Got a big job interview lined up? Let’s be honest—first impressions matter, and your hair has a starring role.
If you’ve ever agonized in front of the mirror about whether to go sleek or messy-bun chic, trust me, you’re not alone. You don’t need to be on the red carpet to get celebrity treatment. With a little help from Kenna Kennor—a stylist known for giving stars that you’ve-got-this energy and Britt Lower’s husband—you can step into your next interview looking composed, confident, and entirely yourself.
Keep It Simple: The Power of “Polished-but-You”
Kenna is a big believer that less is more, especially in settings like interviews. You want your hair to look like you, just on your best day. Forget elaborate braids or trend-chasing styles that distract from your face and words. For most people, clean, healthy-looking hair, neatly styled, speaks volumes about your attention to detail and confidence.
For guys: a little styling cream, a neat part, and no visible gel crusties. For gals: a soft wave, a classic low pony, or a tidy bun all do the trick—nothing tight enough to cause a headache hours in, nothing messy enough to appear rushed.
Prep Ahead—Not Fifteen Minutes Before the Interview
If you’re a snooze-button champion, hear this: the best hair starts the night before. Kenna’s basic ritual: wash and condition, give your scalp a little massage for boost, and air dry as much as you can to preserve softness. If you must heat style, always use a protectant.
Set out your tools and products in advance. That way, you’re not rushing around, fighting with a flat iron cord, or discovering you’re out of hair spray five minutes before your Zoom call.
Don’t Let Nerves Ruin Your Style
Tend to get stress-sweaty? Kenna loves a dusting of dry shampoo at the roots for volume and to absorb oil. If you know you’ll fuss with your hair, pick a style you won’t feel the need to adjust every ten minutes. Pins and elastics can help keep everything in place with minimal fidgeting.
Your hair should be one thing you don’t have to worry about after you leave the house. Once you style it, leave it alone.
Read the Room—And Your Industry
Banking interview? Go for classic, controlled, and modest—think neat pony or side part, nothing flashy. Creative field? Kenna says don’t be afraid to let a bit of your real personality through. If colored hair or a cool accessory is really you (and you know it’ll fly at the office), own it—but make it intentional.
A Final Touch—Shine and Softness
Kenna’s last step: a tiny dab of serum or shine spray on the ends for a healthy boost. Never at the roots, so you don’t look oily on-camera or in person.
So, channel your inner A-lister, take a deep breath, and remember—your hair doesn’t have to steal the show, just set the stage.
