1First impressions are made of visual and verbal cues, which can form within seconds of meeting someone. Many things can factor into a first impression, such as someone’s posture, facial expressions, voice intonations, handshake, eye contact, grooming, and dress. While these cues are not always an accurate portrayal of a person’s character and personality, they can give a good indication of who someone is.
Struggling to decide on an outfit for your upcoming job interview? What you wear to an interview creates an image or perception of the type of person you are, so choosing your attire is critical to presenting yourself as the right candidate to hire.
Hiring managers believe that people who dress appropriately for a job interview are more likely to be successful because they look the part. Conversely, those who dress inappropriately–too informal, for example–may be seen as having a more casual attitude toward work and authority, as well as possessing a lack of understanding of business etiquette.
Your appearance not only shows that you’re taking the opportunity seriously, that you are eager to make a good impression, and that you’d fit in nicely within the corporate culture; it can also communicate that you have respect for the interviewer.
Appropriate dress standards for business settings vary according to country, culture, and industry.
Tips to dress for positive impact
? The appropriate interview attire depends on the industry in which you’ll be interviewing, as well as the geographic location and time of year.
? Spend time on the Internet researching the company, industry and competitors to determine suitable interview outfits.
? Still not sure? Call the company’s HR department and ask what they recommend you wear.
? When in doubt, err on the side of being slightly over dressed, rather than showing up looking too casual.
? Ensure that your clothes are cleaned and pressed.
? Avoid wearing perfume or cologne. If you have body odour problem, spray mild deodorant on your body.
Men
? Necktie should be silk with a conservative pattern
? Dark shoes (black lace-ups are best)
? Dark socks (black is best)
? Get a haircut; short hair always fares best in interviews
? Fresh shave; moustaches are a possible negative, but if you must, make sure it is neat and trimmed
? No beards
? No rings other than wedding ring or college ring
? No earrings (if you normally wear one, take it out)
Women
? Wear a suit with a jacket and skirt or pants; no dresses
? Shoes with conservative heels
? Conservative hosiery at or near skin color
? No purses, small or large; carry a structured bag instead
? If you wear nail polish, use clear or a conservative color
? Keep your makeup simple and natural (it should not be too noticeable)
? No more than one ring on each hand
? One set of earrings only
One final note on interview dress: while it goes without saying that your interview clothes should be neat and clean, very few interviewees give the same time and attention to their shoes. Remember, many corporate recruiters form first impressions based solely on shoes.
