What does one wear to a job interview at a zoo???

[SallyMander]

I have an interview coming up next Friday (NERVOUS!!!), and i need wardrobe help.

I think i have a pretty good idea what one would wear to an interview for a "normal" academic or business position... but this gig is a research biologist at a zoo. I'm going to meet with people all day who are wearing jeans and may or may not be covered in turtle poo. :D

So what do you think, Loungies? A skirt and heels will look out of place... but are nice pants too informal? Help!

[puerco-bellies]

1. Meat pinned to your coat?

[SallyMander]

3. Hmmm

Most of the critters i deal with eat bugs, so that probably won't impress them. :D

[puerco-bellies]

10. Are you a herpetologist?

If so cool, I assumed that Sally was your first name.

[SallyMander]

12. I am!

My grad work has all been on salamanders, but this job will probably be more frog-centric (if i can get it!). It's a position for an amphibian conservation biologist. :D

:hi:

[puerco-bellies]

25. I used to find tiny ones in the foothills above LA years ago.

I'm not randomly flipping rocks anymore so I don't know if they are still around. Frogs and toads are getting scarce around these parts.

[SallyMander]

29. That's happening all over the world

a lot of it is due to a fungal disease, chytridiomycosis, which was only discovered in 1998 -- but it has ravaged amphibian populations out west, in Central America, and Australia especially. Then there is the standard habitat destruction and pollution, both of which also do them in. :(

That's why i'm so excited about this job -- it gives me an opportunity to actually DO something, instead of just reading about the extinction crisis.

[Maraya1969]

65. I think that is so cool! I do not have a good time dealing with the

salamanders (or lizards whatever they are) who meet their end in my house at the hands of one of my kitties. But I think they are really cute outside and especially when they are tiny babies.

[SallyMander]

87. Baby salamanders are adorable!

:hi:

[KitchenWitch]

2. My guess would be chinos and a nice blouse.

[SallyMander]

5. Do you think a nice sweater would be too informal?

I am ALWAYS cold... don't want to be shivering all day. :)


Thanks!!! :hug:

[Critters2]

14. I'd think a nice sweater would be fine.

Wouldn't want to be too casual for an interview, cuz you want 'em to know this matters to you. But don't want to be too formal for the setting, either. Chinos and a sweater should be good, imo.

[quip]

44. That's okay. Nipples seal the deal!

:rofl: Okay, I gotta settle down.

I'd dress like Teri Irwin does. Or as if you were an REI model. The outdoorsy, active, camper-type look. You'll be terrific! :thumbsup:

[SallyMander]

56. ...

:spank:


:rofl:


Thanks for the vote of confidence though! :D

[CreekDog]

4. SF Zoo?

Armor.

[SallyMander]

6. No, Philly

So maybe still armor. ;)

[CreekDog]

8. Well, outside the zoo

Inside I'm sure you're safer. ;)

[HiFructosePronSyrup]

7. Albino crocidile shoes.

And a beret of poodle on your noodle.

[SallyMander]

11. ...

:spray:


Rats, i wanted to wear my chapeau de red panda!

[MrCoffee]

9. koala fur coat

[SallyMander]

24. ...

:spank:

[GoddessOfGuinness]

13. Do you have a nice blazer that would look good with the pants?

I'm no expert, but I would think that looks very professional without being over-dressed.

Good luck on the interview! :hug:

[SallyMander]

16. Hmmm, i do have one i bought ages ago...

I will have to dig it out and see if it's acceptable... that's a good idea! :think:

Thanks for the luck -- i will need it! :D

[Maraya1969]

67. Thirding on the blazer.

[Bunny]

38. Yeah, I second the blazer. With dark slacks, flat shoes, and a

button down-type blouse. Professional enough for the setting, not too casual but not overdone.

[zabet]

15. Safari gear!!

Even the pith helmet!!

:P

[SallyMander]

19. Only if i can find a safari truck to rent

so i can roll up in that!

:rofl:

[Flaxbee]

17. my sister

has been the veterinarian at Sea World and is a PhD research marine biologist/marine vet. She usually wears dark trousers, navy or black, and if it's a business meeting, she'll have a blazer, maybe with a shell or sweater underneath, depending on weather. ALWAYS has on good walking shoes - if she has to be in the park as a vet, it'll be tennis shoes, but if she's in her research capacity (not in the park, in other words) she usually has on nice, dark loafers or flats with knee-high socks. She's cruising around in watery areas all day - just puddles of water as one would expect in a marine research area - and needs to make sure the soles of the shoes are non-skid/no-slip. If it's a more casual meeting, she'll wear trousers, and a sweater set. Small, discrete jewelry, if any. Actually, I think it's important to have a watch, just because you have to keep track of so many feeding, medicating, etc., times.

Since it's winter, I'd say go with a darker palette. Do you have a cool, rugged-style blazer? What are your options? You don't want to look like you wouldn't/couldn't just dive in and wade thru poo, but you also don't want to look like you're too casual.

[SallyMander]

27. Thanks for the advice!

WOW, your sis has an amazing job!!!

I think i'll probably go with either khakis or dark pants... then either a sweater or blazer... i may have to buy something new, but that's OK. Mainly i don't want to be cold/uncomfortable, because i am going to be meeting with people fromm 9-5! But i want to look professional, too.

Thanks again! :hi:

[Flaxbee]

35. yeah, buying an investment piece for an interview

can be a good thing. I'd say go for a blazer, if possible, but make sure it's comfy/has some stretch/something you can really move in (w/o being too bulky). There are also some nice 'cardigan blazers' out there - sweaters cut like blazers / blazers cut like sweaters, but you have to make sure it doesn't look dorky. The idea is fantastic (see Coco Chanel) but sometimes the execution can be iffy.

Best of luck! My sister *loooves* her job, I hope you get the job! :hi:


edited b/c I'm anal and Chanel's piece is called a "cardigan blazer" and I have the serious hots for one, even though they are obscenely expensive :D

[SallyMander]

37. I should probably get a decent blazer

I have one, but it's old and cheap. :)

Thanks for the good luck! I am trying not to get my hopes up, but i know i would just love this job!

:hi:

[Parche]

28. What Do Animals Wear For Human jobs?

:shrug: :hi:

[SallyMander]

30. OMG! He's hired!

:rofl:

[FloridaJudy]

18. Leopard skin pill-box hat.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oogC0VMaAe0

[SallyMander]

22. Great song!

:thumbsup:

[Bucky]

20. Make sure that you accessorize with the right hunting gear.

[SallyMander]

31. I actually would have to be trained in firearm usage

if i got the job -- just in case a polar bear escapes and can't be sedated. I'd also have to learn how to handle venomous snakes. My parents are not so thrilled about that aspect. :P

[Left Is Write]

21. Nice pants, turtleneck or blouse, blazer or cardigan.

Go for a look that's professional and polished, even if you will get to wear jeans to work when you are hired.

[SallyMander]

32. Cool, that's what i was hoping people would say

I want to look professional but not overdressed. Thanks for the advice! :hi:

[Sanity Claws]

23. No fur

I think it depends on what kind of job you're interviewing for. If it's something in PR, skirt and heels might be appropriate. If the job is feeding the lions, pants would be more appropriate.

[SallyMander]

33. It's a biologist job

Mostly research, so it'll be pretty down and dirty. Definitely will never be wearing a skirt, that's for sure! :D

[Sanity Claws]

36. Flaxbee gave you wonderful advice

Someone else also mentioned a blazer. Another good idea. You can always wear it on days off when you want to look nice.

[SallyMander]

39. I think so too!

I'm sure it's worthwhile to buy something nice -- after all, if i don't get this job, there will be more interviews in the future!

[hippywife]

26. I'm really not sure but

I wish you luck with the interview. :hi:

[SallyMander]

34. Thank you!

I'm already nervous and it's not until next Friday... this job would be amazing!

:hi:

[texas1928]

40. This will get you the job.

[SallyMander]

42. Hrmmmm

Don't think so.

:P

[texas1928]

109. See two other people agree.

You should wear that.

[SallyMander]

120. Yeah, but one of them is my doofus of a fiance

He doesn't count. :P

[texas1928]

123. OH MAN!!! He does not count.

MAN that's harsh.

[Pierre.Suave]

55. SHE IS HIRED...

For what, I cant say, but DAMN she has got the job...

:P

[IzaSparrow]

58. I second!

we could go out, or stay home :evilgrin:

[SPKrazy]

41. Khaki Shorts And Shirt

and an African Safari Hat

knee socks

and I dunno what kind of shoes,

:rofl:

[SallyMander]

43. So i should basically dress like Steve Irwin?

:rofl:

[SPKrazy]

46. i was going to post a pic

but thought better of it

Steve Irwin :(

[SallyMander]

47. RIP

He did a lot for conservation awareness, and clearly loved what he did. I was sad to hear about his death. :(

[SPKrazy]

76. yeah

he had a family too

:(

[SPKrazy]

85. Good Luck though!

I'm sure other fashion experts here (not me believe me) will give you real suggestions

:hi:

:hug:

[SallyMander]

86. Thanks SPK!

I'll let you all know how it goes! :hug:

[Gonzo Gardener]

45. ...

[SallyMander]

48. Ooh, where are those from?

I especially like the top one.

[Gonzo Gardener]

49. Coldwater Creek

http://www.coldwatercreek.com/products/product.aspx?productid=39123&ensembleid=44954

[SallyMander]

54. Thanks!

:hi:

[jmowreader]

50. Nice pants, polo and rubber boots

Dress like you were intending to go to work...right now.

[SallyMander]

52. Rubber boots might be a bit much!

:rofl:

I wish i were brave enough to try...

[triguy46]

51. Pith helmet, jodpurs, boots, whip. And a chair.

[SallyMander]

53. I have to carry a chair around all day???

:rofl:


It's not a lion-tamer position, btw! :D

[triguy46]

60. My mistake. Though a chair could be handy during the boring tour they'll take you on.

Sheesh, animals, shmanimals, seen one, yaddda, where's my office?

[poiuytsister]

57. The most important thing is wear your favorite thing so you feel

confident. A new outfit is great (says the shopaholic) but I usually go with something I already own and love and know I look good in. It's all about the self confidence. And don't forget to smile. And sit up straight and use eye contact. Send them a thank you note as soon as you get home.

And let us know how it went. We'll all be waiting to hear.

Good luck!

[SallyMander]

59. Thanks for the advice!

Seriously, those are great tips. Especially the thank-you note -- very classy!

Sounds silly, but i've already decided that i'll wear my hair down -- in some ways it is like a security blanket for me -- i always feel more confident when it's loose than when it's pinned up. Odd but true. And you're right, it's all about feeling good about yourself and projecting that confidence!

(Remind me again of this next Thursday night when i'm shaking in my boots, LOL! :P )

[LibertyLover]

61. I like the idea of the nice pants, button-down shirt and blazer

Maybe a small pin on the blazer lapel - do you happen to have a small frog pin? A touch of whimsy to make you smile inside and help make the interview go well. The best of luck to you!

[SallyMander]

63. Thank you!

I LOVE the idea of the frog pin... i don't think i have one, but maybe i could find one before then.

I've been debating this very idea, because i have to bring a binder with me full of materials i've prepared. So i have two options -- bring along a business-like satchel bag, or bring my small messenger bag -- which happens to be bright yellow and have a large salamander on it. :D What do you think??

[redwitch]

66. I have a frog pin I would love to give you!

I am a jewelry rep and a line I used to rep gave me a really sweet green enamelled frog pin, I don't know what kind he is. I was cleaning my desk last week and found him in a drawer. He's yours if you want him! My contribution to good mojo in the job hunt. let me know where to send the little fella. :hi:

[SallyMander]

75. OMG - redwitch, this totally just made me tear up

What a wonderful, sweet offer. I would absolutely love it.

Yet more evidence that DUers are among the best in the world... :hug: :hug: :hug:


I will PM you my address! :bounce:

[Gonzo Gardener]

71. Handmade enameled pieces...

Barb's enameled pins and necklaces are wonderful and her prices are reasonable too.


http://www.barbpel.com/Pages/gallery/odd.html

edit to add:

[SallyMander]

77. Adorable!

:loveya:

It's even a treefrog -- that's the kind i'll be talking about :D

[LibertyLover]

98. While I like the idea of the salamander bag

I honestly think that the more sober bag is the best way to go for the interviews. Don't freak the mundanes too much, too soon. :evilgrin:

[SallyMander]

99. Yeah, i think you're right

At least i'll have a frog pin though! :bounce:

[DarkTirade]

62. Leather jacket, snake or gator-skin boots

and maybe a nice mink stole.

[SallyMander]

64. You know what's coming

:spank: :spank: :spank: :spank: :spank: :spank: :spank: :spank: :spank: :spank:

[DarkTirade]

68. Ooh, maybe a bald eagle feather in your hat would help... :)

[KitchenWitch]

69. Your birthday suit!

:D

[SallyMander]

78. Bad KitchenWitch!

:spank:

:rofl:

[KitchenWitch]

70. Your Galapagos Turtleskin Vest!

:evilgrin:

[SallyMander]

79. See post 78

You are sassy tonight! :D

[Pale Blue Dot]

72. No advice, just good luck!

Sounds like a really cool job!

[SallyMander]

80. Thanks Finnfan!

I'm trying not to get my hopes up too much... but it's difficult, because i already have so many ideas about it -- they just need to hire me! :D

[northzax]

73. ask them. Seriously

whoever your host is, ask what sort of activities they expect from you. They will give you guidelines, unless they are just jerks :)

Or just go with the snow leopard stole.

[SallyMander]

81. LOL

I've already been told i won't have much time to see the zoo, except the area i'd be working with. I think i'm just going to be meeting with individuals and small groups all day -- so i don't think i need to worry about walking around a ton. :shrug:

I hope they're not jerks, or i don't wanna work there! :D

[carly denise pt deux]

74. Real fur/ animal skin prints would probably be not a wise move..but.....

A nice black pinstripe pant/jacket with nice blouse would do

Carly

[SallyMander]

82. Thanks Carly!

Seems like there is good consensus on the idea of nice pants and a blouse/blazer. I'll have to post a pic once i have the outfit, since i've gotten so much good advice! :hi:

[lost-in-nj]

83. HI!! not sure what to wear

I would imagine a nice pair of slacks and a nice sweater

would be ok...


I wanted to wish you

GOOD LUCK!!!!!!!!!!!

wow to work in a Zoo...
I got to go "behind the scenes" at the San Diego Zoo
years ago... they hit my fave.... elephants.....

I LOVE THEM


it was awesome



lost

[SallyMander]

84. Thank you lost!!!

I REALLY appreciate all the good luck wishes -- i am nervous! This would be such an amazing job... but i am trying not to get my hopes up too much.

BUT, if i get it, you know you can get a behind-the-scenes tour any time! :D :hug:

Must have been awesome seeing the San Diego zoo -- that is supposed to be an excellent one!

[Ellen Forradalom]

88. A monkey suit

AKA business attire :-)

[SallyMander]

89. *giggle*

[billyskank]

91. I was going to say

a gorilla suit.

Evidently with your brains around here, I am not needed.

[struggle4progress]

90. A T-shirt with an amphibian joke on it and workboots

Show them you're (1) smart (2) have a sense of humor and (3) not afraid to get dirty

[SallyMander]

100. Hehee

Maybe if i get called back for a SECOND interview ;)

[SPKrazy]

92. Leopard Print Pant Suit

[SallyMander]

101. ...

:spray:


I don't have the first idea where to find one of those... :P

[krispos42]

93. Something closed-toe on your feet

And perhaps something from the chain mail department would be in order. Just in case.

[SallyMander]

102. It's reptiles and amphibians, not bears

So i think i'll be ok. :hi:

[krispos42]

107. Well...

You never know where or when drunk teenagers and inadequate architecture will combine, yanno? :-)

[SallyMander]

108. LOL!

Good point. I hadn't thought of that. :think:

[Fire Walk With Me]

94. If you're going to be working with frogs, this interview requires a hat.

[SallyMander]

103. OMG!!!

Cutest thing EVER!!! :loveya:

[Fire Walk With Me]

110. Good luck!

[SallyMander]

112. Thanks Peake!

:hi:

[LanternWaste]

95. After some consideration, I think you might try this...

This obviously...




As though any would have to ask... :evilgrin:


On Edit: Picture way too big an obnoxious. It was a banana-man costume.

[SallyMander]

104. Hmm, banana-man, eh?

Not sure that's what they're looking for... but it could be popular with the fruit-eating reptiles! :D

[MissMillie]

96. I think nice pants would be plenty formal

a skirt and high heels will be totally out of place.

[SallyMander]

105. Thanks MissMillie!

I'm glad people seem to think so -- i want to look professional, but not overdressed. I was NOT looking forward to walking around all day in heels! x(

:hug:

[Chan790]

97. Best dressing advice for interview I ever got...

was to dress for the job you're applying for, but to be the best-dressed person in the interview.

If the dress code is turtle-poo jeans and a tee-shirt, I'd guess that means casual khakis (or skirt, or dress) and a polo/blouse/dress shirt. Wear a watch. For that job, I would say that footwear is important...no heels, no nice shoes, wear what you'd wear normally but make sure they're prim. (Clean, polished, not ratty laces, etc.)

Lets put it another way: "Dress like you'd dress if you had an international press conference at 2:30 to announce the biggest biology finding in 25 years, weren't going to have time to change, and knew you had to work a full-day to that point." Functional, yet classy.

[SallyMander]

106. This is great advice!

Thanks so much! :D

[conscious evolution]

111. Like a big game hunter

:hide:

[SallyMander]

116. ...

:P

[ElsewheresDaughter]

113. just make sure it isn't what this chimp had on......wouldn't want this to happen

[SallyMander]

115. Yikes!

What is going on there???

[Blue-Jay]

114. a condom.

[SallyMander]

117. ???

???

[VenusRising]

118. A gorilla suit?

:P


I'm sure that whatever you choose will be tasteful and appropriate. Good luck with the interview, sweetie.

:hi::hug:

[SallyMander]

119. Thank you!

I need the luck... i am already nervous!!! :scared:

How are you??? :hug:

[VenusRising]

121. I'm doing pretty well.

Trying to stay warm in these frigid temps. Just being lazy for the most part. ;)

Don't be nervous. You'll be great and win them over with your charming personality and dazzling smile.

And show them a picture of Elmo, your new puppy, and the rest of the menagerie. Pull on their heartstrings. It's all legal. :D

[SallyMander]

125. Seriously -- we just took the dogs to the park

I almost froze my you-know-whats off! :rofl:

I'm making a binder with all my project ideas... it has many adorable frog shots. I hadn't thought about including Elmo... :think:

Hope you and ZI have a warm and snuggliferous night! :hug:

[VenusRising]

127. Thanks, sweetie.

I wish the same for you and Iza. :hug:


I think the picture of Elmo lying on the moss would be especially binder worthy. :)

Stay warm.

[Chovexani]

122. You could always dress like this

:D

[SallyMander]

124. OMG - that's adorable

:rofl:


How are you doing? :hug:

[Chovexani]

128. TGIF!

If ya know what I mean! :hug:

[zanne]

126. Just don't pick a fight with a monkey.

You'll have to apologize. (Thinking about a Seinfeld episode re; Kramer). "But he started it!"