Dressing for Interview Success
Something that many people struggle with is figuring out exactly what to wear for an interview. What you wear helps form that important first impression and creates an image of the type of person you are. There may not be a direct correlation between the length of your tie and the length of the qualifications on your resume, but attention to your attire can tell an interviewer a lot about the type of professional you are, as well as your level of interest and dedication in landing the position.
Many make the mistake of “dressing down” for positions with little or no dress code to match the office culture. While this may seem logical at first let us remind you, you get one chance to make a first impression and you still want to project that you are a professional who is extremely dedicated in securing this position. Take your decision on what to wear to your interview very seriously, and your interviewer will likely assume you will take your job very seriously. Always consider that an interview is your time to put your best foot forward and project the “best version of yourself”; you can’t be too polished and poised when your dream job is on the line.
Check out our list of attire tips listed below:
Men’s Interview Attire
- Suit (solid color – navy or dark grey)
- Long sleeve shirt (white or coordinated with the suit)
- Belt
- Tie
- Dark socks, conservative leather shoes
- Little or no jewelry
- Neat, professional hairstyle
- Limit the aftershave
- Neatly trimmed nails
- Portfolio or briefcase
Women’s Interview Attire
- Pant suit, skirt suit or dress (navy, black or dark grey)
- Coordinated blouse
- Conservative shoes
- Limited jewelry (no dangling earrings or arms full of bracelets)
- Professional hairstyle
- Light make-up and perfume
- Neatly manicured clean nails
- Portfolio or briefcase
Tips for Everyone:
- Make sure your clothing is clean and wrinkle-free
- Pick your interview outfit the day before so there is no chance of running late because of wardrobe malfunction.