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Dress For The Interview

A recent study conducted by the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE) found that 44 percent of employers say it’s a job candidate’s general demeanor that first gets their attention during an interview. Without a doubt, the clothes you wear will have a significant impact on your appearance when presenting yourself for a job interview. Within the first minute or two of the interview, the employer will already have formed an impression of you based on your appearance, your manners, and you attitude. Choosing attire that tells the interviewer that you are competent, responsible, and well-mannered is the first step in presenting yourself as the type of employee that people want to hire.

Some will tell you that you should dress one level above what you would expect to wear to the job should you be hired, but an even safer method would be to dress two levels above. This often means wearing what is known as business dress—for men, a conservative suit or jacket, collared shirt, and tie. Be certain as well to wear a belt, leather dress shoes, and dark socks. The impression that a man dressed in the business style exudes is one of confidence and dependability. It is of utmost importance to leave the interviewer with a lasting impression of not only your confidence but also of your professionalism. If he or she understands that you take the interview seriously, the natural progression of thought will lead him or her to believe you will also take the job seriously.

For women, business casual also means a suit, although there is some debate over whether a pantsuit or skirt suit is preferred. In general, a skirt suit is more appropriate for an interview, but remember to keep the skirt a modest length—no higher than an inch above the knee. Remember to remove the stitches that may be holding the slit closed. Dark colors, like navy blue or black, are best, and coordinate your shoes with the suit. Choose a neutral pantyhose and wear professional heels (not trendy) that are no longer than two inches.

A neat, trim hairstyle is important for both men and women. Although times have certainly changed, the association that many make between long hair on a male and the hippie movement is still very strong. Only women should wear earrings of any kind, and even then only one pair. Other visible body rings (eyebrow, tongue, etc.) should be removed, and jewelry should be understated. In addition, avoid the use of cologne or perfume. If the interviewer does not care for the smell, you will be starting off the interview on the wrong foot, and if he or she happens to be allergic to your fragrance, you can rest assured you won’t be getting the call about this job.

If you’re uncertain as to what type of dress would be appropriate for your upcoming interview, call the company and ask them—they should be happy to provide you with guidelines. After all, you don’t want to show up for an interview at McDonald’s with a 3-piece suit on. For most part-time and summer jobs, the standard of dress is more relaxed, but you still want to present yourself as professional. Men should wear khakis or similar pants that are not baggy and that come to your natural waist. A collared shirt, usually long-sleeved, is also appropriate, but a tie is optional. A leather belt and shoes will complete your look. For women, there are fewer concrete guidelines, but a general rule should be to avoid outfits that are clingy, short, or low-cut—the goal is not to be sexy, unless you’re applying at Hooters.

As many times as you hear it, it still rings true: you never get a second chance to make a first impression. The importance of interview appearance cannot be overstated, and besides, when you dress with confidence, you feel more confident and will be able to perform better during the interview itself. It turns out you mother was right about tucking in your shirt!