Top Interview Hairstyles: 6 Ideas to Look the Part

When preparing for your next job interview, pick your hairstyle just as carefully as you select the outfit. The hiring manager will notice every detail of your appearance, so it is important to keep your clothes, hair, and makeup professional.

Today, our experts will suggest great hairstyles that will give you a professional appearance and help make an irresistible first impression. Keep reading to find the best job interview hairstyles for curly or straight hair and learn how to style long hair.

Why does your interview hairstyle matter?

55% of our first impressions are created by how the person looks. If you are ideally qualified for the position but don't look the part, you risk losing the job to someone who has a polished professional appearance. Here are some more reasons why you should consider the hairstyle:

• Show your attention to detail. If you show up for an in-person or video interview professionally dressed, with minimalist accessories and well-groomed wavy hair, the recruiter will see that you care about your appearance. For them, it means your interest in the job opening and desire to get the job.
• Match the company culture. By adjusting your hairstyle, you can show that you match the company culture. For example, for a company in law, finance, or consulting you'll want to wear a suit to match their formal style and opt for a low bun hairstyle.
• Strengthen the first impression. You only have about seven seconds to make that first impression. If your interview attire, makeup, and hairstyle are perfectly acceptable, you'll have a higher chance of landing the job.

Now, let's explore the best interview hairstyles for different hair types.

6 Best job interview hairstyles

Straight and sleek

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If you have straight long hair, consider styling your hair naturally if you're comfortable with it. Use the flat iron to keep your hair straight and sleek, and keep it behind your shoulders. As long as the long hair isn't distracting you, it looks perfectly acceptable for job interviews.

To make your hair shiny and sleek, consider styling products. For example, a straightening cream can keep it nourished and neat.

Well-groomed curls

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Another great idea for long hair is to get loose waves. If you have wavy or curly hair, you don't need to style it additionally - just make sure that you take proper care of your hair and curls look well-groomed. If you have straight hair, you can quickly make loose curls with a curling iron and enjoy the classy look during your interview. Use coconut oil or curl cream so that your hair looks moisturized and curls form well.

Low ponytail

A low ponytail is a perfect hairstyle for a job interview, especially if the company has a formal dress code. According to experts, low ponytail or French twist is perceived more professional than a high ponytail. It is simple, effective, and timeless, which makes ponytail a perfect option if you don't have much time to style your hair.

Use hair clips that match the color of your hair for a polished look. If you want to elevate your ponytail style, try a French braid. Adding a braid on the side is one of the best hairstyles, and can also help you stand out.

Trendy bun

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Bun comes in many variations, and most of them work great for your dream job interview. You can keep it low for a classy, professional vibe, or opt for a high bun for a more relaxed look acceptable for creative roles. It is also easy to make - all you need is elastic and bobby pins.

Use hairspray or apply gel to reduce frizz when styling your hair for an interview, as it might give an unprofessional look. A messy bun can make the opposite impression during the job interview.

Natural waves

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As a Black woman, you can take advantage of the beauty of your natural hair. Style your natural curls for a powerful first impression. Make sure that your curls are cared for and well-defined, and that your overall look is polished and professional. If your curly hair looks controlled and you don't get distracted, it is the right hairstyle for the interview process.

Want to be 100% prepared for the next job interview? Read our guide to choosing the best interview attire for every profession and career level.

Short and stylish

Image: https://unsplash.com/photos/woman-sitting-on-sofa-holding-eyeglasses-4i7-mcM7xSY

Short hairstyles have many advantages. They are easier to maintain and minimize your morning routine. Plus, short hair conveys a sense of confidence and professionalism, making it a perfect choice for a job interview. As long as it is properly styled and not messy, most short hairstyles are acceptable for job interviews.

If you are considering cutting your hair, opt for a pixie cut, classic bob, or French bob. They will give you a professional and natural look.

We hope that you have found the perfect hair updo for your next interview. Now, a few more tips to help you make a lasting impression.

Tips to style short and long hair for a job interview

Whether you opt for a slight curl or ponytail, follow these tips to ensure a flawless look:

• Keep your hairstyle simple and professional. Avoid anything too bright, distracting, and trendy. Pink or blue hair color, or bright hair accessories are a big no-no unless you apply to a creative industry such as fashion, design, or media.
• Make sure that your hair is clean and well-groomed. If you have visible roots, split ends, or uneven hair texture, take care of these issues in advance.
• Avoid using too many hair products. They can weigh your hair down and make it greasy, which will give you an unprofessional, sloppy look. Use products that suit your hair type and make it look better.
• Get a trim or touch-up before the interview and use a light-hold hairspray to make sure your style looks neat and your hair looks its best.
• Opt for a hairstyle you feel comfortable wearing. The best hairstyle is the one that makes you feel confident and doesn't distract you from the actual conversation with the hiring manager.

More tips to ace your next job interview

Once you are super confident about your interview hairstyle and your look in general, make sure you don't forget the basic tips for a successful interview:

• Rehearse popular interview questions. In job interviews, preparation is half of the success. Look for popular questions that recruiters ask and prepare your answers to them in advance. It is best to respond with specific examples or workplace situations you encountered. Here is our list of common interview questions that hiring managers ask.
• Learn about the company. Candidates who show up for an interview and barely know what the company does won't get the job. Research the company's website, social media, and news about them. Not only will it help you determine if the company, but also you can make a strong impression on a recruiter by starting a small talk about the company news.
• Bring copies of your resume, cover letter, and references. If the recruiter doesn't have one at hand, you can give them a copy. Plus, you will make an impression of a structured and organized person.
• Maintain positive body language. Even if you are super nervous, watch your body language and act confidently. Don't cross your legs or arms and maintain eye contact. Keep your posture straight, smile, and listen actively. These nonverbal cues also contribute to the impression about you!
• Follow up. Send a short follow-up letter 24 hours after the interview. Only 1 in 4 candidates do it, so you have a good chance to stand out. Reiterate your interest in the company, recall a moment or two from the interview, and express gratitude. If you forgot to mention something during the interview, use a follow-up email for that.

So, what interview hairstyle is best?

To top it off, neat, professional, and frizz-free hairstyles are the best options for a job interview. Depending on your hair length and type, you may style your straight hair or loose curls, or opt for a low ponytail or a bun. Choose the style you feel most confident wearing, and get ready to impress the interviewer!

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