Michigan Business Beat | Dotty Wilinski, First Impressions Boutique - Provides Professional Attire

Michigan Business Network

Originally uploaded May 23rd, re-edited November 15th. Jeffrey Mosher welcomes Dotty Wilinski with First Impressions Boutique THEME: Dotty discusses First Impressions Boutique, a boutique that provides people with professional attire. Question: What is the First Impressions Boutique? ● The First Impressions Boutique is a public, professional closet for individuals in the Lansing Area in need of professional attire located at CAMW!’s Lansing American Job Center. ○ All clothing items are gently used and available free of charge. ● The boutique includes BOTH men's and women's clothing items, such as: ○ Suits. ○ Dresses. ○ Skirts. ○ Blouses. ○ Dress shirts. ○ Heels & dress shoes. ○ Jewelry. ● Clothing items in the boutique are generally used for: ○ Interviews. ○ Job & career fairs. ○ Networking events. ○ Other professional events. ● Question: What are the guidelines for individuals interested in donating items? ● As community members switch out their wardrobes for spring/summer, we encourage them to donate their interview-worthy clothing to the boutique. ● All clothing items must be business AND season-appropriate, clean and neatly folded or on a hanger. ● We encourage items to be five years old or less. ○ Individuals with vintage clothing items (10 years or older) should take them to a local vintage clothing store for resale. ● For those utilizing clothing from the boutique, a maximum of 3 outfits and 1 pair of shoes can be taken out once per month. ○ This allows for other individuals to have a wide selection of options when picking items. Question: Why is it important for career seekers to dress professionally during the interview process? And what are some tips for dressing for success? ● According to Pittsburg State University, “before the interview starts, you have already made an impression based on how you’re dressed.” ○ Dressing professionally during an interview shows respect to the company and the interviewer. ○ If possible, research the company’s dress code to understand better how they want to be represented. ○ Regardless of what you wear, feeling confident is most important so wear something that makes you feel your best. ● Tips for professional attire: ○ The night before the interview, lay out your outfit to ensure it isn’t wrinkled or has any stains. ○ Make sure the clothes are clean. Question: How can community members donate items? ● First Impressions Boutique accepts donations and is always open to accepting them. ○ Donations are accepted at Capital Area Michigan Works! Monday and Thursday during business hours by appointment only. ● Individuals interested in donating items may contact the following to make an appointment: ○ Dotty Wilinski at: [e-mail]. ○ Brandi Pettway at: [e-mail]. ● For additional resources, please contact Dotty Wilinski at: 517-492-5519. Question: What other steps can people take to prepare for a job interview? ● Begin by reviewing interview techniques and most importantly, practice! ● Before the interview: ○ Review the job description and specifications. ○ Review your resume and be prepared to discuss your relevant skills and experience. ○ Determine who your references are. ■ Current or past employers. ■ Coworker. ■ Teacher/professor. ● During the interview: ○ Take a breath and try to relax! ■ Think of the interview as a conversation, not an interrogation. ○ Listen to the questions carefully and give clear, concise, and thoughtful answers that include examples of your skills and/or short stories that demonstrate your qualifications. ○ Ask relevant questions about the job or the department. ○ End the interview by thanking the panel for their time and consideration.