Last week, I gave my tips and tricks for writing a killer resume. I only thought it was fitting to share my tips on nailing the interview today. You might be thinking, what credibility does she have? Well, in my last role it was my job to prep my employees for interviews and help them land the job. Not only that, every in-person interview I have had, I have received a job offer. This is not to brag - I'm actually horrible at phone interviews (generally the first step to the process) - but I have always been the type of person that knows if I can at least get an in-person interview, that I will get the job.

There are some things that seem like common sense but it's actually surprising how many people forget about them. I wanted to give you all the tips you need so the next interview you have, you can wow the hiring manager, land the job, and start your path in your new career.
Let's first debunk the phone interview. This is 99.9% of the time how the interview process starts - and by far the part I am the worst at. I tend to psych myself out, slur my words and not even form complete sentences. The biggest thing to remember is just to sell yourself. The only reason they are doing phone interviews is to weed out the people that wouldn't be a fit. Talk to your successes and be honest - this should be enough for them to bring you in.

Note: Sometimes you just aren't the right fit for the role. Don't get discouraged! Why would you want a role where people don't think you're a fit anyways?!

On to the in-person interview:

1. You Can NEVER EVER Be Too Prepared. 
If you don't do your research then shame on you! You need to research the company, read current news stories on them, see what the blogs are saying. Always find out who you will be meeting with and research them too. You may reach ultimate stalker status but their LinkedIn page, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram will tell you a lot. Don't think they aren't researching you either! The more you know, the better.

2. Dress To Impress. 
Unless stated otherwise, you should always wear suiting attire. Tailor the type of suiting attire to your personality. I always wear some sort of color, print, and fun jewelry. I am a firm believer that prints, statement jewelry, and a pop of color can be professional. If you are unsure, always get a few opinions! Never the less, always wear a suit. It will leave a lasting impression and show the hiring manager that you actually care.

3. Give A Firm Handshake.
There is nothing more I hate then starting off the interview with a weird handshake. You know those people that act like they don't want to touch you? Don't be that person. Women tend to be the worst, most reach their hand out and barely shake your finger. GROSS! You should be able to look the interviewer in the eye, smile, introduce yourself, and deliver a firm handshake. I have actually practiced this before and had people rate my handshake (i.e., if it was too soft or too firm). Practice and then practice some more!

4. Conversate!
You want the interviewer to remember you - you want to leave a lasting impression. Make conversation! Let them get to know you. You may be surprised you have something in common, you have common friends, or maybe you're from he same place. You won't know unless you ask. I like when people give me the time of day to ask questions about myself, in return, I will do the same. That's what getting to know people means :).

5. Make Sure To Explain What You Can Bring To The Role.
Let's say you aren't 100% qualified for this role - how then, are you going to receive an offer? You need to explain to the interviewer all of your strengths and what you can bring to the table. Reflect on previous work whether that be in previous roles, volunteer work, hobbies, etc. If they are looking for someone who has leadership experience but you don't have any in your work history, talk about what you did in college, maybe groups or projects you lead. Give them reasons not to doubt the lack of experience but instead show them the wide range of experience you have - because you do have it!

6. Ask At Least Three Questions. 
Coming to the interview with questions not only means you are more prepared but the interviewer will respect you for asking them. Sure, they might answer some of your questions but that is why you need to ask non-generic ones!

Rather then asking, "Could you tell me what a day in the life of an event coordinator looks like?" Ask, "What are your current weekly and monthly KPI metrics that all event coordinators must hit - what are some challenges they run into?" I was able to ask that question when I interviewed for my current role because I understood what the job was ahead of time and I could initiate educated questions based on the job description.

Don't think it's not okay to ask the generic questions, because it absolutely is! I just want to challenge you to think outside the box.

7. Ask For The Role.
At the end of every interview (if I know I want the position), I always ask for the role. It's as simple as stating, "I can't thank you enough for taking the time to interview me, I truly think I would be a valuable asset to this company and would bring a great deal to the team, what is the next step for consideration? Is there anything preventing you from making the job offer to me now?"

This is definitely ballsy - but with the unemployment rate extremely low, you have nothing to lose. If they don't make you an offer in the interview then it's all a waiting game, and that's just a waste of time! It's either you or the gal in the waiting room. Who's it going to be?

8. Always Get The Timeline & Next Steps.
This is simply for your own sake - ask what their timeline for closing the role is, what the next steps are, and when they will have a firm decision.

9. Send A Hand Written Thank You.
This is just the cherry on top of the cake. I don't know about you but I love getting mail, sending a hand written note shows you put in effort, are thoughtful, and very interested. This may seal the deal if the interviewer was on the fence.

Let's think about it, what if it's just down to you and one other person. You both have the same credentials and great personalities, but you sent a hand written thank you letter and the other person didn't. You will be the one to get the job!

Make sure to write more then a "thank-you." Reflect back on your conversations, thank them, and tell them once more why you want the position.

10. Know That You Can Land The Role Even If You Aren't Qualified!
My rule of thumb is, if you meet 80% of the job qualifications, then you are qualified for the job. Every position is a learning curve, don't be afraid to challenge yourself. You need to let the interviewer know this too. Make sure to tell them you are motivated, driven, and up for any challenge. Show them the strengths you do have and how those can replace any skills you may be missing.

Other Common Things To Remember:

• Turn your phone completely off or leave it in the car. Interruptions are an interview killer!
• Bring copies of your resume. Chances they will already have one on file are very high but just in case they din't have time to print one off!
• Ask them to give you a tour if they don't. 
• Have your list of weaknesses prepared. Don't forget to share with them how you work on your weakness or what you do to combat them.
• Get the interviewers business card - that way you have all their contact info! Great way to send a follow up card, email, and phone call!

I've been a longtime sufferer of acne. In high school, I had radiant skin. I would get comments all the time about how dewey and glowing it was and what products I used. Although in high school, I still took really good care of my skin - that's one thing my mother had always preached! It wasn't until I graduated from high school that I had a horrific face infection. (You can read more and see photos here!) I was backpacking across Alaska and zits were backpacking all over my face. From large cysts to deep blackheads - it was a nightmare. When I started college I tried every drugstore product there was. I didn't have the money for expensive treatments so I had to figure out ways to heal it on my own. What I have been left with are scars and dark spots and definitely the occasional pimple.
Since then, I have come across brands that I trust and know will help fight adult acne. I still switch products every so often - it's necessary to change products based on the current state of your skin, the season, if you're traveling, hormonal factors, etc.

See other posts and products I have raved about:
1.3 Miracle Products To Help Fight Acne & Scarring
2. My Favorite Products For Treating Breakouts
3. Tried & True Acne Remedies
While this photo may look really good - it's fairly deceiving (all thanks to a good camera lens!). You can still see indents from scars on my cheeks and some small hormonal pimples, but overall my face has significantly improved and it's all because of the products I use.

A few of my favorite brands are Mario Badescu and drugstore brands such as Clean & Clear. All of these products I have used for quite some time or I will rotate them in and out throughout the year. I added moisturizers to the list because these will significantly effect how your face is (i.e., oily, combination, dry, etc.). It's important to do a lot of research and only test products on a small part of your skin. When in doubt - ask your dermatologist!

It's always a good idea to keep your resume updated. These days, resumes are evolving and the way you write them is extremely important. Most companies have an ATS, or, Applicant Tracking System. These systems essentially filter through hundreds resumes and present ones to the HR or Talent Acquisition team that meet the most criteria.

Problem? Definitely! Most people don't have enough keywords, skills, or the right information on the resume so their resumes aren't being looked at. I come from the world of staffing and after thousands of resumes later, I can tell you that most people have been writing their resumes the wrong way! I get it, putting together your resume is absolutely zero fun, but if you always keep one updated, then it's just the initial formatting that gets tricky.

Below, I'm going over must-have's, do-not's, and don't-forgets! All with examples of my resume. I'd like to say I'm an expert (or close to it) - I have formatted and written so many resumes that it just comes naturally now. If you have questions, comment below!

1 // Format first! 
Decide what type of company you are applying for and tailor your resume to the industry. Don't be afraid to think out of the box for formatting. When I was applying for positions, I received a lot of compliments on my resume. Why? Because it was different. You want to stand out - not fit in or get tossed on the bottom. Make a statement, be bold, and boast a little (we will talk about this later). I love Creative Market for resumes, there are thousands of templates to choose from that are much prettier and professional than the Microsoft Word versions.
Not to mention, these resumes are modern and "in-tune" with the evolving social world. BUY ONE! I love this one, this, and this!

• Don't put your photo on your resume. Instead, link to your LinkedIn account - you should have one if you are in a professional industry. Take a look at mine if you want an example! 
• Don't put any personal information. Phone number and address are all you need. I will say however, if you are a person requiring sponsorship - it's good to put what kind of sponsorship you require.
• Don't have poor grammar. Check it twice, then again, then a few more times before you send it on. Also have someone else look over it too.
• Don't lie! Hiring managers will certainly find out if you did lie - whether it be from your references or from asking you questions - it's better to sound knowledgable about what you know than dumb about what you don't. 

Happy Spring! Whether it's nice out or not today, it's the first official day if spring and I am ecstatic! I am so tired of cloudy days, barren trees, and dead grass all over - it's so depressing! While I love the winter (only when there is snow), I am molding into a spring and summer gal quickly. The clothing picks for spring are just too cute, I couldn't resist this pink bow sweater. It's something different and I'm looking forward to pairing it with high-waisted, white skinny jeans or an eyelet skirt (this one is $52!).

I attended a conference last week with Tampax, the largest femcare product in the world. Not only did I (of course) have so much fun but it was truly eye opening. I left feeling inspired to share - not just because I back the Tampax brand but because every other brand doesn't have the science or technology like Tampax does. I wanted to talk about three things. The first, why it's OK to talk about periods and tampons are other taboo items that we are embarrassed to talk about. The second, the science and technology behind tampons. Lastly, the reason Tampax is the only brand you should be using.
1. Stop period shaming and don't listen to tampon taboos!
Here's what: all women experience periods, yet most of us are embarrassed to open up that wrapping the bathroom stall. We hide tampons in pockets, sleeves, or the wire of our bra - all because we don't want the BOYS to see. We have no problem saying "oh, she's crabby because she started her period," UM, EARTH TO EVERYONE - 99% of women who get their period, are crabby when they get it because who wants to have their uterus contract and slough off the inner lining of your endometrium?

I decided I'm not going to be embarrassed anymore and I'm not going to period shame anymore. Why? Because we all go through it. Instead, we should be proud we are women and know that this is a "gift" (let's call it that) - that men don't get. Empowering one other to be confident and not feel embarrassed is so important. What's even more important is using products that make you feel that way, because you don't have to worry!

2. The science behind your lady parts and what type of tampon you need to use. 
Quick science lesson: your lady parts are flat inside. If you put your hands together (like you're clapping), this is a good way to mimic what your lady parts look like inside. It only makes sense that you use a tampon that fits the shape of your lady parts, right? If you were using the right tampon, then when the tampon absorbs fluid, it open up and be flat with your hands. Well, unfortunately, all tampons (except Tampax) open every which way except flat!

If we want to prevent leaks then we need a tampon that fits the inside of our lady parts so no fluid can pass by. If you are using a tampon that is long length wise, round, or cup-like - these tampons are not fitting the shape of your "vagine" and will therefore cause leaks.

Note: I had to add this meme - I didn't watch the Bachelor this season but I did see this clip and thought it was hilarious.

3. Tampax is the best brand of tampon to use!
The picture below explains it all. We compared Tampax next to several other brands - we opened them up, felt the different blends, pipetted liquid into each to see which tampon could absorb more and how well it prevented leaks. I was baffled - Playtex, I couldn't even open. It was solid as a rock, at one point I was hitting it on the table to see if it would open or soften - nope! Tampons are a cotton and rayon blend mixture, these are very soft fibers and you should be able to pull them apart. When we couldn't pull it apart we started pipetting liquid on to both tampons to see which one absorbed more. You can see that the Tampax tampon distributes the liquid throughout the whole tampon - what we want it to do so one place doesn't try to absorb it all and then leak.

Another point to mention is the back-up leak protection in the Tampax braid. The plaited string surely didn't absorb liquid but that Tampax absorbed it all!

If you read yesterday's post, I talked about recreating looks from last year with pieces you already own and adding jewels, a scarf, or new top to give it a refresh. I found it only fitting to talk about some of my favorite jewelry today. Accessories are the simple most way to add some pizazz to your outfit. Any plain jane dress can be taken to a new level with the right jewels. I love collecting pieces that I consider "staples" but also pieces that are ultra unique and vibrant. In my opinion, you should express yourself with the jewelry you wear whether it be watches, necklaces, earrings, or bracelets.

There's no doubt that I love shopping, especially at the start of each new season. However, it really isn't conducive for my closet or bank account. I've said it before, but I really believe that having a closet full of basics that don't go out of style, is key to transitioning your wardrobe year to year. I then like to add trendy pieces each new season to give some character to my look. I pulled some looks from the archives and added new (or the same) pieces to the widget below so you can "recreate" looks from last spring.

Super quick post today as I am traveling (follow me on Insta and Snapchat: taysuehoffman to see what I'm up to!), but I wanted to share this super cute "budget buy" top. Old Navy has been my go-to stop for years for budget-friendly purchases. The new spring collection is amazing (insert high five emoji). This top also comes in a dress and I am thinking the navy will be good for spring, transitioning into summer - and it's only $39.99!

We all know relationships aren't easy - some are nearly impossible - other's seem so simple. I've learned a lot about relationships over the past 10 years. My parents ended their marriage during my first year at college, things sort of pin-balled downwards after that - including my own relationship. I am the type of person to that likes to learn from my mistakes (once I've admitted that I have made them). I always go back and reflect on what did I do wrong, things I did right, what could've changed, what outside factors played a role, etc. If there is one thing that has been difficult about failed relationships it has been recognizing that I played a part in their failure. I have always followed the philosophy that "everything happens for a reason" and most of the time I conclude that the reason was...to teach me something.

There are things that I have learned over the past few years that I believe are worthy enough to share. Most of these may seem simple or common - but, oh, are they true. True and powerful. Once I learn from a mistake or a failed relationship it baffles me how clearly I can see it. Often times, we are so blinded by our own pride, motivations, desires, and needs that we are completely oblivious to what is really going on. So, I'm sharing my tips in hopes that you'll see a little clearer, love a little harder, and have faith that everything happens for a reason.
1. Communication isn't just something you need, it is EVERYTHING you need. No relationship can be successful without good communication. You're probably thinking "duh," but I don't think you quite understand. My engagement that ended over six months ago ended for the prime reason that we didn't communicate and if we did communicate it wasn't effective nor healthy. You can't expect your other half to know what you want/how you feel/what you need unless you tell them, and vice versa. If there is a problem the absolute most catastrophic thing you can do is keep it to yourself. I watched my parents not talk about issues for years. Now, I realize they had serious communication issues - but then, as a child, I thought they just never had any issues. Bickering and pestering one another only leads to pent up anger and significant communication barriers - two things you want to steal clear of. Try talking, or writing things down, or only talking about one "problem" a week and fixing just that one, first.

Talk to one another. If you can't, then find someone who will help you. This is an area where some help may be a good thing.

2. Acknowledge and work on your weaknesses. We all have grey areas and many of us don't really like to admit that we do. I know I certainly do - one of them for example is that I don't pay enough attention or give enough back to the other person. I failed at this during my engagement. I can be a very closed-off and shielded person - thus, not really opening up to those around me. The problem? I never acknowledged that. I didn't want to believe I had something that needed mending nor did I want to admit I was at fault for a relationship that was breaking.

It's empowering to acknowledge your weakness. Once you do, it only makes you stronger and able to see things more clearly.

3. Don't react off of hate - and don't tolerate it either.  Words do plenty of damage. Damage that 90% of the time is not easily mended...if at all. Whether you are on the receiving side or the giving side, hate is not something you can use or have in your battle. A relationship is a very delicate thing, it must be seeded, watered, and given just the right amount of sunlight. If you wanted to, you cold easily stomp on it or pull it out of the grown, hence the word "hate." Your relationship only grows and flourishes from what you put into it. If hate is the only thing that is entering, well you should know what your outcome is.

Find out what is making you or your significant other upset. Communicate. Then communicate some more. Set boundaries that are not allowed to be crossed - and enforce them. For it's your heart on the line as well as someone else's.

4. You must love yourself and be okay with you before you can even think of being okay for someone else. When you think about this last tip - really think about it. If you don't love the person you are, how can you expect someone else to? Not only that, if you don't have love and respect for yourself then you will most likely "settle" with someone who has the same amount of love and respect for you.

It sounds cliche, but, you must accept yourself and love yourself. This has to happen before you can give your heart to someone who is deserving of it.

I'm sure this is an area we all have had issues with so if you have any more tips, please share below!

You all know by now that I head to Europe (for the first time!) in two months. To say I'm excited is a major understatement. I have dreamed of traveling the world (like Mary-Kate and Ashley used to) since I was a little girl and finally that dream is coming true! I have been buried in travel books, vlogs, and blogs - preparing and planning for my trip! I love stripes, especially two different stripes paired together, this with a red lip reminds me of Paris.

This may be a "moot" post to some folks. It may be obvious or common sense but truth be told, this is a lot harder to do than most people realize. If my family or friends were to describe me in three words, they would most likely say: sensitive, empathetic, and passionate. I am a firm believer that if you do what you love, everything will fall into place (eventually). If you think about all the people that have found success in their life (not necessary monetary success) it's 100% because they have found something that they love to do. Whether success means living comfortably, going to a job everyday that makes you happy, having a family, meeting your life-long goal, meeting your short-term goal, etc., all of these things define "success'' because it's what you are passionate about.