Its time for some common ‘scents’…

Your interviewer should remember your experience, not the cloud of cigarette smoke or waft of bodily odour that entered the room before you did.

The reality is, first impressions matter and people judge within the first few seconds. Before you’ve even spoken about your projects, portfolio or experience, they’ve already noticed:

– Your outfit
– Your hair
– Your hygiene
– Your scent (or lack of scent… or too much scent)

So please, for the love of all things professional:

– Have a shower
– Brush your teeth
– Wear deodorant
– Don’t rock up smelling like an ashtray
– Maybe book that haircut

– Wear professional, appropriate attire

You wouldn’t turn up to a first date not looking your best, an interview shouldn’t be any different.

And before anyone says “this shouldn’t matter”, you’re right. In a perfect world, it wouldn’t. But unfortunately, it’s something we see often. And if your hygiene is poor, a company will think about how that affects the office staff, clients and who would withstand sitting next to you.

Remember presentation is everything, just as much as its in your resume, portfolio and even your mannerisms, its equally recognised in your appearance.