You only get once chance to make a first impression!
Knowing exactly what to wear to a job interview can be tricky, but dressing appropriately is one of our top interview tips because it is so critical.
When you’re planning what to wear, keep in mind that the first impression is a lasting impression. It doesn’t matter how much education you have, if your experience makes you the best person for the job or if you have all of the mandatory job skills. If your appearance leaves the interviewer cold, it’s likely that the job will go to the candidate that dresses professionally and appropriately.
Dress conservatively.
Deciding what to wear doesn’t mean you need to spend a fortune, but your look should be professional and up-to-date. Make sure your clothing fits correctly and avoid loose or too-tight garments. Opt for neutral styles and colors such as grey, off-white or dark blue.
If you want to add personality and a touch of color, wear a bright tie or scarf, but avoid garish prints. Avoid flashy jewelry and accessorize with a classy, understated watch, ring, earrings or bracelet. Save your tank tops, flip flops and sandals for the beach and stick with sleeved shirts and closed-toed shoes. Women should wear simple pumps or flats and no stiletto heels. Avoid cleavage-baring blouses, which may leave the wrong impression.
Dress appropriately for the job you’re seeking.
A conservative pantsuit or business suit is in order for an office job, but slacks or skirt and a tucked-in shirt with a blazer may be good enough for a more casual job environment. While it’s important to dress for success, you don’t want to look overly formal, too stuffy, or out of place. If you’re in doubt, call the human resource department and ask about the company’s dress code. The company won’t mind, and in fact, will see your interest as a sign of respect. Researching the company beforehand is always a good idea.
No matter how you decide what to wear, be clean.
Take a shower, and then use deodorant or antiperspirant. Brush and floss your teeth, then pop in a breath mint before the interview. Don’t use perfumes or scented lotions or deodorant because your interviewer may be sensitive to the chemicals in fragrances. Wash your hands and don’t forget to scrub your wrists and under your fingernails – which should be neatly trimmed. Polish your shoes. Launder your suit or send it to a drycleaner, then make sure it’s neatly pressed and free of worn areas or tears. Shave the morning of your interview. Comb your hair neatly, and if you’re shaggy, get a haircut or a new, updated style.
If you’re on a tight budget, a trip to an outlet mall or sales rack may help you decide what to wear. Avoid trendy styles and purchase something basic, and then change the look with a different tie, shirt or scarf.
Take a last look in the mirror before you head out the door for your interview. Hold your head up high, smile, and remember that you’re about to present an image to a perspective employer. Your decision what to wear and the resulting image makes a huge difference and may be the deciding factor in acing the interview.
This Interview Dress guide offers tips for men and women on interview dress styles as well as other interview tips for the big day.