top 5 interview tips.

As you may already know, Lauren and I both have recently gotten new jobs & there is nothing more stressful than applying, interviewing and securing a new position that you love. I've curated a list of my five top tips for rocking the interview process.

1. Dress for success.

In my opinion, you can never be overdressed for an interview. I'm a huge fan of some pixie pants and a NICELY TAILORED blazer for the occasion. I know Lauren prefers a power dress and sweater combo. I think the biggest key here is to make sure that your clothes are properly tailored/ fit you well and that you steam/ iron/ dry clean your outfit. You want to look your best, and the little details matter. The employer's first impression of you is your appearance, so make it count.

2. Research the company.

Come with a basic knowledge of your position and what it would entail. Know what the company does, and be familiar enough to have a conversation with them about their business.

3. Have in-depth questions ready.

Set yourself apart by having questions that are more than just "Do you offer a 401k?". You want to have questions that are thoughtful and show that you've researched their department and position.

4. Don't use your phone. At all.

I am notorious for showing up to an interview 10 minutes early. It shows you're prompt, but that you don't waste time by being there for a half hour before your scheduled time. When I'm sitting waiting for the appointment to start, you can see me looking around observing what is going on, reading magazines (if they have them available), or chatting with the receptionist or other people in the waiting area. I will never pull out my phone. You never know if they're watching you to see how you interact with others, or to see how you wait. I think it's unprofessional to sit there and scroll Facebook while you wait.

5. Send a handwritten thank you note.

There's nothing more personal or memorable than sending a handwritten note. Yes, it's important to follow up with a thank you email, but writing a handwritten note really makes a difference and when they get it a few days after your interview, it reminds them how you're a classy, professional, qualified candidate. I got some personalized thank you cards that I use for situations like this, but you can also get some adorable, affordable ones from Target.

Hopefully with these tips, you'll rock that interview and secure your dream position. Don't be afraid to interview for the practice of interviewing.

xoxo Gabrielle