When deciding how to dress for a job interview, the best adjectives to describe the appropriate look would be professional and conservative. Though the clothes you wear will not necessarily land you the job, they can quickly take you out of contention. It takes the average interviewer only seconds to decide that you are not what they are looking for; it takes a much longer time for them to decide that you are. Thus your first impression is critical in keeping their interest in you open. Your clothing should present a clean and well-dressed open canvas to your potential employer so that they may focus on your abilities rather than your loud polka dot shirt.
A general rule in appropriate interview attire states that you should dress in clothing that is appropriate for a position one or two levels higher than the job you are campaigning for. This will display to the potential employer that you have taken a profound interest in attaining the position, as well as the fact that you know the game. This general rule accounts for the differences in proper attire between someone interviewing for a mechanics position rather than a business executive.
An interview is not a suitable place to attempt to make a fashion statement, unless you are searching for a position in certain art fields. Clothing should be conservative in style and color. Shades of blues and grays are often recommended. Black suits can appear too formal and severe, so if you choose to wear black, be sure to wear another color close to your face to soften the look. The items should be clean and well pressed, with no rips or snags.
The following is a break down of interview grooming tips from head to toe:
1. Clean hair, styled away from the face - the interviewer should be able to see your eyes at all times.
2. No heavy make-up. Teeth should be brushed and breath freshened. No gum or candy.
3. Wear minimal cologne or perfume – you do not want to suffocate the interviewer.
4. Jewelry should be kept to a minimum – no facial jewelry, no more than two rings per hand, and no more than one earring in each ear.
5. Nails should be neat. No wild nail polish, that goes for women and men.
6. Clothing should be current – that 70’s leisure suit will not help you get the job. No leather blazers.
7. No short skirts – hemlines should be no more than 3 inches above the knee. No bare legs – wear stockings in a neutral color – yes, even on a humid summer day.
8. No open-toed or backless shoes – your footwear should be relatively neutral.
A final tip suggests that you research your industries particular fashion culture, as well as the potential employers idea of appropriate attire. While setting up your interview ask about the company’s dress code, but remember that it is always better to dress slightly more professional than the common code requires. Put your best foot forward and you will be in the door and on your way through a successful interview.
- National Career Network |
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