Interviewing for your first job after graduating from beauty school can be a nerve-racking experience. Confidence is the key to success in this area, however. Remember that if you’ve made it to the interview, you’ve already been identified as one of the top candidates for the position!

Dressing for a Job Interview

Traditionally, applicants are advised to dress conservatively for a job interview. If you are a cosmetologist, however, this rule can be interpreted a bit more broadly. Dress as though you already worked at the salon. If the salon specializes in cutting edge looks, you have a license to be creative with your hair, makeup, and outfit. If the salon caters to business professionals, you should look polished yet somewhat subdued. The goal is to have your appearance suggest that you would be a good fit at the company.

Many people buy new clothes in preparation for a job interview. If you have nothing suitable to wear, this strategy may be appropriate. Unfortunately, new clothes are often rather uncomfortable. If you must buy a new outfit, make sure everything fits correctly. If you purchased shoes with heels, make sure you can walk in them without tripping.

Answering Interview Questions

Practicing answers to some of the most common interview questions is an excellent way to prepare for your job interview. Having a friend help you is best, but you can also practice in front of a mirror if no one is available.

Some of the questions you may be asked at a job interview include:

• What initially attracted you to the cosmetology profession?
• How would you describe your beauty school education?
• What are some of your favorite looks in regards to current trends in the industry?
• Why are you interested in working at our salon?
• Why do you think you would be a good fit for this particular job opening?
• What is your biggest strength as a cosmetologist? What do you see as your biggest weakness?
• Describe a time you disagreed with a colleague or classmate. How did you resolve the dispute?
• In your opinion, what characterizes good customer service?
• What are your future career goals?
• Do you have any questions for me?

Even if you are not told to bring your portfolio to the interview, it is still a good idea to have a few samples of your work available. Being able to provide concrete proof of your cosmetology skills will help you stand out from other job applicants.

After the Interview

After a job interview, you should send the interviewer a note to thank him or her for speaking to you and to reaffirm your interest in the position. A handwritten thank-you note is ideal, but you may also send an email if you are concerned a handwritten note would not arrive before the final hiring decision is made.