As the temperatures climb here in the Valley, it’s a good idea to plan a little extra for those summertime job interviews. Everything from keeping water close at hand to watching out for scalding seat belt buckles;the desert has its own rules to live by in the summer months.
Here are a few things to keep in mind when preparing to meet with a potential employer.
- Even with air conditioning in your car or on the bus, even a short trip can make you wilt a little. Plan for a little bit of extra time to wipe the sweat from your brow, touch up make up, or to splash a little cold water on your face before going into your interview.
- Drink plenty of water. Between nerves and heat, your body needs the extra help to stay cool. With the extra hydration, keep in mind you might need to make a final pit stop before the interview.
- Sandals are common footwear in the summer in Phoenix, but aren’t always an appropriate for an interview. Go with a pair of close-toed shoes for a more professional look.
- Leave things you don’t need during the interview at home. It can get extremely hot in parked cars in the summer and things you don’t think of can become severely damaged. You might bring some extra chapstick or makeup for touchups, but these items melt easily in the desert heat and can cause a mess. If you can’t keep it on you, consider leaving it at home.
- Choose lightweight versions of jackets, slacks, and skirts to stay comfortable while still looking professional. Make sure whatever you choose is still interview appropriate; it’s always a good idea to err on the side of modesty – even in the Phoenix heat.
- Professional dress often includes wearing a third piece of clothing (like a jacket or cardigan). During the summer, keep this third piece on a hanger in your car and put it on at the last minute when you arrive. If you need to take your jacket or sweater off during the interview, ask politely if they mind if you remove your jacket.
- Keep an eye on the weather the day of your interview. Phoenix summers are known for dust storms, or haboobs. These events can unleash a large amount of rain in a short amount of time causing flooding and dangerous road conditions. Make sure to check the weather the morning of your interview and plan accordingly.
- Mind your small talk. Even though talking about the weather is common for small talk, try not to complain too much about the heat (or anything else). Make a good impression by staying positive, after all – it’s a dry heat!
- Plan ahead for childcare or help taking care of pets the day of your interview. Provide yourself with enough buffer time to accommodate for the high temperatures. Remember, it is never okay to leave pets or children unattended in a car, but in the summer it can be deadly.
- Pre-drive your interview route or map it using a service that provides current road closures and traffic conditions. Traffic is usually lighter in the summer months around Phoenix, but it’s always a good idea to know where you are headed and exactly how long it will take you to arrive.
- Good hygiene and deodorant are always important, but in the summer they are even more so. Take extra care to show up clean and refreshed looking. You can always pop into the lobby restroom or a nearby coffeeshop to freshen up before you meet for your interview.
For more advice on what to wear to interviews, check out our 20 dressing tips!