Career Advice
What You Can Learn About Going Back to Work With Confidence From Meghan Markle
Glassdoor Team
Glassdoor Team | Author & Career Expert at Glassdoor | 12 Mar 2019
Meghan Markle has achieved an incredible amount in a rather short period of time. Not yet ready to rest on her laurels, though, the Duchess has announced her first royal patronage at Smart Works (alongside three others) — an incredible charity which helps support vulnerable and unemployed women get back to work. Impressively, since it was set up in 2013, 60 percent of those women who have worked with Smart Works have gone on to gain employment.
There is a lot to be learnt from the work of Meghan Markle alongside that of Smart Works, particularly for those women who are currently looking for jobs. So we thought we would take a look at their three core services and how they can help you in finding future employment.
1. Dress the Part
Smart Works provides unemployed women with a smart wardrobe, allowing them to feel more confident when they go to job interviews. Normally, each of their clients receives a two-hour styling session with one of the volunteers. Not only are they offered this personal styling service — they are also able to keep the clothes. What You Can Learn: A clear takeaway from this service is the importance of dressing well for an interview. Not only will this present you in the best possible light, but it will also help you improve your confidence as a smart outside helps to improve your composure, posture and belief. If you are struggling to invest in a smart outfit, it may be worth asking a friend (or your mum) to borrow an outfit that makes you feel your very best, inside and out.2. Properly Prepare
At Smart Works, every one of their clients receives one-to-one interview preparation and coaching with an experienced HR professional or senior manager. What You Can Learn: You really never can be overprepared for an interview, and, of course, if you have access to a trained professional that could be a fantastic asset. However, if this isn’t an option, you can always research the company, industry or even get a friend to ask you some of the most common interview questions, which can handily be found here. Remember: failure to prepare is preparing to fail.3. Confidence Is Key
Whilst Meghan Markle was no stranger to the spotlight, becoming a member of the Royal Family saw her celebrity status skyrocket. However, Markle has handled the entire affair with grace and aplomb. But you don’t need to be married to a Royal to have Meghan-esque levels of confidence. What You Can Learn: Try leveraging the following techniques to boost your confidence before an interview:- Try some simple breathing techniques to increase your confidence and help you stay relaxed. Try slow, deep breathing to help bring the oxygen to your brain and allow you to think clearly.
- Being kind to yourself can be of tremendous importance, remember to think positively and the world will mirror your enthusiasm.
- You could also try doing some power poses to help calm your nerves and make yourself feel more confident.
Glassdoor Team
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