First impressions really count, and an employer's opinion of a job candidate may be partially based on what he or she wears to an interview.
So what's the proper way to dress when interviewing? It depends on the company and type of job, but dressing conservatively is always better than dressing too casually. At minimum, you should plan to wear an outfit that is at least one step above what the employee dress code requires. You want your interviewer to feel that you care enough about the job to look your best.
Clothing plays a supporting role in the interview process; it should not take center stage. Here are some suggestions for choosing an outfit that keeps the focus of the interview squarely on you and your job qualifications:
WOMEN
- A tailored skirt suit, pant suit, or dress or skirt with matching jacket is best. Do not wear tight or clinging clothes and trendy outfits. Choose a dark, basic color such as navy, black, burgundy, or charcoal grey. Either solid or a subtle pinstripe pattern is acceptable.
- Avoid skirts shorter than knee-length and those with high splits. Be sure that you can comfortably sit down, stand up, walk around, and climb stairs.
- If wearing a suit or skirt, wear a light-colored shell or button-down shirt. Avoid sleeveless, sheer, ruffled, and low-cut blouses.
- If you wear a belt, choose one that is small and has a simple buckle.
- Low- or medium-heeled leather pumps in a dark color are the best choice. Avoid open-toed shoes, slingbacks, flats, boots, and very high heels. Be sure that the shoes are not scuffed, and that the heels and soles are not worn. If new, be sure to break them in before the interview.
- Hosiery should be sheer, with no patterns, and match your skin tone. Make sure that there are no runs.
- Jewelry should be minimal and simple. Limit yourself to one ring per hand, a wristwatch, and a necklace. Wear only one pair of earrings, and remove any facial piercings. Avoid anything that dangles or jingles or is otherwise distracting.
- Makeup should be natural-looking. Avoid bright colors and heavy application.
- Hair should be freshly cleaned and neatly combed. Be sure that your bangs are trimmed, and pull back your hair if it tends to fall across your face.
- Fingernails should be short to medium length, and manicured with either clear or light-colored polish.
- Wear little or no perfume.
- If possible, cover any tattoos.
MEN
- Wear a tailored suit, or matching pants and a sport jacket, in a basic color such as navy, black, or charcoal grey. Either solid or a subtle pinstripe pattern is acceptable.
- Your shirt should be long-sleeved, either white or some other light color, and have a collar. Do not roll up your sleeves.
- Choose a matching tie in a dark or muted color. A small pattern or basic stripe is suitable. Avoid ties with bright colors, large prints, cartoon characters, and holiday themes.
- Wear a dark leather or leather-like belt with a simple buckle.
- Shoes should be leather and dark-colored. Be sure to shine them before the interview. Choose a style that allows you to walk comfortably. Do not wear boots, sneakers, or sandals.
- Choose dark-colored socks that match the rest of your outfit. Never wear white socks. They should be at least at mid-calf, so that your bare legs don't show when you sit down.
- Keep jewelry to a minimum. Remove any earrings or facial piercings. Cover any tattoos as much as possible.
- Be sure that your hair is clean and neatly combed. Have a clean shave, but do not use heavy amounts of after-shave lotion. Beards and mustaches, if worn, should be trimmed and well-groomed.
- Your nails should be clean and neatly trimmed.
- Do not keep coins, keys, or other jingling objects in your pockets.
If you're actively interviewing, it's a good idea to have a few outfits ready to go. This means you've checked in advance that there's no lint, wrinkles, missing buttons, stains, and loose threads. Keeping the clothing in dry cleaner plastic or a garment bag will ensure that it remains in tip-top shape until needed -- giving you one less thing to worry about as you prepare for your interview!
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