Summer Interviews - 5 Tips to Help Keep Your Cool

Interviews are stressful no matter what time of year it is, but in the dog days of summer, they can present an even bigger challenge. Just last week, I was in a hurry to get to a job interview and between the heat, the terrible humidity and my nerves, when I finally got there, I could feel the heat radiating off of my body. I was rumpled, tired and the sweat running down my face didn't give me the polished, professional look I was going for.



It seems to be a common problem this time of year, but there are some things you can do to keep your cool during summer interviews. Here are some tips:



Wear one less item in transit - On the way to the interview, wear one less item than you plan to wear at the actual interview. For example, carry your jacket or blazer. This way, you'll be cooler in transit and your jacket will be crisp. Once you put it one, you don't have to worry as much about the dampness of your shirt becoming too visible.



Wear comfortable shoes - It's tempting to wear a pair of heels, but during the summer, it's better to opt for comfortable flats or dress shoes. Dressy sandals can also work well, depending on the dress code of the business. Whatever you do, don't show up wearing flip-flops.



Give yourself 15 minutes to cool down - Allow yourself extra time to cool off before your interview time. Depending on where you are going, spend a few minutes in the bathroom or at a nearby business to get refreshed and gather your thoughts. This is the perfect time to put some cold water on your face or neck. It's also a good idea to always carry a nice handkerchief for just this situation. Once you're cooled off, you'll feel more confident about the interview.



Select garments that don't show sweat - It's best to wear fabrics that have a little bit of Lycra, to prevent wrinkles and stay away from linens and other fabrics that tend to show sweat or that look rumpled easily. Plan for the hottest day, and anything less will be a pleasant surprise.



Bring along some breath strips - To feel fresh, it's a bad idea to put on more cologne or perfume. On hot days, the overwhelming perfume smell can trigger allergies even in those who aren't as sensitive to it. Instead, get a pack of breath strips that dissolve quickly in your mouth. It will give you fresher breath and can even make you smell better overall.



What other things do you think help on hot days? How have you been coping with the heat? Please share your thoughts in the comments.