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Millennials: Secrets to Getting Hired
Perhaps the toughest part about graduation is landing a job that allows one to execute one's field of study. According to studies perfomed by Forbes Magazine, 75% of hiring managers surveyed believe millennials show up to an interview under dressed.
C'mon millennials, I think it's time to step it up.
I recently had the opportunity to attend a meeting hosted by the LACONI Circulation Services Section. As stated in the LACONI website, "Since 1954, LACONI (Library Administrators Conference of Northern Illinois) has been introducing library staff to new technologies and ideas, best practices, and popular programs for children and adults. LACONI is comprised of eight different sections which offer programs designed to enhance skills and knowledge of library staff in their area of expertise".
This program had many human resources managers there that seem to agree with Forbes. Some even said that they knew right from the entrance if they would hire them or not. Seems like books are really judged by their cover, huh?
Working at a library, I am expected to have answers to people's questions, and this case is no exception.
While doing my homework and writing this post, I came up with many guides, inspirational blogs, and a list of books from our catalog to help you nail the next interview you have coming up.
One important step is dressing appropriately and looking the part.
The first thing you need to do to become a fashionista - or at least be appropriately dressed for a job interview - is become familiar with each designer.
Just as authors have their own taste in writing, designers have their own tastes in their products. For example, Chanel is known for her classic black and white style, while Burberry is known for its great coats. Each fashion house makes either more street prêt à porter wear, while others are more formal and business appropriate.
Once you know this, you can decide which ones to wear to work and which one to wear to pick up a gallon of milk.
Once you have done this, you have now moved up to level two. At this level you need to understand that you need to stay updated every March and September with what is happening in the European runways. The reason why this is so imperative is because the European fashion market is about three years ahead of the American market.
This means that if something is becoming en vogue in Europe right now in 2017, most likely it will be mainstream within the American common masses around 2020.
One of the most relatable examples of this is back in 2011, before almost every man in America wanted a beard. Joe Jonas appeared in the cover of Details Magazine in April of 2011 to promote his solo album. The cover featured him showing a well trimmed 5 o'clock shadow. Around 2014 or so, if you can remember, many young men in the States wanted to also rock this image. Today, it is one of the most common looks within college young men.
So all this leads to one question, where do I buy my clothes?
It all depends of the look you want. I will leave that for you to decide, but always ask the employee at the store for their honest opinion. Ask which cut and color goes best with both your body frame and skin complexion.
I must say that it is a very smart idea for a man to wear a suit to an interview since it will increase your chances of getting hired.
For interviews, stay away from black suits since they are used for formal dinners. Instead, wear either a navy or grey suit along with brown shoes. Also, it is important to look well-groomed, so a fresh haircut would add points. Lastly, either have a clean shaved look or make sure to trim your beard if you have one.
Ladies, make sure to wear a nice fitted dress, no shorter than about knee length. It is nice to add some accessories but don't wear something too loud. You also want to go easy on the make up since it is best to go for a look au naturel.
Now for everyone, it is also a very good idea to come extra prepared to the interview.
By this, I mean to bring an extra copy of your resumé since you do not know how many people will be there to interview you. You want to make sure you let them know you are always prepared. Also, research the company you are interviewing for. There is nothing more embarrassing than not being able to answer the question, "Why do you want to work for us"?
Lastly, make sure you give yourself enough time arrive a few minutes before the scheduled time as it is of poor taste to arrive late to an interview.
I hope this post makes you feel a little more confident about your next interview.
Below I have a few options to help you along your quest, but we have a lot more than that so don't think that's all we have. The image about is from the Dolce and Gabbana Fall/Winter 2017 Collection that was targeted to Millennials. Some designers know that not only are Millennials conquering the runway, but will soon also conquer the workplace.
Details Men's Style Manual by Daniel Peres
At last'a sophisticated wardrobe guide for men from a respected authority, Details magazine, offering head-to-toe advice for choosing the right look, the right fit, and the right style for every situation, from boardroom pitches to casual Saturday nights.
The Style Bible by James Bassil
The Style Bible is an indispensable handbook filled with fundamentals that every man can use to improve his dress sense and lifestyle. Divided into 11 rules, The Style Bible helps you build a versatile wardrobe; coordinate different colors, patterns, and accessories; learn which clothes flatter your body type; and navigate the worlds of shoes, jeans, and watches. You'll also learn how to dress appropriately for any occasion or environment, from meetings at the office to first dates and nights on the town. With instructive illustrations and loads of tips, The Style Bible is essential reading for every man who wants to dress to impress.
How to Tie a Tie by Ryan Tristan Jin
Inside you'll find:
* Step-by-step instructions to knot neckties for casual, office, and evening wear
* Tailoring basics for sartorial excellence
* Guidlines for matching cufflinks to shirts, foldng pocket squares, and other essential finishing touches
Beauty by Lauren Conrad
Filled with everything from tips on finding the right skin care regime to how to perfect Lauren's signature winged liner, Lauren Conrad Beauty is the book for all of Lauren's many fans and for any girl or woman looking for pointers from one of Hollywood's most relatable yet glamorous stars. And with dozens of photographs of Lauren and other models, it has never been easier to re-create her look at home.