Ready to make a big impression

The rules of basic grooming may seem obvious but when it comes to getting prepped and polished for a job interview, don't skip the small stuff and do be prepared for wrinkles, ragged cuticles and everything else.

Come clean

Whether it's the first handshake or handing over your résumé, make sure your hands and nails are well-manicured or, at the very least, clean.

To moisturise nail beds and tame craggy cuticles, cuticle oil with a brush tip for quick application. In a pinch, clear lipgloss or balm will erase any sign of dry nails or ashy elbows.

Interview clothes can be uncomfortable and problematic. A small can of static guard may come in handy to make sure your skirt doesn't stick to your legs when you stand up. A mist of hair spray can also eliminate static cling.

Wrinkles are almost inevitable, especially after a car ride. Downy Wrinkle Releaser spray comes in a travel-sized bottle and a few pumps relax wrinkles and freshen fabric.

Don't overdo it or you'll walk into the interview with visible wet spots.

Clear off any lint, rogue threads or dandruff with a travel-sized lint roller. A strip of duct or masking tape will work just as well. You'll be talking a lot. To make sure your breath is fresh, pop a mint or use Listerine breath strips.

And though you may be dusting off those lace-up oxfords or “sensible'' dress shoes for the first time in a long while, make sure they don't look as if they have been sitting in the back of your closet for years.

Give shoes and the edges and bottom of leather bags a few swipes with wipes for a polished finish.

A small scuff, unsightly hangnail or rumpled blouse doesn't normally read as a red flag but for a job interview, think about the tiny details of grooming as the first step towards making a strong first impression.