The Right Outfit Can Get You The Job

Searching for a job can be a difficult task. But when you receive a call back from a potential employer it can be exciting and may leave you a little anxious. Composing a resume and having mock interview sessions with a friend or relative is a great way to practice for an interview. After you’ve received the call for an interview, you now have the challenge of figuring out what to wear. The right outfit can make or break the interviewer’s opinion of you before you even speak.

Wear What You Mean

 

Many psychologists agree that close to 90 percent of what people remember about an encounter is related to nonverbal communication, a large portion of that being your overall appearance and demeanor. When people first meet, they immediately begin making judgments about each other based on appearances alone. In most cases, people make a decision about a stranger in less time than it takes to blink an eye. Many times, if that one moment is sqandered, you will have to work very hard to undo that first impression.

In job hunting first impressions are critical. Do research on the company and dress accordingly. Remember, dressing in casual clothing for an interview will not impress the employer. Dressing conservatively is usually the best choice because it will give the employer the thought that ‘you care about the way you dress; therefore you may care about doing a good job.’ Try not to overdo it.

Dressing too formal or under-dressing can send the wrong signal, as if you’re trying too hard or not trying hard enough. Again, do research before looking at wardrobe options or call the employer’s human resource department and ask what would be the appropriate dress for the department you’re interviewing for. For a company that is casual, choose a dressy casual attire such as khakis, button down shirt, leather belt and loafers.

What Not To Wear

Most people want to look their best when they go on an interview. There are certain things you should stay away from when choosing interview attire.

Spit it Out - no, gum chewing or candy.

Piercings - no visible body piercings such as nose and eyebrow rings.

Keep the change - no change in pockets or money bulges.

Bearded - no beards, because you could look ‘unkempt’ to the interviewer.

Rings - no rings other than wedding band or college ring.

Colored nails - no nail polish unless it is clear or conservative; nails should be groomed.

Earrings - women should wear one set of earrings only and men should not wear them at all.

Make it up - women should wear natural makeup that is not too noticeable.

Hose it down - wear hosiery with no runs.

Smell nice - avoid cologne, perfume, or after shave lotion that could be overpowering.

Cells - Turn the cell phone off. This could be distracting to you and the interviewer if a call comes in.

Purses - Clutches and purses should be left out.

Interview Attire For Women

1. Suits (gray, navy blue, or black) Make sure the skirt is at least knee length or below.
2. Hair combed and pulled up or back. If wearing hair losely make sure you check it in the mirror before interview.
3. Neutral hosiery for your skin tone is most appropriate. Bare legged is usually too casual.
4. Makeup and perfume should be kept to the minimal, or not worn at all.
5. Jewelry should be small and not gaudy.
6. Portfolio or briefcase in dark colors such as black.
7. Shoes should be a conservative height and clean.
8. Fingernails should be clean and manicured.

Interview Attire For Men

1. Suit (navy or dark gray).
2. Shirt should be long-sleeved in basic white or matching suit.
3. Socks - dark, no white or athletic socks.
4. Nails neatly trimmed.
5. Portfolio or briefcase in traditional black.
6. Hair and mustache groomed.
7. Belt in Leather.
8. Conservative tie - not a bow-tie.