How to Prepare for Interviews on a Budget

So you’ve updated your resume, applied for jobs, and now you’ve received a call to interview for your dream job—how exciting! There’s only one thing left to do now: get ready! It is critical to prepare for the job you want; it not only boosts your professionalism, but it also gives employers a positive impression of you. The following is a comprehensive list of how to dress and prepare for interviews on a budget:

1. Get a good night’s sleep.

I know what you’re thinking: how does this have anything to do with interview attire? Actually, there are a number of reasons for this. Getting the recommended 7-8 hours of sleep improves your sharpness as well as your appearance and sound. There will be fewer bags under your eyes, and your eyes will appear brighter and more inviting. Not to mention that sleep is completely free!

2. Have a readily available accessory.

The best thing you can have by your side during that interview is a large tote bag. They’re not only fashionable, but they’re also very affordable. I got mine for $7.00 at Rue 21, and similar tote bags can be found at Walmart, Target, and other stores. I mean “use that thing” when I say “accessible accessory.” Fill it with resume folders, water bottles, business cards, and other items. You will also appear more prepared and ready for the interview, which will impress employers.

3. Bring a lint roller with you.

For only $1.00, pick up a lint roller from Dollar Tree; it could be a lifesaver! At home, I have a Labrador retriever who enjoys sitting on me, giving me hugs, and laying on me. When I say goodbye to my dog, I might end up with a lot of fur all over me, which I obviously don’t want. You might, on the other hand, have just washed your clothes and your suit is covered in lint. Both situations are undesirable, but there are cost-effective options available to you. Lint rollers will get rid of everything; they’re like magic! At Dollar Tree, it’s only $1.00. Just in case, I’d throw this in your tote bag!

4. Don’t forget to bring a hair tie.

I promise this is the last thing I’ll remember to get at Dollar Tree. Sometimes your hair doesn’t turn out the way you want it to, the weather is bad and your hair becomes frizzy, or it’s sweltering outside and you need to stay cool. I swear I could have a thousand hair ties and still forget to bring one when I’m in desperate need of one. Dollar Tree, thankfully, always has an unlimited supply of hair ties for only $1.00. In addition, each package contains an average of 30 hair ties, which can be useful for future interviews. This is a useful item to have on your wrist or in your tote bag.