Employment and Career Week: Job Interview Preparation for Aestheticians and Other Spa/Beauty Industry Professionals

Preparing for a job interview is a daunting task for anyone, but as an aesthetician in the spa industry it is vitally important. You are in a people business, dealing with clients directly, one on one, every day. The interview is a direct, face to face “people” oriented procedure, and you will be judged by the hiring manager according to how you deal with him or her. The way you conduct yourself during an interview is a direct reflection on how you will represent the spa when dealing with clients.

The first thing to do in preparing for the interview is to make sure that you appear professional in every way. Of course you have a professionally prepared resume, which makes you look as good as possible on paper. Most of the time it was the resume which led to the interview.

Next comes your personal appearance. When you go in for the interview you want to be well dressed , neat and clean. No need to wear a business suit usually. Comfortable business casual attire as you will probably wear when working at the spa is perfectly suitable. Make sure that you don’t wear flashy colors, have only a small amount of jewelry, and go easy on the makeup. A spa is selling health and wellness, and the great way it makes a client feel. With that in mind you need to use your next most important asset, your smile.

Remember to smile and make eye contact with the hiring manager. Make sure that the manager understands from your actions that you are a people personal and that you will present a positive organizational image to the public when working for the spa.

A word about cologne and perfume. Don’t wear any and if you must, keep it to a very bare minimum. Many people are allergic to colognes and perfumes. Many people have very sensitive noses and a small amount can seem like a lot, so either don’t wear any to the interview or make it a tiny amount.

Also these days many people have tattoos and body piercing. Having them is a personal decisions, but most spa owners and managers do not want someone representing them who has noticeable, visible tattoos. If you have tats, make sure that they are covered. If you have body piercings, make sure that they are not noticeable at all possible. Many people in the 20 something generation think a nose ring for instance looks cool, while the average 40 something thinks a nose ring is disgusting and to be avoided at all costs. It may be a generational thing, but the older generation often is in charge and determines whether or not you get a job. Also many clients will feel the same way so make sure the body jewelry isn’t worn during the interview, or later at work.

Above all else, be friendly, and be yourself. People hire those that they like. Let your personality shine through, and good luck on the job interview.