A job interview is often your first face-to-face meeting with a potential employer. Making a positive first impression can often mean the difference between getting the job or not. Your choice of clothing is a critical component of how you are perceived by your interviewer. A few simple tips can help you dress for success.
In Most Cases, Suit Up
A rule of thumb regarding job interviews is to dress a little more conservatively than the job you are interviewing for requires. While today's workplace is often business casual, a dark blue or gray is still the expectation at most interviews.
Don't Overdress
While it's advisable, according to Collegegrad.com, to err on the side of conservative, there are instances where overdressing may be inappropriate. Some companies, especially those in the entertainment, fitness or software businesses, may prefer a relaxed, casual attitude. If you show up for your interview in a three-piece suit, you may come across as stuffy or out of touch with the industry. A tasteful two-piece suit is conservative, yet fashionable enough to adapt to most interview situations. For women, a stylish suit is adaptable to almost any interview situation, while a dress is riskier. Either flats or conservative heels are acceptable, but open-toed shoes or sandals may not be. For both men and women, your shirt or blouse should be a solid color or white.
Shine Your Shoes
Scuffed shoes send the message that you are not detail oriented. When you pair a sharp suit with distressed shoes, it makes you look like you cleaned up for the interview, but are really a slob at heart. Take the time to shine your shoes or buy new ones if need be.
Remove Unconventional Piercings
While piercings may be acceptable once you get the job, removing them for the interview is always the safe bet. Men should remove any visible piercings. Women should limit themselves to small, tasteful earrings.
Go Easy on the Perfume
Cologne or perfume may be fine for the weekend, but a strong scent can easily offend your interviewer. In the worst case, your interviewer may be allergic. If you want to smell good without overpowering your interviewer, spray a bit of your preferred scent on your interview shirt or blouse the night before, letting it air overnight. Do not apply scent the morning of your interview.
References
- CollegeGrad.com: How to Dress for a Job Interview
- "5 Steps To Professional Presence: How to Project Confidence, Competence, and Credibility at Work"; Susan Bixler and Lisa Scherrer Dugan; 2000
Member Comments