Professional/business attire is the standard for success and presenting yourself successfully in your career. Having the right attire is crucial for first impressions.
- In job-hunting, first impressions are critical. Remember, you are marketing yourself to a potential employer. The first thing the employer sees when greeting you is your attire.
- Dressing properly will give you a competitive edge and a positive first impression. According to Kim Zoller at Image Dynamics, 55% of another person’s perception of you is based on how you look.
- When interviewing, your goal should be to project the aspects of your personality that would be most desirable for an employer. A well-trimmed, neat exterior will tell your prospective employer that you are a conscientious, neat person.
- Remember: Campus fashions and work fashions usually are 2 different worlds. Dress accordingly!
How should you dress?
- Dressing conservatively is always the safest route. It makes sense to dress your best for the interview, regardless of the dress code at the organization.
If you are in need of professional attire, check out the Bottomless Closet & Dress for Success programs. - If you are in doubt about how to dress for an interview, it is best to err on the side of conservatism. It is much better to be overdressed than underdressed.
- Whatever your personal style may be, a job interview is not the place to show it off. The working world has its own set of standards that most professional environments support or respect. One of these standards is a conservative dress code.
- Avoid cologne/perfume or body lotions with a strong fragrance since your interviewer may be allergic.
- Select apparel jewelry, hairstyle, etc. that do not detract from your professional image. The interviewer’s attention should be focused on what you say and your qualifications.
- Be well groomed! No dandruff on your shoulders, no chipped or dirty fingernails.
- Remove facial and body piercings. Women can wear single ear jewelry.
- Visible tattoos should be covered to avoid distraction.
- Apparel should be clean, neatly pressed and fit well.
- Less is more. Keep your look simple and successful until you become accustomed to the environment and learn about the company’s dress code.
- Invest in a leather briefcase or portfolio in black or brown.
| Do | Don’t |
| Trim any facial hair, and keep your hair short and neat | Not style your hair, and leave it unruly/messy |
| Wear a suit, especially one in neutral colors | Wear casual clothes, like a t-shirt and sweatpants |
| Wear black or brown shoes in a plain toe or wing tipped style, either loafers or tie shoes for a more formal look | Wear sneakers, flip-flops, slippers |
| Skirt length should be a little below the knee and never shorter than above the knee | Wear scantily clad clothes that expose a lot of skin |
| Stockings are a must and should be flesh-toned or a similar color | Avoid color or patterns that would be distracting |
| Feel free to use a little bit of makeup or neutral nail polish | Avoid using these if you are working in a more conservative industry (I.e, medicine/nursing) |
| Remove jewelries and cover body markings/tattoos | Show off things that can cause a distraction |
| Keep it simple and clean | Wear flashy clothes that can also cause a distraction |
| Buy the best quality your money allows | Hesitate to re-wear a suit to different interviews |