When you finally get the chance to be interviewed for your dream position you want everything to be perfect. Including the outfit you’re wearing. Often times we are unsure what to wear or how dressy we should be. This blog will provide tips on what to wear to an interview and what not to wear.
Most of the time it depends on what type of environment where you will be working. Take note of what other employees are wearing when applying for the job or dropping off your resume. Although it is preferred to be overdressed than under dressed you don’t want to be extreme. The following lists are what I have found to be the most appropriate for men and women to wear during their interview.
Men:
- Solid colored suits- navy or grey
- Long sleeved shirt
- Belt
- Tie
- Dark socks that match the suit
- Neat hairstyle and facial grooming
- Little to no jewelry
Women
- Suits- navy, black or dark grey
- If ladies wear a skirt they should be able to sit comfortably
- Appropriate matching blouse
- Coordinating shoes with a small heel
- Limited jewelry- keep it simple!
- Neutral pantyhose
- Good grooming habits
- Neatly manicured nails
For both men and women, make sure your cologne/perfume is light. Also make a habit to bring a professional looking portfolio or briefcase in hand to show off your talents.
..What Not to Have..
- Cell Phone
- Gum
- Purse
- Drinks
- Ipod or other electronic devices
Other tips include: be sure to cover any tattoos or piercings, make sure your clothing fits comfortably before your interview, clean your shoes or have them polished, and for added security pop in a breath mint before you walk into the building.
You can always look nice without having to spend a lot of money. If you don’t have a good business suit you should consider buying one. 55% of someone’s perception of you is based on your appearance, according to Kim Zoller at Image Dynamics. With such a high percentage lets make sure that representation of ourselves is portrayed positively.
The following link provides a video to get that perfect interview outfit with help from Kim Johnson Gross.
http://video.about.com/fashion/What-to-Wear-to-an-Interview.htm
For more information regarding dressing for your upcoming interview check out these sites:
http://jobsearch.about.com/od/interviewsnetworking/a/dressforsuccess.htm- Dressing for success
http://jobsearch.about.com/od/interviewattire/a/interviewdress.htm- Interview dress tips
http://jobsearch.about.com/cs/interviews/a/tieatie.htm- How to Tie a Tie
http://www.collegegrad.com/interview/whattoweartoajobinterview.shtml- Transitioning from College to the Real World
