Whether in styling, fashion design or journalism – everyone has to get through their first interview. The focus is on preparation, behavior and superficialities, more precisely: no suitable appearance, no job. Here’s what counts when making a first impression…
“Invitation to interview” is the subject line of the new email in your inbox – congratulations! The first step has been taken and is followed by great joy, nothing to wear and a pulse of 180… To make sure it really works on the big day, we have put together some do’s and don’ts to help you prepare, behave and choose the right outfit – let’s go!
Appearance
Do’s | Don’ts |
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- Feel comfortable in your outfit and plan it in advance so you avoid nasty surprises and can concentrate on the essentials
| - Appearing in obvious branded clothing from top to bottom distracts from you as a person: it’s better not to combine a Rolex, Hermès belt and Gucci tracksuit… and: As a job newcomer, you don’t look very authentic.
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- Ironed clothes and a well-groomed appearance!
| - Ultimate no-go: wearing fakes! If you want to work in the fashion industry, you don’t have to spend a fortune on designer clothes. Cheating is also not an alternative here, as your counterpart works with these stamps and will recognize forgeries immediately.
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- Show your personality: Do you like to wear color? Go for it! Do you prefer dark colors or monochrome looks? Rock it!
| - No loud cufflinks, jingling jewelry, overpowering perfume or skin-tight outfits – these are distracting.
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- Be yourself: Don’t normally wear make-up? Then don’t try eyeliner or too dark a foundation today. Do you like piercings and full glam and are you practiced with an eyeshadow brush? Show it off!
| - Self-tanning spots, make-up on your white blouse or smudged nail polish – make sure your appearance is flawless.
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- If you’re still standing in front of your closet and don’t know what to do, mix chic and casual! Here are some examples of no-go’s and go’s:
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Behavior
| Do’s | Don’ts |
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| - The pen moves between your fingers and your leg bounces constantly – sure, you’re nervous, but fidgeting doesn’t help! Stay calm and relaxed.
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- “Would you like a drink?” Say yes! It’s best to choose a glass of water instead of coffee or tea – that way you won’t break a sweat.
| - Cell phone on the table? No Go! Turn it off as soon as you’re at the door and leave it in your bag for the entire stay.
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- Punctuality to the second! It’s best to allow plenty of time for the outward journey and factor in possible obstacles/train delays etc.
| - A bored, arrogant or even superior impression won’t get you far.
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- Stay relaxed and cheerful, show that you are fun to work with.
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Contents
| Do’s | Don’ts |
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- For example, if you are applying as a graphic designer, fashion designer or similar, you can take your portfolio or a portfolio of your work with you. That shows preparation and willpower!
| - “Why are you applying for a job with us?” – “I am interested in interested in Fashion…” So do other applicants besides you. Stand out from the crowd and show what really interests you about the industry and the company in question! Any favorite designers, stories, styles or effects that interest and inspire you?
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- Be yourself and show your personality…
| - Do not use the first name unless it is offered to you!
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- …but still remain confident: Know your weaknesses and strengths, and stand by what you have already presented in your written application.
| - A few questions are good – but the first one has to be right! Do’s and don’ts for the first question:
| Do’s | Don’ts |
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| How is the company structured? | How many weeks of vacation do I have again? | | How many issues are published per year? | How long is the notice period? | | How does the team work? | And they earn how much? | | What does everyday life look like in your company? |
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