability to communicate and work well under pressure.
7. Attitude is everything. If you ask any salon or spa owner, “What’s more important—hiring someone with brilliant skill and talent or hiring somebody with an amazing attitude?” hands down they’ll tell you it’s attitude. During your interview, be lively and energetic, ask questions, stay involved, and look interested.
8. Mind your manners! Take time to thank your interviewer. End the meeting with a handshake and arrange a time or date for a follow-up call.