Is your teen prepping up for a job interview? Here are the dos and don’ts

Teenagers often look for part-time jobs for pocket money, to fund certain personal expenses or to save up for buying something. Some of them also choose to join a job for first-hand experience which will add value to their resume when they actually step into the professional world. While domain expertise, academics and knowledge are crucial for cracking a job interview, factors like overall conduct, dress code, and behaviour also play an important role while it comes to success in career. Guide your youngster to follow these tips and come out with flying colours from the interview room.  

Make sure your teenager wears the right clothes  
An interview is a process where the employer makes decisions not only on the basis of a candidate’s knowledge in the required field, but also on his ability to carry himself with confidence. Much of that confidence will reflects through the attire. A clean, put-together look is the key to a successful interview. Your teenager should avoid wearing casual wear while going for a job meeting. While girls should avoid wearing strappy tops, boys should not wear T-shirts. Formal pants instead of jeans are recommended. While it comes to footwear, a girl can go for sandals and flats instead of chunky sneakers and boy can opt for polished shoes. Hoodies, loose or body-hugging clothes, joggers and other sporty outfit are a no-no. A proper business-casual attire is the best fit for an interview.  

Phone should be faced down or switched off  
Using phone in an interview is a sign of distraction and conveys the message that the candidate is uninterested in the role. Before your teenager sets off for the meeting, remind her to put the phone in vibrator mode as the sound might distract the interviewer. In fact, she should keep her phone away while walking in the interview room.  

Make-up shouldn’t be loud  
Girls should avoid wearing bright coloured lip shades and eye shadows. Little make-up and light base will work just fine under the lights. A natural look will lend a professional look. It’s best to keep the hair out of the way, pulled back in a slick bun or ponytail. Make sure your teen avoids wearing any loud hair accessory too. The jewellery should be simple and sophisticated. 

Strong colognes should be avoided  
Too much of fragrance can not only distract the interviewee but also create a negative vibe. Just make sure your youngster looks clean and comfortable.