By Louis Baragona
The day of your dream job interview has finally come. You wake up nerve-rackingly early, enter the office’s address into Google Maps for the hundredth time, and nervously pull on your best “adult” blazer. You set off for your destination, resume in hand, with a sense of hope for what’s to come—just don’t forget your headphones! The right song can set the tone for the day, and when it comes to a job interview, it’s important to feel your very best. I rely heavily on a Spotify playlist aptly titled “Confidence.” Here are a few tracks off it to get you pumped.
1. “Crazy In Love” by Beyoncé ft. Jay-Z
This Beyoncé jam is perfect for putting your best foot forward. I’d recommend it for when you haven’t quite arrived at the office, as you won’t be able to help but break into a powerful, Naomi Campbell-on-the-runway-style stomp wherever you are. You’re not quite a young Queen Bey in denim shorts, but at least you know you’ve got what it takes to make any employer fall crazy in love with you.
2. “Work From Home” by Fifth Harmony ft. Ty Dolla $ign
Okay, so maybe you won’t exactly be working from home, but you will be working. This song is an instant hairflip-inducing boost of energy. Think of it as a musical shot of espresso to propel you forward. You got this!
3. “Work” by Rihanna ft. Drake
Are you sensing a theme? Mixing work with play, Rihanna is the ultimate example of effortless confidence and Drake is a perfect addition to the Caribbean-infused beat. It doesn’t matter where you are, this one brings a bit of tropical sun and a fun vibe to any climate.
4. “Black Magic” by Little Mix
My friends tease me for loving such a cheesy song, but I’ve got no shame. It’s cheerful and fun, setting a perfect mood for positivity and happy thoughts. Give yourself a pep talk and remember your strengths.
5. “Got to Be Real” by Cheryl Lynn
Quick throwback. This one goes out to anyone struggling with answering interview questions. They can be tough and require some thought, but remember you’ve just got to be yourself.
6. “Work B*tch” by Britney Spears
Motivation, my friends. Nothing will make you feel as ambitious as Britney Spears reminding you what you want and what you’re going to have to do to get it. It’s not as much an ominous pop-synth command as it is a reminder of your ability. You can do this. Now, get to work.
7. “Drag Me Down” by One Direction
You know what they say: don’t frown because Zayn’s not in this one, smile because you’re about to be employed. (That’s it, right?) Either way, this song assures you that no matter what, you’ll never be dragged down. You’re about to prove it.
8. “Kill V. Maim” by Grimes
This track will help you shake off all of that nervous energy. The beat is slightly frantic, but it’s also addicting and energizing. Plus, it’ll be an added confidence boost if you can actually tell what she’s saying. I just stick to scream-singing words that sound like the lyrics, but don’t try that in public.
9. “Unwritten” by Natasha Bedingfield
If Lauren Conrad could pass up a trip to Paris and still end up a major success story, I think you’re going to be fine. This song, which was the theme for The Hills, always reminds me that my story is always unfolding. No need to worry about the what-ifs. The rest is still unwritten.
10. “Rather Be” by Clean Bandit ft. Jess Glynne
This one will put you in an instant good mood. Think of this as a chance to take, as the song says, an opportunity for you to grab. To quote DJ Khaled, shoot your shot.
11. “Feeling Myself” by Nicki Minaj ft. Beyoncé
All roads lead back to Beyoncé. Take a second to pat yourself on the back. Toot your own horn. Brag a bit. You’ve made it this far, so walk in there knowing you can and will continue to kill it.
12. “Perfect Day” by Hoku
You’ve arrived. Take a quick trip down memory lane. A little #TBT, if you will. This classic early-2000s standard was what played joyfully as Elle Woods threw her cap into the air at the end of Legally Blonde. You’re going to be just as great as Elle Woods. It’s a perfect day to score a job!
You’ve done it! Take a deep breath and walk confidently in the direction of new opportunities. If the interview goes well, celebrate. If it doesn’t, celebrate anyway. It’ll all work out. And if you’re not so sure about that, please go ahead and give “Unwritten” another listen.
Louis Baragona is a Brooklyn, NY-based journalist who spends most of his time watching informative reality television programs (any Real Housewives show) and eating alarming amounts of Chipotle. Follow him on Twitter @lounicorn_.
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